As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver I in the United States is $43,490 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.
However, a Light Cargo Truck Driver I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Light Cargo Truck Driver I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Light Cargo Truck Driver I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Light Cargo Truck Driver I | 0-1 years | $43,499 |
| Truck Driver II (CDL-B) | 1-3 years | $48,341 |
| Truck Driver III (CDL-B) | 3-5 years | $55,213 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Light Cargo Truck Driver Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Light Cargo Truck Driver I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $48,685. While startup companies pay approximate $41,186.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $41,186 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $43,559 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $47,014 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $48,685 |
For Light Cargo Truck Driver I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 70% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Pharmaceuticals and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 40% above the average. In contrast, Light Cargo Truck Driver positions in Software & Networking or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Light Cargo Truck Driver I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | $60,886 | $29.0 | 40% |
| Financial Services | $56,537 | $27.0 | 30% |
| Biotechnology | $52,188 | $25.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $52,188 | $25.0 | 20% |
| Healthcare | $50,013 | $24.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Light Cargo Truck Driver I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Light Cargo Truck Driver I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Driver II | $48,400 | 11% |
| Haul Truck Driver I | $60,200 | 38% |
| Commercial Truck Driver II | $53,740 | 24% |
| Truck Driver II (CDL-B) | $48,390 | 11% |
Salaries for a Light Cargo Truck Driver I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $44,693 in 2023 to around $43,134 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Light Cargo Truck Driver I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $44,693 |
| 2024 | $43,835 |
| 2025 | $43,134 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Pharmaceuticals industry offers the highest average compensation for Light Cargo Truck Driver I roles, with salaries approximately 40% above the market median.
The salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver in the USA ranges from $37,990 to $48,490 annually. This translates to an hourly rate between approximately $18.25 and $23.29, depending on experience and location. The average salary is around $43,090, which equates to about $20.73 per hour.
The state that typically pays truck drivers the most offers salaries that can range from a minimum of $37,990 to a mid-level of $43,090, with top earners making up to $48,490. Factors such as demand, cost of living, and regional economic conditions can influence these salary figures significantly.
The lowest salary for a Light Cargo Truck Driver is $37,990. The average salary is around $43,090, with the highest earning potential reaching $48,490. These figures reflect the current market for truck drivers, providing a clear overview of the salary range in this profession.
Yes, truck drivers are in high demand in the USA due to the constant need for goods and services. The trucking industry plays a crucial role in transporting everything from food to building materials. Light cargo truck drivers can expect salaries ranging from $37,990 to $48,490, reflecting the essential nature of their work in meeting consumer needs.
Walmart truck drivers can earn competitive salaries, but the average for light cargo truck drivers ranges from $37,990 to $48,490 annually. While some drivers may reach higher earnings, the typical salary is significantly lower than $100,000. It's essential to consider the specific role and location when evaluating potential earnings.
Cargo truck drivers in the US typically earn between $37,990 and $48,490 annually, with a median salary of $43,090. This range reflects the varying levels of experience and job responsibilities within the industry.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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