Public Transportation Operators

Earnings for local public transportation operators vary by location and experience. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the May 2024 median salary for local and intercity bus drivers was $57,440. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,250 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $82,640. School bus drivers on average made less, with a median salary of $47,040. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $27,680 and the highest 10 percent earned $63,810 or more. Subway and streetcar operators earned salaries that ranged from less than $52,260 to $87,940 or more, with a mean annual wage of $75,620.

Almost all public transportation operators belong to a union, such as the Amalgamated Transit Union or the Transport Workers Union of America. Wages and benefits packages are usually determined through bargaining agreements between these unions and the management of the transit system. Benefits often include paid health and life insurance, sick leave, free transportation on their line or system, and as much as four weeks of vacation per year.