Heavy Truck Driver in Edmond, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Edmond Stands

As a local who’s watched the trucking industry in the I-35 corridor for years, I can tell you the pay in Edmond is solid for the region, though it sits just a hair below the national average. Let’s get straight to the numbers.

The median salary for Heavy Truck Drivers in the Edmond metro area is $51,656/year. On an hourly basis, that breaks down to $24.83/hour. For context, the national average for Heavy Truck Drivers is $53,090/year. While Edmond is slightly under the national figure, the lower cost of living here makes your paycheck go further than it would in many other parts of the country.

Here’s how pay typically breaks down by experience level based on local job postings and industry data:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range	Typical Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$42,000 - $48,000	$20.19 - $23.08
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$48,000 - $58,000	$23.08 - $27.88
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	$27.88 - $32.69
Expert/Owner-Op (15+ years)	$68,000 - $85,000+	$32.69 - $40.87+

Compared to other Oklahoma cities, Edmond holds its own. It’s more affordable than Oklahoma City metro centers like Norman or Moore, where competition can be stiffer. Tulsa often has slightly higher median pay for specialized roles, but Edmond’s proximity to both OKC’s major distribution hubs and the I-40/I-35 interchange gives drivers here a strategic advantage for finding steady, local-regional work.

Insider Tip: The 4% 10-year job growth is modest but steady. It’s driven less by explosive population growth and more by Edmond’s role as a logistics satellite for the Oklahoma City metro. With 392 jobs currently in the metro, it’s a tight but active market. You won’t see dozens of openings on every corner, but the companies that are hiring are often looking for long-term, reliable drivers.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be real: a salary number doesn’t tell you what you can actually afford. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a Heavy Truck Driver earning the median salary of $51,656/year.

Assumptions for this breakdown:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $4,304.67 ($51,656 / 12)
• Estimated Taxes (Fed, State, FICA ~22%): ~$947
• Net Monthly Pay: ~$3,357
• Average 1BR Rent in Edmond: $773/month

Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income	$3,357	After estimated taxes
Rent (1BR)	$773	Average for Edmond; can be less
Utilities	$150 - $200	Electricity, water, trash, internet
Car Payment/Insurance	$350 - $500	Crucial; you need a reliable personal vehicle
Fuel (Personal Vehicle)	$150 - $200	Varies by commute
Groceries	$300 - $400
Health Insurance	$200 - $400	Employer plans vary widely
Misc. & Savings	$600 - $700	Discretionary spending and emergency fund
Total Expenses	~$2,773
Remaining	~$584	For savings, debt, or leisure

This budget shows that owning a home on a single median salary of $51,656 is a tight but possible stretch, especially with a partner's income. The Cost of Living Index of 91.0 (US avg = 100) is your biggest asset. A $200,000 home in Edmond is more attainable than in many parts of the country. With a decent credit score and a 5-10% down payment, a monthly mortgage (including taxes and insurance) could be in the $1,200-$1,400 range. This would require careful budgeting and likely means cutting back on discretionary spending compared to renting, but it’s not out of reach for a seasoned driver with a stable work history.

Insider Tip: Many local companies offer health insurance with relatively low premiums, and some even provide a fuel card for personal vehicle use on commutes to certain terminals. Always ask about these benefits during an interview—they can save you hundreds per month.

Where the Jobs Are: Edmond's Major Employers

Edmond isn’t a standalone logistics giant; it’s a key node in the Oklahoma City network. The jobs are here, but they often serve the broader metro. Here are the major players you should be looking at:

1. Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores: While headquartered in Oklahoma City, Love’s has a massive presence in Edmond (especially off I-35 near the 122nd St exit). They hire for both over-the-road (OTR) and dedicated regional routes. Their maintenance facilities at these large stores are also a source of work for drivers who want to transition to a shop role.

2. J.B. Hunt Transport Services: As a major national carrier with a significant operational footprint in the OKC metro, J.B. Hunt frequently posts openings for dedicated accounts that run out of Edmond and surrounding areas. They are known for their intermodal and dedicated contract services.

3. XPO Logistics: This global logistics company has a distribution center in nearby Oklahoma City that services the entire region, including Edmond. They handle everything from e-commerce to industrial freight. Drivers based in Edmond often run routes connecting these central warehouses to retailers throughout central Oklahoma.

