Bus Drivers

Wages & Outlook

Wages

Pay varies with route, the service area, and the type of employer. In general, the larger the city, the more bus drivers are paid. Wages also change with the number of hours worked and miles driven.

Benefits vary by the type of route driven. Most intercity and local bus drivers receive health and life insurance, sick leave, and free bus rides. Full-time drivers may receive paid vacations. Local bus drivers may also receive a retirement plan and dental insurance.

View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:

• Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity

Employment

In Minnesota, about 4,311 bus drivers work in this medium-sized occupation.

Major employers:

• Government-sponsored local transportation systems
• Long distance bus companies
• Charter bus companies

Outlook

Prospects for bus drivers will be good due to a growing population and labor force. In some cities, students ride city buses instead of school buses. If this becomes a trend, more bus drivers may be needed in some cities. In addition, if gas prices continue to rise, more adults may begin taking the bus instead of driving their cars. Some cities are also expanding their bus systems to parts of town that previously did not have service. This will create more routes and the need for more drivers.

Employment of bus drivers doesn't vary much with the state of the economy. Layoffs are less likely among these workers than some other occupations. This is because people are more likely to ride the bus when the economy is weak in order to save money. In addition, students will still need transportation to school. However, competition for jobs can be strong during a weak economy. This is because the number of people who apply for openings will be greater than the number of jobs available.

Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.