In Chicago, IL, Truck Drivers earn a median of $61,060 a year — about 9% above the U.S. median of $55,990. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #8.
What that pay is worth in Chicago
Local prices run 104 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $62,320 salary buys less than it looks — about $60,157 in national-average buying power.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 — 5.1 times the average Truck Driver salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,380/mo takes roughly 27% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Truck Driver pay ladder in Chicago
Entry-level (10th percentile) Truck Drivers earn about $37,280; the top 10% reach $87,120 — a $49,840 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Truck Driver job market in Chicago
Chicago employs roughly 63,010 Truck Drivers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Chicago with other cities
See the full Truck Driver salary by city ranking to weigh Chicago against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Truck Drivers make in Chicago?
The average Truck Driver in Chicago, IL earns about $62,320 per year, 11.3% above the national average of $55,990.
What is the take-home pay for Truck Drivers in Chicago after taxes?
After federal and IL taxes, this $62,320 salary is worth about $49,169 a year - roughly $4,097 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 21%.
What do the highest-paid Truck Drivers earn in Chicago?
The top 10% of Truck Drivers in Chicago earn about $87,120 a year, versus about $37,280 for the bottom 10%.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 - roughly 5.1x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.