California vs. national heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver wages
| Metric | California | National | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median annual wage | $67,900 | $54,320 | +25% |
| Mean annual wage | $74,288 | $59,430 | +25% |
| Take-home (single filer) | $54,053 | — | after all 2026 taxes |
California median derived from BLS OEWS May 2024 national figure adjusted by state wage pattern.
Take-home breakdown for $67,900 in California
Annual deductions
- Federal income tax
- −$6,108
- California state income tax
- −$2,544
- FICA (SS + Medicare)
- −$5,194
- Total taxes
- −$13,847
Your paycheck
- Annual net
- $54,053
- Monthly net
- $4,504
- Bi-weekly net
- $2,079
- Hourly equivalent
- $25.99/hr
Assumes single filer, no pre-tax deductions, standard deduction, 2026 IRS brackets. Use the full calculator for filing-status adjustments, 401(k) contributions, and other pre-tax items.
About this occupation
Drives a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds to transport and deliver goods over long distances.
Outlook (2023-2033)
+4% (2023-2033, about average)
Typical Education
High school diploma + CDL (Commercial Driver's License)
BLS SOC Code
53-3032
Frequently asked questions
How much does a truck driver make in in California in 2026?›
The national median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $54,320 in May 2024 (BLS OEWS). With 2026 tax rules, take-home pay runs roughly $43,000-$46,000 depending on state. Owner-operators and long-haul OTR drivers can earn $80K-$100K+.
Which states pay truck drivers the most?›
Alaska ($70K median), New York ($65K), Massachusetts ($62K), Washington ($62K), and Illinois ($60K) lead the country. High pay tracks to remote routes, port cities, and high cost-of-living areas.
Is truck driving a good career in 2026?›
Stable demand. BLS projects 4% growth through 2033 (about average), with persistent driver shortages supporting wages. The biggest disruption is autonomous trucking, which is still years away from broad adoption.
What is the take-home pay on a $67,900 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in California?›
On a $67,900 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in California, take-home pay is approximately $54,053/year ($4,504/month, $2,079/bi-weekly). That accounts for $6,108 in federal income tax, 2,544 in California state income tax, and $5,194 in FICA. The effective tax rate is 20.4%.
Highest-paying states for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Want to model your own salary?
Open the Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver + California combo in the full calculator. Pre-filled with $67,900. Adjust filing status, 401(k), and other deductions.