Heavy Truck Driver Career Guide: Mansfield, TX

Howdy. If you're considering a move to Mansfield to drive a big rig, you're looking at a solid market. I've been analyzing the DFW metro job scene for years, and Mansfield has a unique position. It’s not a major logistics hub like Fort Worth, but it sits on the I-20 corridor, nestled between the massive employment centers of Arlington and Grand Prairie. For a heavy truck driver, that means you can live in a quieter, more affordable suburb while still having access to thousands of jobs. This guide breaks down the reality—no sugar-coating, just the data and the local know-how you need to decide.

The Salary Picture: Where Mansfield Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. The median salary for Heavy Truck Drivers in this area is $53,615/year, with an hourly rate of $53,615/year. This is just slightly above the national average of $53,090/year. The metro area has 319 current job openings for drivers, which is a healthy number for a market of this size. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is steady but not explosive. This tells us the demand is consistent, driven by the ever-growing logistics needs of the DFW metroplex.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience translates to pay, here’s a breakdown based on local industry standards. These are estimated ranges based on the median data and common pay scales for the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Typical Roles
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $50,000	Local delivery, yard jockey, regional routes
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$50,000 - $60,000	Regional OTR, dedicated fleet, some specialized freight
Senior (8-15 years)	$60,000 - $75,000+	Long-haul OTR, tanker, hazmat, refrigerated
Expert (15+ years)	$70,000 - $85,000+	Owner-operators, trainer, specialized heavy-haul

How Mansfield Compares to Other Texas Cities:

• Dallas-Fort Worth Metro: Mansfield's median of $53,615 is right in line with the broader DFW metro, where the average is similar. The key advantage here is cost of living.
• Houston: Salaries for drivers are often 5-10% higher in Houston due to the port and petrochemical industry, but so is the cost of living and traffic congestion.
• San Antonio: Similar pay scale to Mansfield, but with a different job market focused more on military logistics and automotive.
• Abilene/Midland: These West Texas hubs often pay significantly more for OTR drivers (often $65k+), but the lifestyle is more isolated and the work is often more physically demanding.

Insider Tip: The $53,615 median is a solid baseline. To push into the mid-to-high end of that range, you'll need to specialize. Look for employers offering hazmat, tanker, or flatbed premiums. In the Mansfield area, dedicated routes for companies like Amazon or Walmart distribution centers often start at the higher end of the mid-level scale.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be real: a salary number is meaningless without knowing what’s left for bills. Mansfield’s cost of living index is 103.3 (US avg = 100), meaning it’s about 3.3% more expensive than the national average. The average 1-bedroom rent is $1,291/month. Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for a driver earning the median salary of $53,615/year.

Monthly Budget for a Single Driver (Earning $53,615/year)

• Gross Monthly Pay: $4,468
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): -$850
• Net Take-Home Pay: $3,618
• Rent (1BR Average): -$1,291
• Utilities (Est.): -$200
• Groceries: -$450
• Car Payment/Insurance: -$500 (Truck payment if owner-op, or car payment if company driver)
• Fuel (Personal Vehicle): -$250
• Miscellaneous (Phone, etc.): -$200
• Remaining: $727

Can they afford to buy a home?
The median home price in Mansfield is approximately $350,000. With a $727 monthly surplus, a 20% down payment ($70,000) is a significant hurdle for a single driver on this salary. However, if you have a dual-income household or move up to the senior level ($65k+), homeownership becomes much more feasible. Many drivers in the area purchase homes in the $250k-$300k range in neighboring Dalworthington Gardens or parts of Burleson.

