As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a School Bus Driver in the United States is $39,179 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.
However, a School Bus Driver's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A School Bus Driver's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a School Bus Driver's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level School Bus Driver | $38,631 |
| Intermediate Level School Bus Driver | $39,179 |
| Senior Level School Bus Driver | $40,466 |
| Specialist Level School Bus Driver | $40,641 |
| Expert Level School Bus Driver | $40,934 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract School Bus Drivers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 13.93% |
| Service Quality | 2.6% |
| Beacon | 1.52% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Special Education
|
$42,313 |
8%
|
|
Teamwork
|
$41,530 |
6%
|
|
Service Quality
|
$41,138 |
5%
|
|
Interviewing
|
$40,746 |
4%
|
|
Safety Inspections
|
$40,746 |
4%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$40,354 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many School Bus Drivers enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a School Bus Driver with a No Diploma is between $33,686 and $38,044).
School Bus Driver Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 8.0% |
| High School | 66.7% |
| Associates | 12.3% |
| Bachelors | 12.3% |
| Masters | 0.7% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a School Bus Driver's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a School Bus Driver, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living Resident Driver | $40,214 | 3% |
| Limousine Chauffeur II | $42,247 | 8% |
| Vehicle Delivery Driver | $43,237 | 10% |
| Shuttle Driver II | $41,125 | 5% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for School Bus Driver and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current School Bus Driver job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A School Bus Driver's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a School Bus Driver earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a School Bus Driver is $49,416.
The highest pay for School Bus Driver is $46,666.
The lowest pay for School Bus Driver is $33,335.
Drives a bus intended for school activities. Transports students to and from school and designated locations. May require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Requires a valid driver's license. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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