Heavy Truck Driver in Jackson, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a heavy truck driver looking at Jackson, you need to understand the local pay scale. It's a market that's stable but not booming, with a cost of living that works in your favor. The median salary for a heavy truck driver in the Jackson metro area is $51,608 per year, which breaks down to a solid $24.81 per hour. This is just slightly under the national average of $53,090 per year, but when you factor in Jackson's lower cost of living, your dollars stretch further.

Let's break this down by experience level. These figures are estimates based on local job postings and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the region.

Experience Level	Annual Salary (Approx.)	Hourly Rate (Approx.)	Typical Roles & Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$38,000 - $45,000	$18.27 - $21.63	Local delivery, yard jockey, or regional routes. Often with training programs.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$48,000 - $58,000	$23.08 - $27.88	Over-the-road (OTR), dedicated accounts, or local with hazmat/tanker endorsements. This is where the median falls.
Senior (8-15 years)	$55,000 - $65,000	$26.44 - $31.25	Specialized hauling (flatbed, refrigerated), trainer roles, or senior local driver with a top employer.
Expert (15+ years)	$65,000+	$31.25+	Owner-operators, specialized line haul, or safety/training managers. Premium pay for clean record and endorsements.

How Jackson Compares to Other Mississippi Cities:
Jackson isn't the highest-paying city in the state for truck drivers, but it's competitive. The Gulf Coast (Biloxi/Gulfport) often sees slightly higher wages due to port traffic and tourism logistics, but the cost of living is also higher. In the north, Memphis's influence can pull wages up in DeSoto County, but that's a different metro entirely. Jackson's strength is its central location and the stability of its core employers—government, healthcare, and regional distribution. The job market in the metro has 574 positions actively listed on major boards, which indicates a steady demand without the intense competition of a mega-hub like Memphis or Dallas. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is modest but steady, suggesting a reliable market for the foreseeable future.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $51,608 means your monthly gross pay is about $4,301. After federal, state (Mississippi has a progressive income tax from 0% to 5%), and FICA taxes, your take-home pay will likely be in the $3,200 - $3,400 per month range, depending on your withholdings and benefits.

Now, let's look at housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson is $997 per month. This is significantly lower than the national average. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single driver earning the median:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$4,301	Based on $51,608 annual
Taxes & Deductions	~$900 - $1,100	Federal, MS state tax (0-5%), FICA (7.65%)
Take-Home Pay	$3,200 - $3,400	(Using $3,300 for calculation)
Rent (1-Bedroom Avg)	$997	Can vary by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities (Electric, Water, Gas)	$120 - $180	Jackson can be humid; summer AC costs add up
Groceries	$300 - $400	For one person, eating at home more often
Vehicle Insurance & Fuel	$250 - $350	Higher if you own a personal vehicle for off-duty
Phone/Internet	$70 - $100	Basic plans
Miscellaneous/Leisure	$200 - $300	Eating out, entertainment, etc.
Total Expenses	$1,937 - $2,407
Remaining for Savings/Debt	$893 - $1,363	This is your buffer for savings, student loans, etc.

Can you afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. The median home price in Jackson is around $200,000 - $225,000, though it varies widely by neighborhood. With a significant down payment (say 10-20%), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) could be between $1,200 and $1,600. Given your take-home pay, a driver earning the median can comfortably afford a mortgage in Jackson, especially if they have a partner's income or are debt-free. This is a major advantage over larger, more expensive cities where homeownership is out of reach for many drivers.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson's job market for heavy truck drivers is anchored by several key industries. You won't find the massive central hubs of Memphis or Dallas here, but you will find stable, long-term employers who value experienced drivers.

1. Mississippi Food Distribution (MSFD): This is a major distributor for food, beverage, and grocery products across the state. They have a large distribution center in the Flowood area. They hire for local and regional routes. Insider Tip: They have a reputation for good equipment and consistent schedules, making them a top choice for drivers who want to be home daily. Hiring often picks up ahead of major holidays.

2. BancorpSouth (now Cadence Bank) and other Financial Institutions: While it seems odd, large banks have their own logistics for ATM cash replenishment, armored car services, and document transport. Companies like Loomis Armored US (which services the Jackson area) are often hiring for Class A drivers with a clean record, as they require higher security clearances. This is a niche with premium pay.

3. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC): Located in the Belhaven area, UMMC is one of the largest employers in the state. Their logistics department needs drivers for intra-hospital transport and supply chain delivery. These are often local, daytime routes with excellent benefits. It's a great option for drivers seeking a stable, 9-to-5 schedule.

4. Gulf Coast and Mississippi River Logistics Companies: Companies based in Gulfport or Vicksburg often have routes that run through Jackson. These include Hornbeck Offshore Services (now Hornbeck Corporate Services) for specialized equipment transport or Campbell Transportation for river barge and trucking logistics. These jobs often pay on the higher end of the scale but may involve more regional travel (2-3 days out).

5. Regional Carriers (KLLM, J.B. Hunt, Knight-Swift): These national carriers have significant operations in Mississippi. While headquarters are elsewhere, their recruiters are active in Jackson. KLLM, headquartered in nearby Richland, is a massive employer in the state. They offer a range of OTR and regional opportunities. J.B. Hunt has a large dedicated account base in the Southeast, with routes frequently passing through or originating in Jackson.

6. Local Construction and Materials: Companies like Cemex (for ready-mix and aggregates) or Baker Concrete are always in need of dump truck and mixer drivers. These jobs are physically demanding and often start early, but they pay well and are deeply tied to the local construction economy, which is steady in the Jackson metro.

Hiring Trend: The trend in Jackson is toward specialization. Drivers with Hazmat (X endorsement), Tanker (N endorsement), or Flatbed experience are in higher demand and can command the top of the salary range. The market is less volatile than in oil-dependent regions; it's more about serving the state's capital and healthcare needs.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi's licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees all commercial driver's licenses (CDL).

State-Specific Requirements & Costs:

• Age: You must be 21 to drive across state lines (Interstate) or haul hazardous materials. You can get a CDL at 18 for intrastate driving only.
• Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): You must hold a CLP for at least 14 days before you can test for your CDL. To get a CLP, you must:
  • Pass a vision test.
  • Pass the general knowledge test.
  • Pass the endorsement tests for the class you want (e.g., Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles).
  • Cost: The permit fee is $32.50.
• CDL Skills Test: This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.
  • Cost: The skills test fee is $125.
• Total Estimated Licensing Cost (without school): $157.50 for state fees. You will also need to pay for a DOT physical (approx. $80-$100) and a certified medical examiner's certificate.
• CDL Schools: There are several reputable schools in the Jackson area, such as Mississippi Truck Driver Training School (MTDTS) in nearby Madison and Delta Technical College in Ridgeland. Tuition ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement, so it's worth asking about during interviews.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Week 1-2: Study for the CLP exams. Get your DOT physical.
2. Week 3: Visit the DPS, pass your tests, and get your CLP. You can start practicing driving at this point.
3. Week 4-12: Attend a CDL school (if you choose) or train with a school or company trainer. Most school programs are 4-6 weeks.
4. Week 13: Schedule and pass your CDL skills test at the DPS or an approved third-party testing site.
5. Week 14+: Apply for jobs. Some companies will hire you immediately after you get your CDL, while others may require 1-3 months of experience.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Where you live in Jackson can impact your commute, especially if you're working local routes. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods from a driver's perspective:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Why It's Good for a Driver
Flowood	Suburban, family-friendly. Easy access to I-55 and I-20. Home to MSFD and many distribution centers.	$1,050 - $1,200	Prime location. You can avoid heavy downtown traffic. Close to major employers. A great "home base."
Ridgeland	Affluent, northern suburb. Direct access to I-55. Near the Natchez Trace Parkway for scenic off-duty drives.	$1,100 - $1,300	Quick commute to jobs in Flowood or downtown. Safe, with good amenities. Slightly higher rent, but worth it for the lifestyle.
Madison	Upscale, family-oriented. Very low crime, excellent schools. Commute via I-55 or MS-51.	$1,150 - $1,350	If you're hauling for a company based in Flowood or on the northern side of the metro, this is a great, quiet option.
Pearl	Southern suburb, more affordable. Direct access to I-20 and the airport. Gentrifying in spots.	$900 - $1,050	Budget-friendly. Close to the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport for potential air freight jobs. Easy interstate access.
Belhaven (Jackson)	Historic, walkable, close to downtown and UMMC. Older homes, eclectic vibe.	$850 - $1,050	If you work for UMMC or a downtown logistics company, you can have a very short commute. Street parking can be a challenge with a large vehicle. Insider Tip: Check specific apartment policies for commercial vehicle parking.

