Heavy Truck Driver in Ogden, UT

The Salary Picture: Where Ogden Stands

As a local who’s watched the trucking industry evolve in Ogden for years, I can tell you it’s a solid, steady market—but not a gold rush. The numbers back it up. The median salary for a Heavy Truck Driver in the Ogden metro is $52,309/year, which breaks down to $25.15/hour. This is just a hair below the national average of $53,090/year. For a city with a cost of living index of 95.1 (well under the U.S. average of 100), that’s a respectable wage that goes further here than in many places.

The Ogden metro area, with a population of 87,272, supports 349 jobs specifically for Heavy Truck Drivers. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's stable. In a field prone to national economic swings, stability is a currency all its own. Ogden’s strategic location along I-15, with easy access to Salt Lake City, Provo, and the Colorado/Wyoming corridors, keeps demand consistent for regional and long-haul routes.

Here’s how experience typically translates into pay in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Yearly Salary	Typical Hourly Rate	What to Expect
Entry-Level	$42,500 - $48,000	$20.43 - $23.08	Local delivery, yard jockey, or with a training company. Expect more "holdover" pay and less predictable miles.
Mid-Level	$52,309 (Median)	$25.15	Regional routes, consistent freight. You've proven reliability and have a clean record. This is the Ogden baseline.
Senior	$60,000 - $68,000	$28.85 - $32.69	Dedicated accounts, trainer roles, or specialized hauling. High performance and safety records earn premiums.
Expert/Specialist	$70,000+	$33.65+	Owner-operator (with own truck), hazardous materials, oversized loads, or a company's top-tier driver.

Insider Tip: Don't base your entire expectation on the median. In Ogden, drivers who secure a dedicated route with a company like C.R. England or Maverik often jump straight into the mid-level bracket, sometimes even starting at $54,000+ if they have a clean record and some experience. The key is finding a company with good freight in the Intermountain West.

How Ogden Compares to Other Utah Cities:

• Salt Lake City Metro: Higher median salary (around $55,000), but significantly higher rent and congestion. The pay bump is often eaten by the cost of living.
• Provo/Orem: Similar salary range to Ogden ($51,000-$53,000), but with heavier local traffic and a different employer mix (more tech-adjacent logistics).
• Logan: Lower salary (around $49,000), lower rent, but fewer major employers and more agricultural/farming-related routes.

For a driver prioritizing a balance of good pay and a lower cost of living, Ogden consistently lands in a sweet spot.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the budget. The median salary of $52,309 is a gross figure. After federal taxes, Utah state tax (a flat 4.95%), Social Security, and Medicare, a single filer can expect to take home approximately $41,500 - $42,500 annually, or about $3,460 - $3,540 per month.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Ogden is $1,108/month. This is a critical number. Let's build a monthly budget for a single driver at the median income:

• Take-Home Pay: $3,500 (using a midpoint)
• Rent (1BR): -$1,108
• Utilities (Est.): -$180 (Gas, Electric, Water, Internet)
• Car Payment/Insurance: -$400 (This is a major expense for drivers; many companies require a personal vehicle)
• Groceries: -$350
• Phone: -$60
• Health Insurance/Other: -$200
• Misc/Savings: -$302

Leftover: $900 for entertainment, savings, debt repayment, or family needs.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The Ogden housing market is competitive but more accessible than Salt Lake. The median home price is roughly $425,000. With a $52,309 salary, qualifying for a mortgage is challenging on a single income. Lenders typically want your total debt-to-income (DTI) ratio under 43%. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be around $2,200-$2,500. That’s over 60% of your take-home pay—well above the recommended 30% for housing. For a single driver at the median wage, buying a home alone is likely not feasible without a substantial down payment (20%+) or a dual-income household. For couples or drivers with supplemental income, it becomes much more attainable.

Where the Jobs Are: Ogden's Major Employers

Ogden’s logistics scene is a mix of national carriers and local/regional players. The key is finding a company with consistent freight in your preferred lane.

