As of February 01, 2026, the average salary for a Public Transport Driver in the United States is $50,900 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, a Public Transport Driver's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Public Transport Driver'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 Public Transport Driver'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Public Transport Driver | 0-0 years | $50,881 |
| Chauffeur I | 0-1 years | $35,993 |
| Chauffeur II | 1-3 years | $42,247 |
| Chauffeur III | 3-5 years | $64,119 |
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 Public Transport Drivers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 19.59% |
| Logistics | 3.14% |
| Waste Management | 1.62% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Products and Services
|
$60,571 |
19%
|
|
Waste Management
|
$60,062 |
18%
|
|
Container
|
$58,026 |
14%
|
|
Logistics
|
$57,517 |
13%
|
|
Service Delivery
|
$55,481 |
9%
|
|
Customer Satisfaction
|
$54,972 |
8%
|
Understanding how a Public Transport Driver'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 February 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Public Transport Driver, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Driver | $40,300 | -21% |
| Chauffeur I | $36,000 | -29% |
| Auto Delivery Driver | $43,300 | -15% |
| School Bus Driver (CDL-S or CDL-P) | $39,200 | -23% |
Salaries for a Public Transport Driver can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $57,990 in 2023 to around $56,126 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Public Transport Driver salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $57,990 |
| 2024 | $56,856 |
| 2025 | $56,126 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Transport truck drivers in the US typically earn between $39,600 and $51,600 annually, with a mid-salary of around $45,600. This reflects a competitive wage in the industry, providing a solid income for those in this profession. Salary data is based on various sources and reflects current market trends.
Bus drivers often face challenges related to compensation. With a minimum salary of $39,600, a mid-range salary of $45,600, and a maximum of $51,600, many argue that this pay does not reflect the demands of the job. The disparity in earnings compared to other professions contributes to ongoing driver shortages and dissatisfaction within the industry.
The highest pay for a public transport driver typically ranges from $39,600 to $51,600 annually, with a mid-salary of $45,600. While specific city salaries vary, these figures provide a general benchmark for earnings in this profession across the United States.
No, bus drivers cannot make $100,000 a year. The salary range for public transport drivers is between $39,600 and $51,600 annually, with a mid-salary of $45,600. Even in higher-paid positions, earnings do not typically exceed this range.
Taxi drivers in the US earn between $39,600 and $51,600 annually, with a median salary of $45,600. Entry-level positions typically start at $39,600, while experienced drivers can earn up to $51,600 per year. This reflects a more accurate range for taxi driver salaries compared to previous estimates.
The highest paying job varies by field, but for public transport drivers, salaries range from a minimum of $39,600 to a maximum of $51,600, with a mid-salary of $45,600. While this may not compare to top-tier professions like anesthesiologists or orthodontists, it offers a stable income within the transportation sector.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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