Where the Jobs Are: Mansfield's Major Employers

Mansfield isn't a standalone logistics giant; it's a bedroom community for the DFW machine. Your job will likely be with a company headquartered elsewhere, but you may start or end your shift locally. Here are the key players:

1. Amazon Fulfillment Centers (Grand Prairie & Fort Worth): The massive Amazon facility off I-30 in Grand Prairie is a 15-20 minute drive from most of Mansfield. They are almost always hiring for their dedicated fleet and third-party carriers. It's a steady, predictable job with good benefits.
2. Walmart Distribution Center (Cleburne, 20 mins south): This is a major hub for Walmart's regional logistics. They offer dedicated regional routes that often keep you within a 500-mile radius, meaning you're home almost every night. A great option for work-life balance.
3. XPO Logistics / UPS Freight (Local Terminals): Both have terminals in Arlington and Grand Prairie. These are prime spots for LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) drivers. The pay is competitive, and the routes are often local or regional.
4. Local Fuel & Propane Companies: Companies like Brenntag North America or AmeriGas have distribution points near Mansfield. These are tanker jobs that require hazmat endorsement. They pay a premium and are highly stable.
5. Construction & Material Haulers: With the constant residential and commercial growth in Tarrant and Johnson counties, companies like Martin Marietta (aggregate) and various concrete mixers are always looking for drivers. This work is often daytime, Monday-Friday.
6. Food & Beverage Distributors: Companies like Ben E. Keith Foods (headquartered in Fort Worth) and PepsiCo have large distribution networks in the metroplex. These are great for drivers who prefer a consistent, local route.

Hiring Trend: The trend is toward dedicated contracts. Companies want drivers with clean records and reliability for long-term contracts. Local companies in Mansfield (like the construction and fuel haulers) often have a harder time finding drivers, leading to potentially higher pay and better home time, but the work can be more seasonal.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has straightforward requirements, but the process takes time and money.

State-Specific Requirements:

• Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Must hold for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. Requires passing knowledge tests for General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles.
• CDL Skills Test: Includes pre-trip inspection, basic control skills (backing), and on-road driving.
• Endorsements: Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) are the most valuable for higher pay. You need a TSA background check for Hazmat.
• Medical Certification: A DOT physical is required from a certified medical examiner.

Cost & Timeline (Estimates):

• CDL School: $3,500 - $6,500 for a 4-8 week program. Insider Tip: Many local community colleges (like Tarrant County College) offer programs that are more affordable than private schools. Some trucking companies will reimburse tuition if you sign a contract.
• Permits & Testing: ~$100-$200 for permit tests, skills test fees.
• Hazmat/Tanker Endorsement: Additional costs for fingerprinting and TSA fee (~$100) plus knowledge test.
• Total Upfront Investment: $4,000 - $7,000.
• Timeline: From starting school to holding a CDL with endorsements can take 2 to 4 months.

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the licensing authority. Always check their website for the most current forms and requirements.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Living in Mansfield gives you a balance of suburban comfort and commute efficiency. Here are the top neighborhoods for a truck driver, considering proximity to I-20, I-35E, and major employers.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Why It's Good for Drivers
Central Mansfield (Historic)	Walkable, established, near downtown. 10-15 min to I-20.	$1,350	Quick access to I-35E for northbound routes. Older homes, character.
South Mansfield/Texas 1187	Newer developments, family-oriented. 5-10 min to I-20.	$1,400	Direct access to I-20 East/West. Closer to Cleburne Walmart DC.
The Vineyards	Upscale, master-planned community. 10 min to I-20.	$1,500	Quiet, safe. A bit pricier but great for raising a family.
Dalworthington Gardens	Unique small city (part of Mansfield ISD), larger lots. 12 min to I-20.	$1,600 (2BR)	More space, often garages for working on a personal vehicle.
Midlothian (Adjacent)	More industrial, closer to Ellis County. 15 min to I-20.	$1,100	Budget Option. Closer to some Midlothian industrial employers, lower rent.

Insider Tip: If you drive a personal truck or have a trailer, check the specific HOA rules for the neighborhood. Some of the newer master-planned communities (like The Vineyards) have restrictions on parking commercial vehicles in driveways. Dalworthington Gardens and areas in Midlothian are generally more lenient.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 4% 10-year job growth for the metro is a baseline. Your personal growth depends on specialization and business acumen.

