Average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary in Ames, IA
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Ames, IA, earn an average annual salary of $54,300. This figure is slightly below the national average of $58,380, reflecting localized economic factors and regional demand within Iowa. While the nominal pay is lower, the cost of living in Ames aligns perfectly with the national average, offering a balanced financial perspective.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $54,300 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $66,800.
- Outlook: Ames, IA supports a local workforce of 670 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers, with 11.972 jobs per 1,000 workers. The location quotient of 0.89 indicates a concentration of these roles that is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for trucking professionals within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Ames, IA earns-7.0%below the national average.
$26.1
$1,044
$4,525
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Ames, IA is not provided, the trucking industry nationwide has generally experienced salary growth over the past four years, driven by increased freight volumes and driver shortages. It is reasonable to assume that Ames has followed this broader trend, with potential for salary increases for experienced drivers.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
Salary progression for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Ames, IA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with extensive driving records and specialized certifications can command salaries significantly above the average. The gap between entry-level and senior-level pay often signifies substantial career growth and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $38,790 | $18.6 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $40,725 | $19.6 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $53,530 | $25.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $67,875 | $32.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $66,800 | $32.1 |
Detailed Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$54,300
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$54,300
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $54,300 in Ames, IA, is directly comparable to the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a truck driver's salary in Ames is equivalent to the national average, making it neither significantly more nor less affordable than other regions when considering essential expenses.
Job Market Context
670
Total Jobs
11.972
Per 1K Jobs
0.89
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 0.89x the national average concentration of Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
With a location quotient of 0.89, Ames, IA, has a slightly lower concentration of Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers compared to the national average. This suggests that while the profession is well-represented, the market is not oversaturated, potentially offering a balanced environment for job seekers and employers alike.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Ames, IA is $54,300. This typically ranges from $38,790 for entry-level positions to $66,800 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 7.0% lower than the national median of $58,380.
Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.The average salary of $54,300 is below the national average, though the cost of living is also at the national average, balancing out the financial appeal.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($52,970) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
What is the average salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver in Ames, IA?
The average annual salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver in Ames, IA is $54,300.
How does the Ames, IA salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Ames, IA ($54,300) is slightly lower than the national average of $58,380.
What is the cost of living in Ames, IA?
The cost of living index in Ames, IA is 100, which is exactly the national average.
How concentrated are truck driving jobs in Ames, IA?
The concentration of truck driving jobs in Ames, IA, indicated by a location quotient of 0.89, is slightly below the national average.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 670 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 11.972 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA