Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators Salary in Denver, CO

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO

Median annual salary $48,540 +4.6% vs national
Median hourly $23.34
10th percentile $42,800
90th percentile $63,710
Employed locally 5,370
National median $46,390

Compare Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators salary & buying power

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Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
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    In Denver, CO, Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators earn a median annual salary of $48,540, which is higher than the national median of $46,390 for this occupation. On an hourly basis, these workers typically earn $23.34, reflecting their critical role in material handling and logistics operations across various industries. When compared to the local household income, the earnings of Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators represent approximately 47% of the area's median household income of $102,339. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap between typical worker earnings and average household incomes within Denver, suggesting that these operators, while earning above the national median for their occupation, may still face economic challenges in affording the higher cost of living prevalent in the region.

    For Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators in Denver, entry-level positions are typically compensated closer to the 10th percentile salary of $42,800 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can expect earnings at or above the 75th percentile, which stands at $59,260 per year, with top earners reaching up to the 90th percentile at approximately $63,710. The pay gap between entry-level and seasoned operators is primarily driven by factors such as experience, skill level, certifications in operating specialized machinery, and overtime opportunities. As these workers gain more experience and possibly acquire additional qualifications, their value increases, leading to higher wages that reflect the enhanced efficiency and safety they bring to their roles within the logistics and transportation sectors.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $42,800
    25th
    $45,250
    50th (median)
    $48,540
    75th
    $59,260
    90th
    $63,710

    Denver economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,339 2023 • Census ACS
    Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators salary vs area income 47% Median Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators salary is 53% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators make per hour in Denver?

    The median hourly wage for Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators in Denver, CO is $23.34, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $31.90 or more per hour.

    Is Denver above or below average for Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators salaries?

    The median Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators salary in Denver, CO is 4.6% above the national median of $46,390. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators in Denver?

    Entry-level Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators (10th percentile) earn around $42,800 per year in Denver, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $45,250.