Salary distribution
Where San Diego heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $47,820 and $65,800, with a median of $59,480.
Typical entry
Education
Postsecondary nondegree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
Short-term on-the-job training
Top skills (O*NET)
- 4.1 / 5
Far Vision
Ability
- 4.0 / 5
Transportation
Knowledge
- 3.9 / 5
Control Precision
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Spatial Orientation
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Response Orientation
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Rate Control
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Multilimb Coordination
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Follow appropriate safety procedures for transporting dangerous goods.
- 02
Secure cargo for transport, using ropes, blocks, chain, binders, or covers.
- 03
Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.
- 04
Inspect loads to ensure that cargo is secure.
- 05
Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order.
- 06
Crank trailer landing gear up or down to safely secure vehicles.
- 07
Obtain receipts or signatures for delivered goods and collect payment for services when required.
- 08
Maintain logs of working hours or of vehicle service or repair status, following applicable state and federal regulations.
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Explore coursesOther metros in California
How the San Diego metro compares to other major California metro areas for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.
- San Jose$65,540
- San Francisco$64,210
- Riverside$60,680
- Sacramento$60,630
- Los Angeles$59,560
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in San Diego, California?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in the San Diego metropolitan area is $59,480.
- Does San Diego pay more than the California state average for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
- The San Diego metro median is -0.8% versus the California state median of $59,950.
- How does San Diego compare to the national median for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
- The San Diego metro median is +5.7% versus the BLS national figure of $56,248.
- What is the salary range for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in San Diego?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $38,270 and the 90th-percentile at $78,070 for the San Diego metro area.
- What education is required for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Postsecondary nondegree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the San Diego CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.