CDL Truck Driver vs Railroad Track Worker: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a cdl truck driver or a railroad track worker? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🚛 CDL Truck Driver | 🛤️ Railroad Track Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $24.20/hr | $30/hr |
| Median Annual | $50,300/yr | $62,400/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 4.0% | 3.0% |
| Total Jobs | 2,010,200 | 22,500 |
| Training Time | 3-6 months CDL training | On-the-job training (6-12 months) |
| Top-Paying State | Alaska ($70,200/yr) | Alaska ($84,200/yr) |
| Union Rate | $30/hr (Teamsters) | $37.50/hr (BMWED) |
Salary Comparison
CDL Truck Drivers earn about $12,000/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both cdl truck drivers and railroad track workers are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🚛 Choose CDL Truck Driver if...
CDL truck drivers haul freight across local routes or long-distance highways. The ongoing driver shortage means competitive pay, sign-on bonuses, and plenty of job options for qualified drivers.
CDL Truck Driver salary data →🛤️ Choose Railroad Track Worker if...
Railroad track workers lay, maintain, and repair railroad tracks, switches, and roadbeds. The work involves heavy physical labor and often requires travel, but the pay and railroad union benefits are strong.
Railroad Track Worker salary data →Training difference: Railroad requires OJT (6-12 months) vs CDL (3-6 months)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Railroad Track Workers earn a slightly higher national median of $62,400/yr compared to $50,300/yr for cdl truck drivers.
CDL Truck Driver jobs are projected to grow at 4.0% over the next decade, compared to 3.0% for railroad track workers.
Railroad requires OJT (6-12 months) vs CDL (3-6 months). Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.