How Much Do Commercial Truck Drivers Make in Tennessee?

Tennessee is one of the Southeast’s busiest trucking states—home to major distribution hubs, manufacturing centers, and key interstate routes that connect the South, Midwest, and East Coast. From Memphis to Nashville to Knoxville, CDL drivers are in demand across a wide range of industries.

Whether you're launching a new career or making a fresh start, trucking in Tennessee offers strong pay, steady work, and opportunities to grow. Here's everything you need to know about truck driver salaries in Tennessee—and how CDL eXpert can help you get started quickly and affordably.

What Do Truck Drivers Earn in Tennessee?

Pay in Tennessee varies by experience, endorsements, and the type of freight you haul. Here’s what most truckers can expect:

• Entry-Level Drivers – New CDL holders typically start at $43,000 to $52,000 per year.

• Experienced Drivers – With several years on the road, salaries climb to $56,000 to $75,000 annually.

• Class A CDL Drivers – Long-haul and specialized freight drivers can earn $65,000 to $90,000+.

• Owner-Operators – Independent drivers based in Tennessee often earn $160,000 to $250,000+, depending on routes and operating costs.

Endorsements like HazMat, Tanker, and Doubles/Triples are highly valuable in Tennessee and can increase your pay by 10–30%. Check out our article on the cost of obtaining your CDL in Tennessee to learn more.

Top-Paying Areas for Truck Drivers in Tennessee

Some Tennessee regions offer higher pay due to freight traffic, port access, and logistics demand. These are the top-paying areas for CDL drivers:

Memphis – One of the nation’s largest freight hubs, thanks to FedEx, intermodal rail, and I-40/I-55 access. Drivers here can earn $65,000 to $95,000, especially in regional and OTR roles.

Nashville – A fast-growing metro with strong retail and construction freight. Salaries typically range from $60,000 to $88,000 per year.

Chattanooga – A major logistics and warehousing center located on I-75, where truckers earn between $58,000 and $82,000.

Knoxville – With I-40 access and steady regional routes, CDL drivers can make $57,000 to $80,000 annually.

Jackson & Clarksville – These cities offer access to interstate freight with driver pay ranging from $55,000 to $78,000.

Tennessee’s central location and extensive interstate system make it ideal for regional and OTR drivers who want to stay busy and earn more.

Industries That Pay Truck Drivers the Most in Tennessee

Tennessee’s economy includes manufacturing, automotive, warehousing, and agriculture—all of which depend on commercial trucking. These industries offer some of the best pay:

Distribution & Warehousing – Tennessee is a hub for companies like Amazon, Walmart, and FedEx. Local and regional routes tied to warehousing offer great pay.

Automotive & Parts Transport – Nissan, General Motors, and Volkswagen all operate in Tennessee, creating high-paying freight jobs for flatbed and dry van drivers.

Hazardous Materials & Fuel – Hauling chemicals, fuels, and compressed gases requires a HazMat endorsement and typically pays more.

Refrigerated & Food Freight – Tennessee's role in grocery and restaurant distribution drives demand for reefer-certified drivers.

Construction & Building Materials – Flatbed haulers moving heavy equipment or supplies for infrastructure projects can earn strong pay in fast-growing areas.

What Affects Truck Driver Pay in Tennessee?

These factors will impact your earning potential:

• Experience – More time on the road equals access to higher-paying opportunities.

• CDL Endorsements – HazMat, Tanker, and Doubles/Triples unlock better-paying jobs.

• Freight Type – Specialized loads (e.g., fuel, oversized cargo) offer premium rates.

• Route Type – Regional and OTR drivers tend to earn more than local delivery drivers.

How to Boost Your CDL Pay in Tennessee

If you want to maximize your income, here’s how to earn more as a trucker in Tennessee:

• Earn Endorsements – HazMat and Tanker can significantly increase job options and pay.

• Choose High-Demand Freight – Focus on freight tied to manufacturing, retail logistics, or hazardous materials.

• Go Regional or OTR – Tennessee’s central location means higher mileage potential for long-haul drivers.

• Look for Bonuses – Many employers offer sign-on, performance, and safety bonuses.

• Consider Owner-Operator Work – With high freight volumes and access to interstate lanes, independent drivers can do well here.

Is Trucking a Good Career in Tennessee?

Without a doubt. Tennessee is one of the top freight states in the country. The state’s strong infrastructure, multiple Class I railroads, and proximity to 75% of the U.S. population within a day’s drive make it a prime location for commercial drivers.

With high job demand, strong wages, and diverse freight opportunities, trucking offers a stable and high-paying career path—no college degree required.

Start Your Trucking Career in Tennessee with CDL eXpert

CDL eXpert makes it simple to start your CDL journey, even if you have no experience. We help you get certified fast and connect you with high-paying job opportunities across Tennessee.

• FMCSA-Registered ELDT Training – Fully compliant with federal entry-level driver training regulations.

• 100% Online and Mobile-Friendly – Learn from your phone, tablet, or laptop—on your schedule.

• Instant Certification – Your results are submitted directly to the FMCSA when you finish.

• Job Placement Support – We help match you with Tennessee-based employers hiring now.

• Flexible Payment Options – Scholarships, grants, and payment plans make CDL training accessible and affordable.

Take Control of Your Career in Tennessee

Whether you're in Memphis, Nashville, or a smaller town, trucking is one of the most dependable and profitable career choices you can make. CDL eXpert will help you every step of the way.

Enroll today and start building your future in Tennessee’s booming trucking industry.

FAQs

What’s the average salary for truck drivers in Tennessee? Most drivers earn between $43,000 and $90,000, depending on experience, freight, and route type.

Which cities pay the most? Memphis, Nashville, and Chattanooga offer the highest pay, especially for regional and OTR drivers.

What industries offer the most freight? Warehousing, manufacturing, food distribution, and hazardous materials are top sectors in Tennessee.

How do I get started? Sign up for CDL eXpert’s ELDT training today. It’s online, fast, and includes job placement help so you can start earning sooner.