Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary in Detroit, MI

In Detroit, MI, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earn a median annual salary of $55,830, which translates to a median hourly wage of $26.84. This is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $57,440. When compared to the local household income in Detroit, where the area median is $75,123, truck drivers' earnings are approximately 74% of the typical household income. This indicates that while truck driving offers a respectable income, it falls short of matching the average financial standing of households within the city. The employment statistics show an estimated workforce of 26,140 individuals in this field, contributing to a local unemployment rate of 4.50%, which provides context for economic conditions affecting these workers.

Entry-level heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Detroit start with salaries around $38,100 annually, corresponding to the 10th percentile of earners in this profession. As experience is gained, earnings increase significantly; for example, those at the 25th percentile earn approximately $48,560 per year, while individuals in the 75th percentile make about $62,850. Top earners at the 90th percentile can expect to receive around $74,600 annually. The variation in salaries between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as years of experience, skill level, specialization within the industry (e.g., hazardous materials or long-haul trucking), and additional responsibilities or certifications that a driver may possess. These elements collectively influence career progression and compensation levels within this occupation.