Truck Drivers Salary in California (CA) in 2026

Truck driver salary in California

Truck drivers in California earn strong wages because the state has a large economy and its ports operate continuously and its agricultural sector produces high volumes and the region needs both regional and interstate freight delivery. The salary range for truck drivers in California starts at 55,000 dollars for entry-level positions and reaches 90,000 dollars for experienced drivers while specialized drivers and owner-operators can earn up to 126,000 dollars per year.

The trucking market in California operates through three main freight systems which include port freight from Los Angeles and Long Beach and Central Valley agricultural hauling and high-volume regional distribution. The pay rates for drivers who operate long-haul routes and port drayage and specialized freight transportation reach their highest level in the industry.

Truck drivers average salary in California

Truck drivers in California earn annual salaries that range from $55,000 to $90,000 based on their experience and the type of routes they drive and the freight they handle. Entry-level drivers start their careers by working on local routes or short regional routes while experienced CDL drivers gain advantages from high freight volume and steady freight needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical salary for truck drivers in California:

Driver Type / Experience	Average Monthly Pay	Average Annual Salary
Entry-Level CDL Driver (Limited experience, mostly local routes)	$4,600 – $5,000	$55,000 – $60,000
Experienced CDL Driver (Regional or OTR routes)	$7,000 – $7,500	$84,000 – $90,000
Class A CDL (Long-Haul, Interstate u0026 dedicated lanes)	$7,200 – $8,200	$86,000 – $98,000
Owner-Operator (After expenses, varies widely)	$8,000 – $10,500	$96,000 – $126,000
Specialized Freight (Hazmat, Tanker)	$7,800 – $10,500	$94,000 – $126,000

How Much Does a Class A CDL Driver Get Paid in CA?

In California, drivers holding a Class A CDL license drive tractor-trailers through interstate highways and port facilities and agricultural areas and urban centers. The combination of ongoing traffic gridlock and essential operational regulations and elevated freight transportation demand results in higher salary rates for Class A CDL drivers throughout California when compared to nationwide salary averages. A Class A CDL driver in California earns between $86,000 and $98,000 per year while experienced drivers who haul specialized freight or operate long-haul routes can make more than $100,000 each year.

Remember

How much does a truck driver in California make annually? In general, salaries of California big rig drivers usually range between $55,000 and $90,000, with salaries of the highest earners being as high as $126,000.
Big rig drivers in California usually earn above the national average due to high freight volumes, port activity, agricultural demand, and strict regulatory requirements.
Beginning drivers are often paid near the lower end of the range at around $55,000, while specially trained drivers and owner-operator positions can earn up to $126,000 or more per year.
How much can a Class A CDL driver expect to bring in? Most Class A CDL drivers in California earn between $86,000 and $98,000 annually depending on the route and experience.

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