Heavy Truck Driver in Hollywood, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Hollywood Stands

If you're looking at Hollywood, Florida, as a heavy truck driver, your paycheck will likely land right around the national average, but the local cost of living will eat into it more than you might expect. The median salary for a heavy truck driver in the Hollywood metro area is $54,969/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.43/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $53,090/year, which is a good starting point. However, Hollywood isn't a low-cost market. The metro population is 153,864, and with a cost of living index of 111.8 (where the U.S. average is 100), you're paying about 12% more for everyday goods and services than the average American.

The job market is stable but not booming. There are approximately 615 heavy truck driver jobs in the metro area, with a 10-year job growth projection of only 4%. This isn't a field exploding with new openings, but it's also not disappearing. It's a mature market, which means experience and a clean record are your biggest assets.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience translates to pay, here’s a breakdown. Note that these are estimates based on the local median and industry standards.

| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary | Notes for Hollywood |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $42,000 - $48,000 | Often starts with local or regional routes. May involve more physical loading/unloading. |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $54,969 (Median) | This is your baseline. Expect benefits (health, retirement) and more consistent routes. |
| Senior-Level (8-15 years) | $60,000 - $70,000+ | Typically OTR or specialized carriers. Higher pay for hazmat, tankers, or oversized loads. |
| Expert/Specialized (15+ years) | $70,000 - $85,000+ | Often involves team driving, trainer roles, or niche local industries (e.g., port work). |

How does this compare to other Florida cities? It's fairly average. Miami and Tampa have higher costs of living and slightly higher median salaries, often pushing $57,000 - $60,000. In contrast, cities like Jacksonville or Orlando might have similar median pay but a lower cost of living index (around 105-108), meaning your dollar goes further. In Hollywood, you're balancing decent pay against a higher cost of living, particularly in housing.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the numbers. A $54,969/year salary in Florida means you're in a 12% federal tax bracket (for a single filer with the standard deduction) and you'll pay 7.65% for FICA (Social Security & Medicare). Florida has no state income tax, which is a major plus. After federal taxes and FICA, your take-home pay is roughly $43,000 - $44,000 annually, or about $3,585 - $3,665 per month.

Now, let's factor in Hollywood's housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,621/month. That's a significant chunk of your take-home, especially if you have other debt. For a single driver with no other dependents, rent would consume about 45% of your monthly net income. That's above the recommended 30% threshold, a common challenge in South Florida.

Can you afford to buy a home? It's tight. In Hollywood, the median home price is hovering around $400,000 - $450,000. With a $44,000 annual take-home, a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $2,200/month, which is over 60% of your net income. This is not financially sustainable on a single median-income salary. Homeownership would require a dual-income household, significant savings for a large down payment, or a move to a less expensive neighboring city like Miramar or Pembroke Pines, though prices there are also high. Realistically, renting is the more viable option for a single-income heavy truck driver in this market.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single driver earning $54,969/year:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,600	After federal taxes and FICA.
Rent (1BR Avg)	$1,621	Could be higher in trendy areas, lower in older complexes.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$250	Florida's AC is a major factor, especially in summer.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Insurance is high in South Florida. Assume a used truck.
Groceries & Food	$500	Florida has no tax on groceries, but prices are average.
Health Insurance (if not provided)	$300	A major variable; employer plans reduce this cost.
Fuel (Personal Vehicle)	$250	You'll drive less on the job, but Florida is car-dependent.
Miscellaneous/Entertainment	$229	The remainder for savings, emergencies, or leisure.
Total Expenses	$3,600	Very tight with little room for savings.

Insider Tip: Many drivers share apartments or live with family to reduce housing costs. Finding a roommate in areas like Hollywood Lakes or near the beaches can bring rent down to $800-$1,000/month, freeing up over $600 for savings or debt repayment.

