How to Become a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in North Carolina
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $49,580/year, which is 14% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers takes home approximately $1,892/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for heavy and tractor-trailer truck driverss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 64,610 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton and Durham-Chapel Hill.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $52K | $25.13/hr | 3,420 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $52K | $25.05/hr | 2,160 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $52K | $25.05/hr | 240 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $52K | $24.97/hr | 19,280 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $51K | $24.51/hr | 6,490 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $51K | $24.49/hr | 7,130 |
| Asheville | $50K | $24.13/hr | 2,200 |
| Winston-Salem | $50K | $23.81/hr | 3,550 |
| Burlington | $49K | $23.65/hr | 840 |
| Wilmington | $48K | $23.28/hr | 1,950 |
| Fayetteville | $47K | $22.7/hr | 1,760 |
| Rocky Mount | $47K | $22.48/hr | 960 |
| Goldsboro | $46K | $22.27/hr | 480 |
| Greenville | $46K | $22.18/hr | 560 |
| Jacksonville | $44K | $21.12/hr | 350 |
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary range in North Carolina
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers make in North Carolina?▼
The median heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers salary in North Carolina is $49,580 per year ($23.84/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $38,550 to $73,040.
What are the requirements to become a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in North Carolina?▼
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $49,580, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,304/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in North Carolina are Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton ($52,280), Durham-Chapel Hill ($52,100), Pinehurst-Southern Pines ($52,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $49,580 salary, this means roughly $2,231/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.