Personal Insight: For most heavy truck drivers, Flowood or Ridgeland are the sweet spots. You're close to the industrial hubs, have easy freeway access, and are away from the downtown congestion when you're done with your route.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 4% means you're not walking into a explosive market, but a stable one. Growth for you as a driver will come from specialization and taking on more responsibility.

• Specialty Premiums: This is where you increase your earning potential in Jackson.
  • Hazmat/Tanker (X Endorsement): Can add $0.10-$0.20 per mile or a $5,000-$10,000 annual premium with the right company. Essential for fuel, chemical, and certain food-grade tankers.
  • Flatbed: Requires more physical work but often pays more per mile. Local flatbed jobs for construction materials are common.
  • Doubles/Triples: Less common in the Jackson area but available with some regional carriers.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Driver Trainer: Senior drivers can become paid trainers for new hires, which comes with a pay bump and less road time.
  • Logistics/Safety Coordinator: With experience, you can move into a desk job in dispatch, safety, or operations at a local office. This leverages your firsthand knowledge.
  • Owner-Operator: The lower cost of living makes saving for your own truck more feasible. You can lease on with a carrier based in Jackson (like KLLM) and run regional routes.
  • Specialized Fleet Manager: Overseeing a team of specialized drivers (e.g., all flatbeds or tankers) for a company like a construction firm or a distributor.

The key is to get 2-3 years of clean, accident-free experience, get your endorsements, and build a reputation for reliability. Jackson's small-town network means word gets around.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: Your $51,608 salary goes much further here. Homeownership is a real possibility.	Modest Salary Growth: The pay is solid but not at the national top tier. Major raises come from specialization.
Stable Job Market: 574 jobs and steady demand from core industries (government, healthcare, distribution).	Limited "Mega-Hub" Opportunities: Fewer opportunities for high-paying, specialized OTR routes compared to Memphis or Texas.
Easy Commutes: Even in a "city," traffic is minimal. You can live in a nice suburb and have a 20-minute commute.	Hot, Humid Summers: Affects both you and your equipment. Requires good AC in your cab and at home.
Central Location: A great base for regional routes covering the Deep South.	Social Scene: If you're single and looking for a vibrant nightlife, Jackson's culture is more laid-back and family-oriented.
Lower Stress: Less competitive, less congested. A good place to build experience without the pressure of a major freight hub.	Limited Public Transit: You will need a personal vehicle for off-duty life, as the city is spread out.

Final Recommendation: Jackson is an excellent choice for heavy truck drivers who value stability, a reasonable cost of living, and a good work-life balance. It's perfect for mid-career drivers looking to buy a home, or for new drivers who want to build experience without being overwhelmed by a cutthroat market. If your primary goal is to maximize every single dollar per mile in a high-octane environment, you might look elsewhere. But if you want a solid career with a predictable schedule in a city where you can build a life, Jackson is a strong contender.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for a new CDL graduate in Jackson?
A: It's moderately competitive. You will have options, but you may need to start with a local or regional account to gain experience before landing a premium OTR job. The key is to apply to multiple employers (like MSFD, the local carriers, and construction companies) and be willing to start with a reputable company that offers paid training.

Q: Are there any unique local certifications or requirements?
A: No, Mississippi follows federal DOT standards. However, for jobs in the Jackson area, having the Tanker (N) and Hazmat (X) endorsements is a significant advantage early on, as you'll be serving the state government's fuel needs and local industrial plants.

Q: What's the best way to find housing near truck parking?
A: Many apartment complexes in Flowood, Pearl, and Ridgeland are used to commercial vehicles. Always call and ask about their parking policies. Some offer designated oversized spots. For longer-term, renting a house with a driveway in these suburbs is a common and feasible option for drivers.

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