Updated May 2026
CDL Driver Salary in Vermont (May 2026)
Through May 2026, the average CDL driver in Vermont earns $2,836 per week (median $2,050). Based on 1,268 active CDL postings in Lanefinder's index. 31% of postings include a sign-on bonus, averaging $2,044. Vermont freight runs on I-89 and I-91 through a small market, with dairy products, specialty food manufacturing, and building materials comprising most loads and seasonal agriculture adding volume in harvest months.
What changed in May 2026
We just started tracking monthly changes for this view. Check back next month to see how rankings have shifted.
What CDL drivers are earning across Vermont
Across active CDL postings in Vermont this month, pay varies meaningfully by hiring type. The breakdown below shows the average and median weekly pay for each.
| Hiring type | Avg/wk | Median/wk | Active postings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independent Contractor (1099) | $2,235 | $2,050 | 566 |
| Company Driver (W2) | $1,571 | $1,542 | 380 |
| Owner Operator | $7,325 | $7,500 | 322 |
Source: Lanefinder index, May 2026
What Vermont drivers actually run
Of active CDL postings in Vermont this month, 11% are regional and 86% are OTR (long-haul). Local and semi-local routes account for the remaining 3%.
Across Vermont CDL postings: 1% with guaranteed pay, 28% dedicated, 86% take-truck-home, 69% pet-friendly, 66% riders-allowed.
Driving CDL in Vermont
Vermont freight runs on I-89 and I-91 through a small market with low population density. Dairy products, specialty food manufacturing (Ben & Jerry's, Cabot, others), and building materials comprise most loads. Seasonal agriculture (apples, maple syrup in spring) adds volume. Cost of living is moderate to high; Vermont has a high graduated state income tax. Winter is long and severe; the state's lane network is narrower and more topographically constrained than New England neighbors. Cross-border trade with Quebec adds international-permitting consideration for some lanes.
Related guides
- Best trucking companies in Vermont
- Best owner-operator companies in Vermont
- CDL driver salary in the United States
How we compile these rankings
Compensation, FMCSA safety, benefits, and operational performance — weighted 30, 25, 25, and 20 percent respectively. Compensation extends beyond headline pay to include sign-on bonus tier and settlement cadence. Benefits scoring differs by hiring type because the perks that matter to a W2 driver and a contractor are not the same. Updated May 2026.