Specialty Premiums:

• Hazmat (H): +$5,000 - $10,000/year
• Tanker (N): +$3,000 - $7,000/year
• Flatbed (T): +$2,000 - $5,000/year (requires securement expertise)
• Heavy-Haul/Over-Dimensional: +$10,000 - $20,000+ (requires advanced knowledge and experience)

Advancement Paths:

1. Company Driver to Trainer: If you're with a large carrier, you can become a driver trainer, adding a steady paycheck bonus.
2. Owner-Operator: The ultimate goal for many. You'll lease onto a carrier or get your own authority. This is a business, not just driving. Expect 2-3 years of saving before making the leap. The DFW area provides a strong customer base for small owner-ops.
3. Logistics Coordinator/Scheduler: With enough experience, you can move to the office side. Your knowledge of routes, regulations, and driver needs is invaluable. Many local carriers in the area hire from within.

10-Year Outlook: The rise of e-commerce and the continued growth of the DFW metroplex will sustain demand. Automation is a long-term threat, but for the next decade, the driver shortage in Texas will keep wages competitive. The drivers who will thrive are those who get specialized, reliable, and maybe even build a small local business.

The Verdict: Is Mansfield Right for You?

Here’s the bottom line, laid out plainly.

Pros	Cons
Strategic Location: I-20 and I-35E provide access to the entire DFW job market.	Not a Standalone Hub: You'll likely commute to Arlington, Grand Prairie, or Fort Worth for the best jobs.
Affordable Cost of Living: Rent is reasonable for the DFW area, allowing for savings.	Suburban Sprawl: You'll need a reliable personal vehicle for daily life.
Quality of Life: Excellent schools (Mansfield ISD), parks, and a safe, family-friendly environment.	Traffic Congestion: Commuting to DFW job centers can add 30-60 minutes to your day during peak hours.
Diverse Job Market: Access to LTL, dedicated fleet, fuel, and construction driving.	Limited Nightlife: It's a quiet suburb; for big-city entertainment, you're driving to Fort Worth or Dallas.
Steady Growth: The 4% job growth and 319 openings indicate a stable market.	Competition: With 319 openings, there are other drivers. A clean record and good references are key.

Final Recommendation: Mansfield is an excellent choice for a heavy truck driver seeking a stable career with a high quality of life. It's particularly ideal for:

• Regional drivers who want to be home most nights.
• Drivers with families looking for good schools and a safe community.
• Those who want to live affordably while accessing the high-paying DFW market.

If you're a dedicated long-haul OTR driver who is rarely home, the location matters less, and you might find a cheaper place in a more rural area. But for the majority of drivers who value home time and community, Mansfield hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market in Mansfield for new CDL holders?
It's competitive but has clear entry points. Your best bet is to target the large distribution centers (Amazon, Walmart) or local fuel/construction companies. Many of them have training programs for new hires. Having your Hazmat endorsement before you apply will make you stand out immediately.

2. What's the typical home time for a driver based in Mansfield?
This varies wildly by employer. Dedicated fleet drivers for Amazon or Walmart based in Grand Prairie can often be home daily. Regional OTR drivers with carriers like XPO or UPS Freight are typically home 2-3 times a week. Long-haul OTR drivers may be out for 2-3 weeks at a time. Ask about the route and schedule in the interview!

3. Are there any local trucking associations or groups in the Mansfield area?
Yes. The North Texas Trucking Association (NTTA) is based in the DFW metro and hosts events, training, and networking. Driving out to one of their meetings in Irving or Fort Worth is a great way to connect with local fleet managers and owner-operators.

4. How bad is the traffic for a CDL driver?
Traffic is real. The worst congestion is on I-35E south of Fort Worth and I-20 during rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM). As a professional driver, you have to plan your routes and schedules. Many local driving jobs in the area have start times outside peak traffic, which is a huge benefit.

5. What's the first step if I'm moving from another state?
Contact the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to start the CDL transfer process. You'll need your out-of-state CDL, a Texas proof of residence, and you may need to take the Texas knowledge tests (though many states have reciprocity). It's best to start this process before you move. Also, get a Texas DOT medical card from a certified examiner in your current state if possible.