1. C.R. England: A major player with a large Ogden terminal. They're known for training but have a vast network. Hiring trends are steady, with a focus on regional and long-haul. Insider Tip: Their "dedicated" divisions (like the Walmart account out of the Ogden area) are where you want to be for stability and miles.
2. Maverik – Adventure's First Stop: While a gas station chain, their logistics arm is huge. They have a major distribution center in Ogden for their "Maverik Logistics" division. This is a prime spot for regional drivers who want to be home almost every night. They value safety and longevity.
3. Penske Logistics: Located near the Ogden-Hinckley Airport and industrial parks, Penske manages dedicated fleets for various clients. This is a top-tier employer with excellent equipment and benefits. They often hire drivers with 2+ years of experience.
4. XPO Logistics: A global giant with a significant presence in the Salt Lake City metro, which includes Ogden. They handle a lot of less-than-truckload (LTL) and dedicated contract carriage. Check their Ogden-based opportunities for regional routes.
5. Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL): A premier LTL carrier with a terminal in the area. LTL driving is different—you're handling multiple stops, freight handling, and a more structured schedule. It pays well and is great for drivers who don't want to live on the road for weeks.
6. Local & Regional Haulers: Companies like Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) for specialized heavy haul, or D&L Transport for bulk tankers (fuel, food-grade), are consistently in the market. These are often hidden gems that pay well for specialized skills.

Hiring Trend: The trend in Ogden is toward dedicated and regional accounts. Companies are moving away from the traditional "over-the-road" model for local hires, preferring drivers who can handle specific, repeatable routes (e.g., Ogden to Boise, Ogden to Denver). This is a huge plus for quality of life.

Getting Licensed in UT

Utah follows federal CDL standards, but there are state-specific steps.

Requirements:

1. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Pass the written knowledge tests (General Knowledge, Combination Vehicles, and Air Brakes if applicable). You must hold the CLP for 14 days before taking the road test.
2. DOT Medical Card: You need a valid medical examiner's certificate from a certified provider. This is a federal requirement. Cost: $100 - $150.
3. Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Since February 2022, you must complete a FMCSA-approved ELDT program from a registered training provider to get your Class A CDL. This is non-negotiable. Cost: $3,000 - $7,000 (varies by school; some companies offer tuition reimbursement).
4. CDL Skills Test: Conducted by the Utah DMV. Includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. Cost: $65 for the knowledge test and skills test.

Timeline to Get Your CDL:

• With a Private School: 3-6 weeks of full-time training. The fastest path.
• Company-Sponsored Training: 4-8 weeks, often with a 1-year work commitment. You may get a reduced training cost but are locked into that company.
• Self-Taught (Rare): Not recommended due to ELDT requirements. Most people go through a school.

Utah-Specific Note: Utah has a "CDL Self-Certification" requirement. You must inform the Utah DMV what type of driving you'll be doing (e.g., Interstate vs. Intrastate) and your medical status. This is done online and is crucial for compliance.

Insider Tip: If you're new, consider a company-sponsored program in Ogden. It gets you on the road with a job, and the payback structure is often manageable. Just read the fine print on your commitment.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

When choosing where to live in Ogden, think about commute to major employers and access to I-15. You don't want to be stuck in morning traffic on 12th Street when your shift starts at 6 AM.

1. East Ogden / Valley View: This is the classic choice. Close to the highway, close to the Ogden Canyon for weekend recreation, and a straight shot to the I-15/I-84 interchange where many companies are located. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300 for a 1BR. It's a quiet, residential area popular with working professionals.
2. North Ogden / Farr West: A bit more suburban, with newer apartment complexes and houses. Excellent highway access via I-15. The commute to the Ogden industrial area is 10-15 minutes. Rent Estimate: $1,150 - $1,400 for a 1BR. Good for drivers with families who want more space.
3. Downtown Ogden (Historic District): For the driver who wants an urban lifestyle. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the 25th Street scene. Commute Insight: You're still only 5-10 minutes from I-15. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,250 for an older 1BR in a historic building. Parking can be a challenge for personal vehicles.
4. South Ogden / Washington Terrace: Closer to the Salt Lake metro, with easy access to the southern part of the I-15 corridor. A bit more congested but offers more amenities. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300. Ideal if you land a job with a company based further south.
5. Mountain Green / Morgan (20-25 min east): If you want a true small-town feel and easy access to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. It's a scenic, quiet commute to the I-15/I-84 interchange. Rent Estimate: Lower, around $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR, but fewer rental options.

Insider Tip: For a truck driver, proximity to a major truck stop (like the Love's or Pilot in North Ogden) is a hidden convenience for quick pre-trip checks or last-minute supplies before a long haul.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career in Ogden doesn't have to plateau at the median.