4. US Foods: The large-scale food distributor has a distribution center in the OKC metro that services Edmond’s many restaurants and institutions. This is a classic, steady local delivery job that often requires early starts and city driving, but it’s consistent year-round work.

5. Sysco Corporation: Similar to US Foods, Sysco is another major foodservice distributor with a major hub in the OKC area. They serve Edmond’s growing restaurant scene. These jobs typically involve more physical labor (unloading) but offer regular schedules and good benefits.

6. C.R. England: A major refrigerated carrier, C.R. England has a strong presence in Oklahoma. They often recruit from the Edmond area for their regional and OTR refrigerated divisions. This is a good option for drivers looking to get into temperature-controlled freight.

7. Local & Regional Carriers (e.g., D.M. Bowman, PAM Transport): These companies often have terminals or accounts in the broader OKC region. They provide steady regional work (home weekly or bi-weekly) that is highly sought after by drivers who want to avoid long OTR stints.

Hiring Trend Insight: The trend is toward dedicated and regional contracts. Companies are investing in dedicated accounts for major clients (like the retailers and food distributors listed above), which means more predictable routes and schedules for drivers. OTR jobs are still abundant, but local/regional is the hotter market for those wanting more home time.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) requirements are straightforward but have specific state steps. Here’s the actionable path:

1. Basic Requirements:

• Be at least 18 for intrastate (within OK) and 21 for interstate (across state lines).
• Pass a DOT medical exam (Form MCSA-5876) from a certified medical examiner. Cost: $100 - $150.
• Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) by passing written knowledge tests.

2. The Process & Timeline:

• Step 1 (1-2 weeks): Study for the written tests. Apply for your CLP at the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS). You’ll need to pass the general knowledge test and any endorsements you want (e.g., Hazmat, Tanker, Doubles/Triples). Fee: ~$25.
• Step 2 (4-8 weeks): Enroll in a CDL training school. In Edmond, look at Oklahoma Transportation Academy (in nearby OKC) or Edmond Public Schools’ CareerTech programs. A Class A program typically costs $3,000 - $5,000. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement if you sign a work contract.
• Step 3 (Upon CLP holding period): After holding your CLP for a minimum of 14 days (Oklahoma state rule), you can schedule your skills test. This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test. Practice these maneuvers extensively, especially in the vehicle you’ll test in. Test fee: ~$50.

Total Estimated Startup Cost (without tuition): $175 - $225 (Medical, CLP, Skills Test).
Total Cost with School: $3,175 - $5,225.

Insider Tip: Many Edmond residents train at schools in Oklahoma City due to more frequent class schedules. If you’re currently employed, check if your employer offers a CDL apprenticeship program. It’s a slower path but can be debt-free.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Your choice of neighborhood in Edmond should balance commute to a terminal, personal lifestyle, and rent cost. Here are the top picks:

1. North Edmond (near I-35 & 122nd St):

   • Why: This is trucker central. You’re minutes from major carrier terminals (Love’s, J.B. Hunt) and direct access to I-35 for interstate routes. The commute to OKC distribution centers is minimal.
   • Lifestyle: More commercial, with shopping centers and fast food. Quiet at night.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $750 - $900.

2. Downtown Edmond:

   • Why: Best for drivers who work local/direct regional and want a walkable, vibrant lifestyle. Close to restaurants, parks, and the Edmond Railyard. Commute to OKC is about 20-25 minutes via I-35.
   • Lifestyle: Historic charm, older homes, lots of local businesses. You’ll need to be okay with street parking for your truck if you have one.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR (in older complexes/houses): $800 - $1,100.

3. South Edmond / Coffee Creek Area:

   • Why: Family-oriented, quiet, and still only a 15-20 minute drive to major employers. Good access to I-35 via 2nd St or 33rd St.
   • Lifestyle: Suburban, with newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. Good schools, parks, and fewer commercial trucks on local streets.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $850 - $1,200.

4. UT/West Edmond (University of Central Oklahoma area):

   • Why: If you’re a younger driver or want a more social, energetic vibe. Proximity to UCO can mean more part-time job options and amenities. Commute to terminals is still very manageable (10-15 mins).
   • Lifestyle: College-town energy with older, affordable housing stock and plenty of bars/restaurants.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $700 - $950.

