Truck Driver Salary in Atlanta
2026 salary data for CDL-A, CDL-B, non-CDL, and owner-operator truck drivers in Atlanta, Georgia. Compare local pay to state and national averages.
CDL-A Avg
$68,180
CDL-B Avg
$54,516
Non-CDL Avg
$56,982
Owner-Op Gross
$236,000
Salary Comparison by License Type
How Atlanta truck driver pay compares across CDL-A, CDL-B, non-CDL, and owner-operator categories.
Cost of Living in Atlanta
Atlanta's cost of living is near the national average, offering a balanced ratio of salary to expenses for truck drivers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Pay
Nominal CDL-A Salary
$68,180
Adjusted Purchasing Power
$66,194
After adjusting for Atlanta's cost of living index of 103, a CDL-A salary of $68,180 provides the same purchasing power as $66,194 in an average-cost area. The higher nominal salary is partially offset by higher local expenses.
Atlanta vs Georgia vs National Average
| Metric | Atlanta | GA Avg | National |
|---|---|---|---|
| CDL-A Average | $68,180 | $57,780 | $58,710 |
| vs State | +$10,400 | ||
| vs National | +$9,470 | ||
| Cost of Living | 103 | 93 | 100 |
| Adjusted Purchasing Power | $66,194 | $62,129 | $58,710 |
Salary Trend in Atlanta
Truck driver wages in Atlanta are trending upward, driven by growth in e-commerce fulfillment and beverage distribution. E-commerce fulfillment expansion and high turnover across the Georgia market continue to push pay higher.
Which carriers run freight through Atlanta?
These are large carriers with a real presence in the region. We do not publish what any of them pays in Atlanta — that is a number only the carrier and the driver know, and it moves with the account, the lane and your record. Ask for it in cents per mile alongside the expected weekly miles.
- Werner Enterprises
- Heartland Express
- USA Truck
- Averitt Express
Read our carrier profiles for pay structure, home time and equipment on each one.
Industries Driving Trucking Demand in Atlanta
These industries generate the most freight volume and trucking employment in the Atlanta market.
Find Trucking Jobs in Atlanta
Browse CDL driver positions in Atlanta, GA from top carriers and local companies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Pay in Atlanta
What is the average truck driver salary in Atlanta, GA?
CDL-A truck drivers in Atlanta, Georgia earn an average of $68,180 per year. Actual pay varies based on experience, endorsements, and whether you drive OTR, regional, or local routes. The Atlanta market is influenced by e-commerce fulfillment and beverage distribution freight demand.
How much do owner-operators make in Atlanta?
Owner-operators based in Atlanta gross approximately $236,000 annually before expenses. After deducting fuel, insurance, maintenance, and truck payments, net income typically ranges from $89,680 to $113,280. The Atlanta area's cost of living index of 103 is near the national average.
Is Atlanta a good city for trucking jobs?
Atlanta offers strong trucking employment thanks to its e-commerce fulfillment and beverage distribution sectors. The city's cost of living is near the national average, which provides a balanced ratio of earnings to expenses. CDL drivers with hazmat or tanker endorsements can earn 10-20% above the city average.