In San Diego, CA, Truck Drivers earn a median of $55,880 a year — almost exactly the U.S. median of $55,990. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #25.
What that pay is worth in San Diego
Local prices run 112 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $55,920 salary buys less than it looks — about $49,979 in national-average buying power.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in San Diego?
A typical San Diego home runs about $848,500 — 15.2 times the average Truck Driver salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $2,223/mo takes roughly 48% of gross pay — above the 30% comfort line.
The Truck Driver pay ladder in San Diego
Entry-level (10th percentile) Truck Drivers earn about $37,430; the top 10% reach $75,850 — a $38,420 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 San Diego
San Diego employs roughly 10,450 Truck Drivers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare San Diego with other cities
See the full Truck Driver salary by city ranking to weigh San Diego 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 San Diego?
The average Truck Driver in San Diego, CA earns about $55,920 per year, 0.1% below the national average of $55,990.
What is the take-home pay for Truck Drivers in San Diego after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $55,920 salary is worth about $45,554 a year - roughly $3,796 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 19%.
What do the highest-paid Truck Drivers earn in San Diego?
The top 10% of Truck Drivers in San Diego earn about $75,850 a year, versus about $37,430 for the bottom 10%.
Can Truck Drivers afford a home in San Diego?
A typical San Diego home runs about $848,500 - roughly 15.2x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.