In New Orleans, LA, Truck Drivers earn a median of $49,110 a year — about 12% below the U.S. median of $55,990. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #44.
What that pay is worth in New Orleans
Local prices run 26 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $52,650 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $200,190 in national-average buying power.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in New Orleans?
A typical New Orleans home runs about $296,400 — 5.6 times the average Truck Driver salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,211/mo takes roughly 28% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Truck Driver pay ladder in New Orleans
Entry-level (10th percentile) Truck Drivers earn about $31,440; the top 10% reach $75,310 — a $43,870 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 New Orleans
New Orleans employs roughly 5,350 Truck Drivers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare New Orleans with other cities
See the full Truck Driver salary by city ranking to weigh New Orleans 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 New Orleans?
The average Truck Driver in New Orleans, LA earns about $52,650 per year, 6.0% below the national average of $55,990.
What is the take-home pay for Truck Drivers in New Orleans after taxes?
After federal and LA taxes, this $52,650 salary is worth about $43,291 a year - roughly $3,607 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 18%.
What do the highest-paid Truck Drivers earn in New Orleans?
The top 10% of Truck Drivers in New Orleans earn about $75,310 a year, versus about $31,440 for the bottom 10%.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in New Orleans?
A typical New Orleans home runs about $296,400 - roughly 5.6x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.