Kentucky vs. national heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver wages
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median annual wage | $45,086 | $54,320 | -17% |
| Mean annual wage | $49,327 | $59,430 | -17% |
| Take-home (single filer) | $36,603 | — | after all 2026 taxes |
Kentucky median derived from BLS OEWS May 2024 national figure adjusted by state wage pattern.
Take-home breakdown for $45,086 in Kentucky
Annual deductions
- Federal income tax
- −$3,230
- Kentucky state income tax
- −$1,803
- FICA (SS + Medicare)
- −$3,449
- Total taxes
- −$8,483
Your paycheck
- Annual net
- $36,603
- Monthly net
- $3,050
- Bi-weekly net
- $1,408
- Hourly equivalent
- $17.60/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 Kentucky 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 $45,086 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in Kentucky?›
On a $45,086 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in Kentucky, take-home pay is approximately $36,603/year ($3,050/month, $1,408/bi-weekly). That accounts for $3,230 in federal income tax, 1,803 in Kentucky state income tax, and $3,449 in FICA. The effective tax rate is 18.8%.
Highest-paying states for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Want to model your own salary?
Open the Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver + Kentucky combo in the full calculator. Pre-filled with $45,086. Adjust filing status, 401(k), and other deductions.