Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, bus drivers in the transit and intercity sectors earn a median annual salary of $64,040, which is higher than the national median for this occupation at $57,440. This reflects the competitive pay within this region compared to other parts of the country. When comparing these earnings with the local area's median household income of $123,896, it becomes apparent that bus drivers earn a significant portion—approximately 51.7%—of what is typical for households in this locale. This indicates a substantial contribution to household incomes, suggesting that many families may rely on such roles as key financial contributors.

At the entry-level, earnings are considerably lower than those of experienced workers. Individuals at the 10th percentile earn about $47,930 annually, while those at the 25th percentile make around $51,650, indicating a modest starting wage for newcomers to the field. Conversely, experienced bus drivers can earn substantially more, with those at the 75th percentile earning approximately $80,020 and those in the top 10% reaching incomes as high as $90,650 annually. The disparity between entry-level and experienced workers' salaries is driven by factors such as tenure, specialized skills, routes or shifts that require extra qualifications, and performance incentives. These elements underscore the potential for salary growth within this occupation over time, reflecting the value of experience and expertise in this field.