Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary in Knoxville, TN

In Knoxville, TN, the typical heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver earns a median annual salary of $56,630, with an hourly wage of approximately $27.23. This figure is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $57,440. When compared to the local household income in Knoxville, the average earnings for these drivers are lower than the area's median household income of $69,734. This disparity highlights that a significant portion of truck drivers may not earn enough to match the typical household financial standard within the region.

Entry-level heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Knoxville generally earn around $38,370 annually, placing them at the 10th percentile, while those more experienced can see earnings rise significantly, with the 75th percentile making about $72,840 per year. The difference between entry-level and seasoned workers is primarily driven by factors such as accumulated experience, skills, tenure in the role, regional demand for drivers, and specific company or employer incentives. Experienced drivers may also have opportunities to take on more complex routes or loads that command higher pay rates, contributing further to the salary disparity observed within this occupation.