Bus Drivers, School Salary in Indianapolis, IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood, IN

Median annual salary $47,910 +1.8% vs national
Median hourly $23.03
10th percentile $23,750
90th percentile $64,600
Employed locally 3,650
National median $47,040

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Bus Drivers, School
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Indianapolis, IN
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    In Indianapolis, Indiana, school bus drivers typically earn a median annual salary of $47,910, which is slightly above the national median of $47,040 for this occupation. This figure translates to an average hourly wage of approximately $23.03. When compared to the local area's median household income of $77,065, the earnings of school bus drivers account for about 62% of a typical household's income in the region. Despite earning less than many other professions within Indianapolis, this salary provides a modest but necessary contribution to family finances, especially considering the relatively low unemployment rate of 3.80%.

    Entry-level school bus drivers in Indianapolis generally earn closer to the 10th percentile mark at $23,750 annually, reflecting lower experience and potentially part-time status. In contrast, more experienced workers may reach earnings up to or exceeding the 75th percentile, which is around $60,800 per year. This significant salary difference is primarily driven by factors such as years of service, additional qualifications, and possibly union negotiations or seniority-based pay increases. The disparity in income between entry-level and seasoned drivers underscores the value placed on experience and reliability within this occupation, influencing overall career progression and financial stability for those committed to long-term employment in the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $23,750
    25th
    $31,950
    50th (median)
    $47,910
    75th
    $60,800
    90th
    $64,600

    Indianapolis economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $77,065 2023 • Census ACS
    Bus Drivers, School salary vs area income 62% Median Bus Drivers, School salary is 38% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Bus Drivers, School make per hour in Indianapolis?

    The median hourly wage for Bus Drivers, School in Indianapolis, IN is $23.03, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $31.42 or more per hour.

    Is Indianapolis above or below average for Bus Drivers, School salaries?

    The median Bus Drivers, School salary in Indianapolis, IN is 1.8% above the national median of $47,040. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Bus Drivers, School in Indianapolis?

    Entry-level Bus Drivers, School (10th percentile) earn around $23,750 per year in Indianapolis, IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $31,950.