As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Sanitation Truck Driver in the United States is $61,212 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.
However, a Sanitation Truck Driver's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Sanitation Truck 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 Sanitation Truck 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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Sanitation Truck Driver | $58,914 |
| Intermediate Level Sanitation Truck Driver | $59,881 |
| Senior Level Sanitation Truck Driver | $62,470 |
| Specialist Level Sanitation Truck Driver | $64,147 |
| Expert Level Sanitation Truck Driver | $64,357 |
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 Sanitation Truck Drivers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Sanitation Truck Driver roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 35% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Healthcare sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 15% above the average. In contrast, Sanitation Truck Driver positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Sanitation Truck Driver as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace & Defense | $70,393 | $34.0 | 15% |
| Healthcare | $70,393 | $34.0 | 15% |
| Telecom | $67,945 | $33.0 | 11% |
| Biotechnology | $67,333 | $32.0 | 10% |
| Chemicals | $67,333 | $32.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Sanitation Truck 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 August 01, 2026Salaries for a Sanitation Truck Driver can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $48,989 in 2023 to around $47,366 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Sanitation Truck Driver salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $48,989 |
| 2024 | $47,882 |
| 2025 | $47,366 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Sanitation Truck Driver roles, with salaries approximately 15% above the market median.
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