As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Bus Driver in the United States is $50,884 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, a Bus Driver's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Bus 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 Bus 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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Driver | 0-0 years | $50,884 |
| Limousine Chauffeur I | 0-1 years | $36,003 |
| Limousine Chauffeur II | 1-3 years | $42,247 |
| Limousine Chauffeur III | 3-5 years | $64,097 |
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 Bus Drivers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 19.59% |
| Logistics | 3.14% |
| Waste Management | 1.62% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Problem Solving
|
$53,428 |
5%
|
|
Leadership
|
$52,919 |
4%
|
|
Time Management
|
$52,919 |
4%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$52,411 |
3%
|
|
Written Communication
|
$51,393 |
1%
|
|
Customer Service
|
$51,393 |
1%
|
Understanding how a Bus 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 May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Bus Driver, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living Resident Driver | $40,223 | -21% |
| Limousine Chauffeur I | $36,003 | -29% |
| Vehicle Delivery Driver | $43,232 | -15% |
| School Bus Driver | $39,181 | -23% |
Salaries for a Bus Driver can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $57,990 in 2023 to around $56,126 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Bus Driver salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $57,990 |
| 2024 | $56,856 |
| 2025 | $56,126 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Bus Driver and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Bus Driver'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 Bus Driver earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Bus Driver is $64,180.
The highest pay for Bus Driver is $58,742.
The lowest pay for Bus Driver is $40,948.
Drives a bus or a motor coach on regular routes, chartered routes, or private tours. Assists passengers with boarding and luggage. Collects fares and tickets and makes correct change. Follows standard safety procedures and reports accidents to dispatch and proper authorities. May require a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically requires Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with passenger endorsement. Typically reports to a supervisor. Years of experience may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement.
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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