Truck Driver salary in Charlotte, NC
Median pay, Charlotte metro
$56,120/year
about $26.98 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $47,600 – $64,440
Half of truck drivers in the Charlotte metro area earn more than $56,120 a year and half earn less. That's 4% lower than the national median of $58,640, and ranks #26 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $44,240 | $21.27 |
| 25th | $47,600 | $22.88 |
| Median (50th) | $56,120 | $26.98 |
| 75th | $64,440 | $30.98 |
| 90th (top earners) | $77,490 | $37.25 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a truck driver job in the Charlotte metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $47,600 ($22.88/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $47,600 to $64,440 ($22.88 to $30.98/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $64,440 ($30.98/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Many drivers are paid per mile, so ask about typical weekly miles, not just the rate per mile.
- Ask how much home time you'll get and whether detention and layover time is paid.
- Lease-purchase offers can shift costs to the driver. Read the details carefully.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, Charlotte metro. Occupation: Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (SOC 53-3032). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.