Specialty Premiums:

• Hazmat (H): Add $2,000 - $5,000/year to your base. The Ogden area has chemical and fuel distributors requiring this.
• Tanker (N): Often paired with Hazmat. Premium similar to Hazmat.
• Doubles/Triples (T): Less common in Ogden, but a premium exists for those who get it.
• Heavy Haul / Oversized: Commands the highest premiums, often $3 - $5+ per hour over base. Requires experience and specialized permits. Companies like ATS are the go-to here.

Advancement Paths:

1. Trainer: Become a driver-trainer for a company like C.R. England or a local school. Adds $5,000 - $10,000 to your income.
2. Dispatcher/Fleet Manager: Move into operations. Requires strong logistics knowledge and communication skills. A path out of the driver's seat with a potential salary of $60,000 - $75,000.
3. Owner-Operator: The ultimate goal for many. Your take-home can be $100,000+, but it comes with massive responsibility (truck payment, maintenance, insurance, finding freight). Ogden's location is a major asset for an O/O, with access to a steady stream of inbound and outbound freight.
4. Safety/Compliance Officer: With your firsthand experience, you can move into a safety role, ensuring other drivers stay compliant. This is a growing field in logistics.

10-Year Outlook: The 4% growth is modest, but the nature of the job is changing. Automation is a long-term topic, but in the next decade in Ogden, the demand will shift toward drivers who are tech-savvy (using ELDs, routing software) and who can handle specialized, irregular freight that machines can't. Your value will be in your problem-solving skills and your ability to handle complex, customer-facing deliveries. The drivers who adapt will thrive.

The Verdict: Is Ogden Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $52,309 salary stretches further here than in Salt Lake or Denver.	Limited Career Ceiling: Without specialization or moving into management, pay tops out in the $65,000 range for most company drivers.
Strategic Location: Unbeatable access to I-15 and I-84 for regional and national routes.	Seasonal Weather: Winter driving on mountain passes (I-84 to Wyoming, I-15 over Point of the Mountain) can be treacherous.
Stable Job Market: With 349 jobs and steady employers, it's a reliable place to build a career.	Limited Public Transit: You absolutely need a personal car for off-duty life.
Outdoor Recreation: World-class skiing, hiking, and lakes are 30-60 minutes away. Great for resetting after a long haul.	Rising Housing Costs: While cheaper than the Wasatch Front, rents are increasing. The $1,108 average is climbing.
Balanced Lifestyle: The metro size offers amenities without big-city chaos. You can be home most nights if you choose regional routes.	Smaller Network: Fewer large carriers' headquarters than in SLC, meaning some niche opportunities are limited.

Final Recommendation:
Ogden is an excellent choice for a Heavy Truck Driver who prioritizes work-life balance and cost of living over chasing the absolute highest national salaries. It's ideal for:

• Mid-career drivers looking to settle down and buy a home (with a dual income).
• Drivers with families who want access to outdoor activities and good schools.
• New drivers who can enter through a company-sponsored program and build experience in a stable market.

If your goal is to be a top-earning, coast-to-coast OTR driver, you'll make more money out of hubs like Chicago or Dallas. But for a sustainable, high-quality career, Ogden offers a compelling package.

FAQs

Q: Can I get a local job right away as a new driver in Ogden?
A: It's challenging but possible, especially with companies like Maverik Logistics or local delivery services. More likely, you'll start with a regional or OTR position for 6-12 months to gain experience before a coveted local/dedicated route opens up.

Q: How does the winter weather affect driving here?
A: Significantly. Ogden sits at the mouth of the canyon, and I-15 through the Point of the Mountain and I-84 toward Wyoming can be closed during severe storms. Companies add weather delays, and drivers need to be prepared with proper gear and patience. It's a key part of the job here.

Q: Is the Ogden trucking market saturated?
A: Not saturated, but competitive. With 349 jobs for 87,000 people, there's demand, but companies can be picky. A clean record (no major violations or accidents in the last 3-5 years) is your biggest asset.

Q: What's the best way to find a place to live in Ogden?
A: Drive the neighborhoods you're considering. Look for "For Rent" signs, especially in East Ogden and North Ogden. Use apps like Zillow or Apartments.com, but be aware that the best deals are often found through local property managers listed in the