Insider Tip: Avoid the immediate downtown core if you drive a heavy rig and need to park it at your residence. Many older streets aren’t built for it. The north and south sides are more truck-friendly.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year outlook for Heavy Truck Drivers in Edmond is stable, not explosive. The 4% job growth reflects a mature market. Advancement here is about specialization and moving into roles that leverage your experience.

Specialty Premiums (Example Pay Increases):

• Hazmat (H): +$1.00 - $2.50/hour
• Tanker (N): +$1.50 - $3.00/hour
• Doubles/Triples (T): +$1.00 - $2.00/hour
• Flatbed (with tarping skill): +$0.75 - $1.50/hour

Advancement Paths:

1. Driver Trainer: Train new hires. Often a salaried position or a premium per student.
2. Logistics Coordinator/Dispatcher: Move into an office role using your on-road knowledge. This is a common path for drivers who want to be home every night.
3. Fleet Manager: Oversee a team of drivers. Requires strong leadership and organizational skills.
4. Owner-Operator: The ultimate goal for many. With a strong client base in the OKC metro (from companies like US Foods or local manufacturers), you can build a profitable business. The lower cost of living in Edmond makes saving for a truck down payment more feasible.

10-Year Outlook: Autonomous trucking is not an imminent threat for regional/local routes in Oklahoma. The demand for human drivers will persist, especially for last-mile delivery, specialized freight, and customer-facing roles. The key will be adapting to new logistics tech and maintaining a clean safety record.

The Verdict: Is Edmond Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Lower Cost of Living: Your $51,656 median salary goes much further here.	Limited OTR Home Time: For true OTR drivers, Edmond is a starting point, not a home base.
Strategic Location: Easy access to I-35, I-40, and OKC’s massive logistics network.	Competitive Market: With only 392 jobs, openings can fill quickly.
Steady, Stable Job Market: The 4% growth is reliable, not volatile.	Weather Challenges: Ice and snow in winter can make driving more hazardous.
Quality of Life: Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong community feel.	Less Specialization: Fewer niche industries (e.g., ports, heavy mining) than coastal or mountain states.
Home Base for Regional Work: Perfect for drivers wanting regular home time.	Reliance on OKC: Most major employers are actually in the metro, not strictly in city limits.

Final Recommendation:
Edmond is an excellent choice for Heavy Truck Drivers who prioritize a high quality of life, affordability, and regular home time. It’s ideal for mid-career drivers with families looking to put down roots, or for newer drivers who want to break into the industry without the chaos of a massive city. If your goal is to maximize gross income for a few years of intense OTR life, you might look at coastal hubs. But for a sustainable, long-term career with a balanced lifestyle, Edmond’s combination of a median salary of $51,656, a low Cost of Living Index of 91.0, and strategic location makes it a compelling, practical option.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market with only 392 jobs in the metro?
A: The market is tight but not saturated. Quality, reliable drivers with clean records are always in demand. The number reflects a stable, established market. Being flexible on shift (day/night) and having endorsements (especially Hazmat) will make you a top candidate.

Q: Can I really afford to live in Edmond on the median salary?
A: Absolutely. With the average 1BR rent of $773/month and a Cost of Living Index of 91.0, your $51,656 salary provides a comfortable living. You won’t be lavishly spending, but you can cover all essentials, save, and even start building home equity.

Q: Is Edmond a good place for a new CDL graduate?
A: Yes, but with a plan. While there are entry-level jobs, competition can be stiff. Consider starting with a local/regional company based in OKC (like J.B. Hunt or a smaller carrier) that hires from Edmond. Many will train you on their specific equipment and routes.

Q: What about the weather? Does it really affect trucking jobs?
A: Yes. Oklahoma weather is unpredictable. Winter ice storms can shut down highways for days, impacting pay for per-mile drivers. However, many local/regional jobs are salaried or offer guaranteed minimum pay, which mitigates this risk. Always ask about weather-related pay policies.

Q: How do I find out about specific hiring trends in Edmond?
A: Monitor the Oklahoma Department of Commerce job board and LinkedIn. Also, visit the terminals in person (off I-35 at 122nd St) during business hours—many have hiring managers on-site. Networking with other drivers at truck stops is still one of the best ways to hear about openings before they’re posted publicly.