Arkansas is a vital hub for trucking in the U.S., thanks to its strategic location and strong ties to agriculture, retail, manufacturing, and logistics. With national carriers headquartered in the state and consistent demand for drivers, Arkansas offers stable and rewarding trucking careers for both new and experienced CDL holders.
Below, we break down current truck driver salaries in Arkansas, top-paying cities, industries that offer the best opportunities, and how CDL eXpert can help you launch your trucking career.
How Much Do Truck Drivers Make in Arkansas?
Truck driver earnings in Arkansas vary based on experience, type of CDL, endorsements, and freight type. Here’s a breakdown using 2024 data:
Entry-Level Drivers – New CDL holders can expect to earn $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
Experienced Drivers – With several years of experience, salaries typically rise to $55,000 to $75,000 annually.
Class A CDL Drivers – Long-haul or specialized freight drivers can earn between $60,000 and $85,000.
Owner-Operators – Independent drivers in Arkansas can earn between $150,000 to $240,000+ annually depending on operating costs and contracts.
According to Zippia, the average truck driver salary in Arkansas in 2024 is $52,454 per year, or $25.22/hour — and that can increase significantly with endorsements or specialized routes.
Check out our article on the cost of obtaining your CDL in Arkansas to learn more.
Highest-Paying Cities and Regions for Truck Drivers in Arkansas
Some cities in Arkansas offer higher pay due to demand, freight volume, and proximity to major carriers. Here are the top-paying regions:
Springdale – Home to Tyson Foods, truckers here average $65,000+ per year.
Fort Smith – A major industrial center with salaries ranging from $58,000 to $82,000.
Little Rock – The state capital and logistics hub offers salaries between $60,000 and $85,000.
Fayetteville/Rogers/Bentonville – A booming region with large retail and food distribution networks, averaging $63,000 to $88,000.
Jonesboro – A key agricultural and food processing area, with pay ranging from $55,000 to $75,000.
Long-haul and specialized freight drivers typically earn more than local or intrastate delivery drivers.
Top-Paying Industries for Truck Drivers in Arkansas
Arkansas’s economy supports several industries with high demand for skilled CDL drivers:
Retail Distribution – Walmart’s global headquarters is in Bentonville, and its massive freight needs create stable, well-paying jobs.
Agriculture Transport – Arkansas leads in poultry, rice, and soybean production. Agriculture-related freight is in constant demand.
Food & Refrigerated Freight – Tyson Foods and other companies generate consistent reefer routes with competitive pay.
HazMat & Tanker Freight – Transporting chemicals, fuel, or other hazardous materials pays premium rates with proper endorsements.
Timber & Paper Products – Hauling logs and forestry products across the region offers additional income opportunities.
Adding endorsements such as HazMat, Tanker, or Doubles/Triples can boost earnings by 10–30 percent.
What Affects Truck Driver Pay in Arkansas?
Several key factors influence truck driver salaries across Arkansas:
Experience Level – More experienced drivers qualify for higher-paying routes and contracts.
CDL Endorsements – HazMat, Tanker, and similar endorsements open doors to better-paying positions.
Freight Type – Specialized cargo (e.g., oversized loads, reefer, HazMat) commands higher wages.
Route Type – Over-the-road (OTR) and regional drivers typically earn more than those driving local or day routes.
How to Earn More as a Truck Driver in Arkansas
Looking to increase your earning potential? Here’s how:
Earn CDL Endorsements – Certifications like HazMat, Tanker, and Doubles/Triples make you eligible for premium jobs.
Choose High-Demand Industries – Focus on sectors like retail distribution, poultry/agriculture, or refrigerated freight.
Look for Bonuses – Arkansas-based carriers often offer sign-on, referral, or safety bonuses.
Consider OTR or Regional Routes – These usually offer higher pay than local-only positions.
Become an Owner-Operator – If you have experience, running your own truck can be highly profitable in Arkansas’s freight-rich environment.
Is Trucking a Good Career in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas’s economy depends on freight movement, and with a central U.S. location, it's a trucking hotspot. Major employers like J.B. Hunt, Walmart, and Tyson Foods ensure steady demand for CDL drivers. Plus, infrastructure investment and expanding agricultural exports mean long-term job stability.
For those looking for a high-paying, flexible, and in-demand career, trucking in Arkansas is a strong choice.
How CDL eXpert Can Help You Start Your Trucking Career
CDL eXpert provides FMCSA-registered ELDT training that helps you get on the road fast and affordably.
FMCSA-Registered ELDT Training – Our program is on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
Flexible Online Learning – Learn at your own pace from any device.
Job Placement Assistance – We connect you with top employers in Arkansas.
Affordable Training Options – Payment plans, grants, and scholarships available.
Start Your Trucking Career in Arkansas Today
Whether you're brand new to trucking or looking to upskill, CDL eXpert is here to help. With our training and job placement support, you’ll be on the road toward a high-paying, stable career in no time.
Take the first step — enroll today and drive your future forward.
FAQs
What is the average salary for truck drivers in Arkansas? As of 2024, truck drivers in Arkansas earn $52,454 per year on average, with the potential to earn more based on experience and endorsements.
What cities pay the most for truck drivers in Arkansas? Top-paying regions include Springdale, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and Little Rock.
Which industries offer the highest pay? Retail logistics (Walmart), poultry and agriculture (Tyson), HazMat freight, and refrigerated transport offer some of the best salaries.
How do I start? Sign up for CDL training with CDL eXpert to begin your high-paying trucking career in Arkansas.
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