Average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary in Tucson, AZ
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ earn an average annual salary of $52,860. This figure is notably below the national average of $58,380, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as demand and the cost of doing business, may influence compensation levels in the region. Factors specific to Tucson's economy and transportation infrastructure likely contribute to this pay differential.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $52,860 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $69,740.
- Outlook: Tucson, AZ supports a substantial workforce of 4,140 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers. The location quotient of 0.8 indicates that this profession is slightly less concentrated in Tucson compared to the national average. While not exceptionally high, this concentration, coupled with 10.719 jobs per 1,000 workers, suggests a steady, albeit not booming, demand for these essential roles within the local economy.
Salary Overview
The average Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ earns-9.5%below the national average.
$25.4
$1,017
$4,405
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Tucson is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that the trucking industry, like many others, has experienced fluctuations and general growth over the past four years. Salary trends for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers nationally have seen upward movement due to increased freight demand and driver shortages, and it is probable that Tucson's market has mirrored this trend to some extent, with incremental salary increases.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Distribution in Tucson, AZ
Salary progression for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ, like elsewhere, is typically tied to experience. Entry-level positions will command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with specialized endorsements or extensive driving records can expect significantly higher compensation. The variance between entry-level and senior-level pay, often reflected in salary percentiles, signifies clear career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential as drivers gain expertise and reliability.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $37,910 | $18.2 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $39,645 | $19.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $49,710 | $23.9 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $66,075 | $31.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $69,740 | $33.5 |
Detailed Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$52,860
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$52,860
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $52,860 for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of this salary in Tucson is equivalent to the national average. While the nominal salary is lower than the national average for the profession, the cost of living parity suggests that the take-home pay offers a comparable standard of living to that experienced in other parts of the country.
Job Market Context
4,140
Total Jobs
10.719
Per 1K Jobs
0.8
Location Quotient
Tucson, AZ has 0.80x 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 0.8, the market for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while there is a solid presence of these professionals, the job market may not be oversaturated. Employers might find it moderately competitive to attract top talent, but there is a stable base of available drivers, indicating a balanced supply and demand dynamic.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary | $49,390↓ 7% | 53 mi |
Comparing salaries near Tucson, AZ
Hiring Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driverss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers make in Tucson, AZ?
The median annual salary for a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Tucson, AZ is $52,860. This typically ranges from $37,910 for entry-level positions to $69,740 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Tucson, AZ is 9.5% lower than the national median of $58,380.
Is Tucson, AZ a lucrative place for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $52,860 is below the national average, although the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power comparable.
Is Tucson, AZ a good place to live for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
The Cost of Living Index in Tucson, AZ is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Tucson, AZ?
Some top paying nearby cities include Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ ($49,390) and others.
How does experience affect truck driver salaries in Tucson?
Experience is a significant factor; entry-level drivers earn less, while those with years of experience, specialized skills, and a clean driving record can command higher salaries, reflecting career progression.
Is the demand for truck drivers high in Tucson?
The demand is steady, with 10.719 jobs per 1,000 workers, indicating a consistent need for drivers, though the location quotient suggests it's not a primary hub for the profession.
What is the cost of living in Tucson, AZ for truck drivers?
The cost of living in Tucson is at the national average (index of 100), meaning that the $52,860 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary in a national average cost of living area.
How does Tucson's truck driver market compare to the national average?
Tucson's market is slightly less concentrated (LQ of 0.8) and offers a lower average salary ($52,860 vs. $58,380), but with a comparable cost of living, making it a moderately competitive market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 4,140 employees in the Tucson, AZ area with a job density of 10.719 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 Tucson, AZ