In 2025, female truck drivers are seeing some of the best pay and job opportunities in states with strong trucking industries and high freight demand. Texas, California, Washington, and Florida rank among the highest paying for CDL drivers, including women.
Salary and opportunity overview by state
| State | Average Truck Driver Salary | Notes on Trucking Opportunities |
| Washington | $68,400 | High port activity and unionized trucking jobs |
| California | $64,700 | Large freight volume, especially in logistics |
| Texas | $58,400 | Massive trucking workforce, diverse freight lanes |
| Florida | $55,700 | Strong regional freight & port traffic |
| Illinois | $65,200 | Major interstate hub with warehousing opportunities |
Pay depends heavily on local freight demand, type of driving (OTR, regional, local), and driver experience. Endorsements, such as tanker or HazMat licenses, also boost earnings substantially across these states.
Why pay varies across states
The earnings for female truck drivers in different regions depend on several factors. High freight volume areas tend to offer better pay, especially where ports, energy sectors, or high-value manufacturing are present. States like California and Texas benefit from energy, agriculture, and manufacturing demand, which boosts salaries and job opportunities. Endorsements such as HazMat or tanker licenses can also command 10% to 20% higher wages, especially in states with high freight demand. Regional cost of living and demand for skilled drivers play significant roles in wage differences. States supporting women in trucking often have initiatives that promote diversity and provide resources like mentorship programs to help women land higher-paying, more stable roles.
Factors influencing pay and job prospects for female truck drivers
- Freight Corridors and Ports: States with major freight lanes and ports typically offer better truck driving salaries due to higher freight volume. This trend benefits female drivers seeking high-paying roles.
- Type of Driving: Over-the-road (OTR) drivers generally earn more, but regional and local roles may offer better home time, appealing to many women balancing work and family.
- Experience and Endorsements: Veteran drivers with endorsements often command higher wages. Specialized endorsements such as HazMat or tanker licenses can increase pay by 10-20%.
- Employer Support: Some companies and states offer programs and initiatives supporting female drivers, including safety measures and mentorship opportunities to help women thrive in trucking.
Common questions about pay and careers from female truck drivers
Q: Which states offer the best pay for female truck drivers?
A: Washington, California, Illinois, Texas, and Florida have some of the highest average pay rates due to strong freight demand and infrastructure.
Q: Do endorsements help female truck drivers earn more?
A: Yes. Licenses for tanker, HazMat, and doubles/triples typically add 10-20% to salaries across top-paying states.
Q: Is local or OTR driving better for women?
A: It depends on personal and family needs. OTR pays more but may require longer stretches away from home, while local routes offer stable schedules and frequent home time.
Q: How is the job market for women in trucking?
A: Growing steadily with more trucking companies actively recruiting women and offering inclusive workplace programs.
Find your next trucking opportunity
To explore open truck driver jobs in these high-paying states, visit platforms like TruckDriversUSA—tailored to connect professional drivers, including women, with quality employers.
