SalaryNode

Average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary in Modesto, CA

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Modesto, CA, earn an average annual salary of $56,090. This figure is slightly below the national average of $58,380, suggesting that while demand exists, local economic factors or specific industry concentrations may influence compensation levels. Understanding these nuances is key for drivers considering Modesto as a career destination.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $56,090 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 28.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $76,720.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 3,630 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers, Modesto demonstrates a significant concentration of these professionals. The Location Quotient of 1.39 indicates that this occupation is more prevalent in Modesto than the national average, suggesting a robust and potentially stable job market for truck drivers in the region.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$56,090

The average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Modesto, CA earns-3.9%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$27

Weekly

$1,079

Monthly

$4,674

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Distribution in Modesto, CA

Salary progression for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Modesto, CA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with extensive driving records and specialized endorsements can command salaries in the upper percentiles. These percentile gaps are a clear indicator of career advancement opportunities and the value placed on expertise within the local trucking industry.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$37,720$18.1
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$42,068$20.2
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$52,720$25.3
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$70,113$33.7
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$76,720$36.9

Detailed Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$56,090

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$56,090

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $56,090 in Modesto, CA, aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living, indicated by an index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a truck driver's salary in Modesto is comparable to the national average, making it a financially neutral location from a cost-of-living perspective.

Job Market Context

3,630

Total Jobs

18.661

Per 1K Jobs

1.39

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.39, Modesto, CA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers roles compared to the national norm.

Modesto's Location Quotient of 1.39 signifies a higher concentration of Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive job market where employers may actively seek experienced drivers, but also indicates a strong presence of trucking-related businesses and infrastructure, potentially leading to more job opportunities.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driverss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers make in Modesto, CA?

The median annual salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Modesto, CA is $56,090. This typically ranges from $37,720 for entry-level positions to $76,720 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Modesto, CA is 3.9% lower than the national median of $58,380.

Is Modesto, CA a lucrative place for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?

No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.While Modesto has a higher concentration of truck drivers (LQ of 1.39), the average salary of $56,090 is slightly below the national average of $58,380. The cost of living is also at the national average, offering no additional purchasing power advantage.

Is Modesto, CA a good place to live for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?

The Cost of Living Index in Modesto, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Modesto, CA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Stockton-Lodi, CA ($61,370) and Merced, CA.

What is the average salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver in Modesto, CA?

The average annual salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver in Modesto, CA is $56,090.

How does Modesto's truck driver salary compare to the national average?

The average salary in Modesto ($56,090) is slightly lower than the national average ($58,380).

Is the cost of living high in Modesto, CA for truck drivers?

No, Modesto's cost of living index is 100, which is exactly the national average, meaning it is neither particularly high nor low.

Are there many truck driving jobs in Modesto, CA?

Yes, Modesto has a higher concentration of truck drivers than the national average, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.39, suggesting a robust job market.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 3,630 employees in the Modesto, CA area with a job density of 18.661 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.