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Sanitation Worker Salary in the United States

How much does a Sanitation Worker make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a Sanitation Worker in the United States is $39,232 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.

However, a Sanitation Worker's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $58,258
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $32,733 to $49,191
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $26,816
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Sanitation Worker Salaries

A Sanitation Worker's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Sanitation Worker Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Sanitation Workers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $43,438.
  • California: $43,273.
  • Massachusetts: $42,696.

Top Paying Cities for Sanitation Workers

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $49,483
  • San Francisco: $48,942
  • Oakland: $47,910

Sanitation Worker Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Sanitation Worker salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $43,023. While startup companies pay approximate $36,469.

Sanitation Worker Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $36,469
Growth Stage 51~500 $38,549
Established 501~5000 $41,556
Enterprise 5000+ $43,023

Sanitation Worker Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Sanitation Worker'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 October 01, 2026
$32,733
Average $39,232/year
$49,191
$2,728
Average $3,269/month
$4,099
$629
Average $754/week
$946
$16
Average $19/hour
$24
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $49,191 $4,099 $946 $24
Average $39,232 $3,269 $754 $19
25th Percentile $32,733 $2,728 $629 $16

Sanitation Worker Salary Growth & Career Path

Sanitation Worker

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Sanitation Worker, 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
Landfill Solid Waste Operator $49,667 27%
Sanitation Department Supervisor $82,995 112%

Most common benefits for Sanitation Worker

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Sanitation Worker

Here are companies hiring for Sanitation Worker and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Sanitation Worker

1. Where can a Sanitation Worker earn the most?

A Sanitation Worker's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Sanitation Worker earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Sanitation Worker is $49,483.

2. What is the highest pay for Sanitation Worker?

The highest pay for Sanitation Worker is $58,258.

3. What is the lowest pay for Sanitation Worker?

The lowest pay for Sanitation Worker is $26,816.

4. What are the responsibilities of Sanitation Worker?

Collects and removes solid waste and recyclable materials along assigned routes to maintain public cleanliness and sanitation. Collects household, commercial, and bulk waste and loads it into collection vehicles. Operates and rides collection trucks along designated routes. Empties containers and returns them to their proper locations. Separates recyclable materials in accordance with established procedures. Maintains cleanliness of collection areas and reports spills or hazards. Follows all safety procedures while working near traffic and operating equipment. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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