How Much Do Commercial Truck Drivers Make in Vermont?

Vermont’s trucking industry keeps key sectors moving — from dairy farms and logging operations to regional trade with Canada. With steady freight demand, safe road networks, and strong employer support, Vermont is a great place to begin or grow your CDL career. Here's what truck drivers earn in Vermont — and how CDL eXpert can help you take the first step.

Average Truck Driver Salaries in Vermont

Truck driver pay in Vermont varies based on your experience, freight type, endorsements, and region. Based on recent Vermont job listings (2024–2025) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, here's what CDL drivers are earning:

• Entry-Level Drivers – New CDL holders in Vermont typically start at $44,000–$52,000 annually. Employers like Casella Waste Systems and Green Mountain Messenger actively hire new grads.

• Experienced Drivers – With 3–5 years of driving, pay increases to $60,000–$75,000 a year.

• Class A CDL Drivers – Drivers handling regional or long-haul freight across New England and into Quebec average $68,000–$85,000.

• Owner-Operators – Independent contractors based in Vermont report gross revenues of $150,000 to $220,000+, depending on cross-border work, fuel costs, and contracts.

Check out our article on the cost of obtaining your CDL in Vermont to learn more.

Top-Paying Regions for Truck Drivers in Vermont

Wages vary slightly based on freight volume, proximity to borders, and population density. Top-paying zones include:

• Burlington Metro Area – With access to I-89 and I-189, plus cross-border logistics, salaries here often reach $70,000–$90,000.

• St. Albans & Northwestern Vermont – A hub for U.S.–Canada trade, especially refrigerated and agricultural freight. Local companies like McDermotts and J&B International support wages of $68,000–$85,000.

• Brattleboro & Southeastern Vermont – Distribution companies in this region offer jobs in the $62,000–$80,000 range.

• Barre & Central Vermont – Local and regional drivers in this area earn around $60,000–$75,000, depending on freight type.

High-Paying Industries for CDL Drivers in Vermont

To maximize earnings, Vermont CDL drivers often focus on these industries:

• Dairy & Refrigerated Transport – Vermont’s dairy industry (with major producers like Cabot and Agri-Mark) creates strong demand for reefer drivers with consistent year-round pay.

• Timber & Logging Freight – Vermont’s northern counties support log hauling and sawmill freight. Flatbed and heavy-haul experience increases wages.

• HazMat & Tanker Work – Drivers moving propane, heating oil, or chemicals earn 10–25% more, especially with winter demand and the right endorsements.

• Waste & Recycling – Regional employers like Casella Waste offer steady, above-average pay for CDL drivers handling roll-off and front-load routes.

• Construction Freight – Local infrastructure upgrades create seasonal demand for equipment haulers and dump truck drivers.

What Affects CDL Driver Pay in Vermont?

Your income as a Vermont trucker depends on:

• Experience Level – New drivers earn less but can quickly increase pay after 12–24 months.

• Endorsements – HazMat (H), Tanker (N), Doubles/Triples (T), and TWIC credentials unlock higher-paying loads.

• Route Type – Long-haul and cross-border work (e.g., to Quebec or Ontario) pays more than local deliveries.

• Freight Type – Reefer, bulk tankers, and heavy equipment loads all increase pay potential.

How to Boost Your Earnings as a CDL Driver in Vermont

Use these tips to earn more in Vermont's trucking industry:

• Add Endorsements – HazMat and Tanker are in high demand, especially in winter.

• Choose High-Demand Freight – Work in dairy, timber, or fuel hauling to access premium rates.

• Apply for Bonus-Paying Jobs – Vermont companies frequently offer sign-on bonuses ($1,500–$5,000) and performance incentives.

• Consider OTR or Regional Routes – Longer runs and border-crossing routes offer higher per-mile pay.

• Become an Owner-Operator – With a base in Vermont, O/Os can tap into cross-regional contracts across the Northeast and Quebec.

Why Trucking Is a Stable Career in Vermont

Vermont depends heavily on trucking to support agriculture, forestry, fuel delivery, and tourism logistics. Many companies offer consistent year-round work, especially those in refrigerated and cross-border freight.

The state’s proximity to New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, and Canada makes it ideal for both intrastate and regional hauls. Infrastructure updates and strong local economies further secure long-term demand for CDL drivers.

How CDL eXpert Helps You Succeed in Vermont

We provide everything you need to start strong and stay successful:

• FMCSA-Approved ELDT Training – Online courses for Class A and B CDL applicants that meet all federal standards.

• Flexible Online Learning – Train from anywhere in Vermont on your own schedule using your phone or computer.

• Job Placement Help – We support you with job-search guidance and connect graduates with Vermont employers actively hiring CDL drivers.

• Affordable Pricing – Our course is just $49.95, and we help you find grants, payment plans, and possible employer sponsorships.

Take the first step toward a new career with CDL eXpert — the affordable path to a high-paying trucking job in Vermont.

FAQs

What’s the average salary for truck drivers in Vermont? 

CDL drivers earn between $44,000 and $85,000 annually, with owner-operators and endorsed drivers earning more.

Which Vermont cities pay the most for truckers? 

Burlington, St. Albans, and Brattleboro offer the highest salaries due to freight volume, cross-border trade, and logistics centers.

How do I earn more as a driver in Vermont? 

Earn endorsements, focus on high-paying freight like dairy or HazMat, and take longer regional routes when possible.