Where the Jobs Are: Hollywood's Major Employers

Hollywood’s economy is fueled by tourism, healthcare, and logistics due to its proximity to Port Everglades. Heavy truck drivers are essential for moving goods to and from these hubs. Here are the key local employers to target:

1. Port Everglades: One of the busiest cruise ports and a major container port in the U.S. This is a prime location for drayage drivers (short-haul from ports to warehouses) and yard jockeys. Companies like POET, Carrix, and Port Everglades Terminal are always hiring. Hiring trends are steady, with a focus on drivers who can meet strict security clearance (TWIC card).
2. Broward Health Medical Center: Located in the heart of Hollywood, this major hospital system requires dedicated drivers for medical supply delivery, waste removal, and equipment transport. These are often local, daily routes with regular hours.
3. Walmart Distribution Center (nearby in Fort Lauderdale): While not in Hollywood proper, this massive facility is a major employer within a 20-minute commute. It offers regional and OTR positions with strong benefits and consistent freight. The Broward County logistics corridor is a hotspot.
4. Local Beverage & Food Distributors: Companies like Ben E. Keith Beverages and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits have major distribution hubs in the area. These jobs involve local delivery to restaurants, bars, and grocery stores across Hollywood and surrounding cities. It's seasonal but reliable.
5. Construction & Material Suppliers: With ongoing residential and commercial development, companies like Builders FirstSource (lumber and building materials) and Cemex (concrete) have local yards. These are often early-morning starts and physically demanding but pay competitively.
6. FedEx & UPS Ground Hubs: The Pompano Beach and Fort Lauderdale hubs serve the entire South Florida region, including Hollywood. These are unionized positions with excellent benefits and structured pay increases.
7. Waste Management Companies: Republic Services and Waste Pro have routes covering Hollywood. Garbage and recycling collection is a recession-proof sector with predictable schedules.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward specialized skills. Drivers with Hazmat, Tanker (X endorsement), or TWIC clearance for port work command higher pay. There's also a shift toward more local and regional routes as companies try to retain drivers and reduce OTR turnover.

Getting Licensed in FL

To drive a commercial vehicle in Florida, you'll need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The process is straightforward but requires time and investment.

State-Specific Requirements:

• Age: Must be 21 for interstate driving; 18 for intrastate (within Florida only).
• Knowledge Test: You must pass a general knowledge test, plus tests for any endorsements you want (e.g., Hazmat, Tanker).
• Road Skills Test: This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills (backing), and an on-road driving test.
• Federal DOT Physical: You must pass a physical exam from a certified medical examiner to ensure you are medically qualified. This is valid for 24 months.
• Florida-Specific: You must provide proof of Florida residency (like a utility bill) and pass a vision test.

Costs (Estimate):

• CDL Application Fee: $100
• CDL Training School: $3,000 - $7,000 (varies widely; some companies offer tuition reimbursement)
• DOT Physical Exam: $100 - $150
• Endorsement Tests: $50 - $100 each
• Total Estimated Cost (without employer help): $3,500 - $8,000

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Study for the Learner's Permit (1-2 weeks): Study the Florida CDL manual.
2. Get Your Learner's Permit (1 day): Pass the knowledge tests at a DHSMV office.
3. Complete Training (4-8 weeks): Attend a CDL school or a company-sponsored program.
4. Schedule Skills Test (1-2 weeks wait): After logging required practice hours (150 for non-experienced drivers).
5. Get Your CDL: After passing all tests, you receive your license.

Insider Tip: Many large carriers (like Swift, CRST, or Werner) have "company-paid CDL training" programs. They cover the cost in exchange for a 1-year contract. This is the best path if you lack upfront funds. Just be sure to read the contract terms carefully.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Choosing where to live in Hollywood depends on your route, commute tolerance, and lifestyle. Here are some options:

1. Hollywood Lakes (Zip: 33019):

   • Commute: Central location. Easy access to I-95, US-1, and the Turnpike. Good for drivers with variable routes.
   • Lifestyle: Quiet, residential area with older homes and apartments. Near the beach but not touristy.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Drivers who want a stable home base with a moderate commute.

2. Downtown Hollywood (Zip: 33020):

   • Commute: Walkable to restaurants and shops, but not ideal for truck parking. Commute to port or I-95 is quick.
   • Lifestyle: Urban, lively with young professionals and artists. Near the Young Circle and Arts Park.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,700 - $2,200/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Single drivers who want entertainment and don't mind a short commute.

