Truck Driver Salary in Minnesota
Complete 2026 salary data for CDL and non-CDL truck drivers in Minnesota. Compare pay by license type, see cost of living adjustments, and find the highest-paying cities.
CDL-A Avg
$59,200
CDL-B Avg
$47,500
Non-CDL Avg
$40,500
Owner-Op Gross
$210,000
Salary Comparison by License Type
How Minnesota truck driver pay compares across CDL-A, CDL-B, non-CDL, and owner-operator categories.
Cost of Living in Minnesota
Minnesota's cost of living is 3% below the national average. Your salary stretches further here than in most states.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Pay
Nominal CDL-A Salary
$59,200
Adjusted Purchasing Power
$61,031
After adjusting for Minnesota's cost of living index of 97, a CDL-A salary of $59,200 provides the same purchasing power as $61,031 in an average-cost area. This means your money goes further in Minnesota than the raw salary suggests.
Top Paying Cities in Minnesota
These cities offer the highest average truck driver salaries in Minnesota based on freight volume, distribution center density, and local demand.
Salary Trend in Minnesota
Minnesota wages are strong relative to cost of living, supported by the Twin Cities distribution hub, Target Corporation logistics, and significant agricultural freight (grain, sugar beets, turkeys).
Minnesota vs National Average
| Category | MN | National | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CDL-A Average | $59,200 | $58,710 | +$490 |
| Cost of Living | 97 | 100 | -3 |
| Adjusted Pay | $61,031 | $58,710 | +$2,321 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Pay in Minnesota
What is the average truck driver salary in Minnesota?
Minnesota CDL-A drivers average $59,200, with Twin Cities drivers earning up to $64,800. The 97% cost of living index means strong purchasing power compared to many higher-pay states.
What companies hire truckers in Minnesota?
Minnesota is home to several major carriers and logistics companies: C.H. Robinson (Eden Prairie), Target Corporation (Minneapolis), Cargill, and numerous agricultural haulers serving the grain and food processing sectors.
What are the challenges of trucking in Minnesota?
Minnesota's harsh winters (temperatures can hit -30F) require cold-weather driving skills. Spring weight restrictions on rural roads and seasonal agricultural peaks create variable freight patterns throughout the year.