3. West Hollywood (Zip: 33024, 33025):

   • Commute: Excellent access to I-75 and the Turnpike, heading toward Miami or the western suburbs. Far from the beach.
   • Lifestyle: More suburban, family-oriented. Quieter, with more recent apartment complexes and shopping centers.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,650/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Drivers who work regional routes heading west or want lower rent.

4. North Hollywood (Zip: 33021):

   • Commute: Close to Port Everglades and I-95. Ideal for drayage or port work.
   • Lifestyle: Mix of older single-family homes and smaller apartments. Less glamorous, more working-class.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,550/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Drivers specializing in port logistics or seeking the most affordable rent in the city.

Insider Tip: Avoid the immediate beachfront area (33020) if you drive a personal truck or need a parking space for a large vehicle. Parking is a nightmare and expensive. Look for apartments with dedicated lots in West or North Hollywood.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With a 10-year job growth of only 4%, you won't see massive industry expansion. Growth will come from specialization and advancement within your company.

• Specialty Premiums: To boost your $54,969 median salary, aim for endorsements:

  • Hazmat (H): +$2,000 - $5,000/year. Essential for chemical and fuel transport.
  • Tanker (N): +$2,000 - $4,000/year. For liquid bulk transport (e.g., fuel, chemicals).
  • Doubles/Triples (T): +$1,500 - $3,000/year. For hauling multiple trailers.
  • TWIC Card (for Port Work): Not a premium, but a requirement for port access. It opens a niche job market with good pay.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Driver Trainer: Mentor new drivers. Pay often includes a salary plus percentage of trainee's pay. Can push income toward $65,000+.
  • Logistics Coordinator/Dispatcher: Move off the road into planning, using your experience to manage routes and drivers. Salaries: $50,000 - $65,000.
  • Owner-Operator: The highest risk/reward path. You lease a truck and contract with a company. Profit depends on fuel costs, maintenance, and contracts. Can earn $80,000 - $120,000+ but carries significant debt and risk.
  • Fleet Manager: Oversee a company's truck fleet. Requires experience and leadership skills. Salaries: $65,000 - $85,000+.

10-Year Outlook: The industry will likely see more technology integration (e.g., electronic logging devices, safety systems). Drivers who adapt to tech and keep a flawless safety record will be most secure. The 4% growth means competition for the best jobs (with good pay and home time) will remain steady. Building a strong reputation locally is key.

The Verdict: Is Hollywood Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Median salary ($54,969) is slightly above the national average.	High Cost of Living (111.8) erodes your purchasing power.
No state income tax keeps more of your paycheck.	Rent ($1,621/month) is a major burden on a single income.
Proximity to Port Everglades creates specialized, well-paying niche jobs.	Homeownership is out of reach for most solo drivers on median salary.
Stable job market (615 jobs, 4% growth) with established employers.	Traffic congestion can make commutes long and frustrating.
Diverse routes available (local, regional, port, OTR).	Hot, humid climate can be physically demanding for drivers.
Access to major highways (I-95, I-75, Turnpike) for easy travel.	Competitive rental market with limited affordable options.

Final Recommendation:
Hollywood, FL, is a viable career move for a heavy truck driver if you are not the sole income earner for a family, or if you have a specialized skill set (Hazmat/Tanker/TWIC). It's a "paycheck-to-paycheck" city for a single driver at the median salary, but the job market is solid and the location offers unique opportunities in port logistics.

Who should come:

• Experienced drivers with 5+ years and endorsements ready to command $60,000+.
• Drivers in a dual-income household where renting or buying becomes feasible.
• Those seeking a stable, mature market in a sunny, vibrant location.

Who should think twice:

• New drivers struggling with the high upfront cost of CDL training and low starting pay.
• Anyone planning to buy a home on a single driver's salary.
• Those who prioritize low cost of living above all else; consider North Florida or the Midwest.

FAQs

1. What's the first thing I should do before moving to Hollywood, FL?
Secure a job offer before you move. The rental market is competitive, and having an offer in hand makes it easier to qualify for an apartment. Research employers like Port Everglades drayage companies or Broward Health.

2. Is it worth it to get a TWIC card for Port Everglades work?
Absolutely.