Forklift Driver salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Forklift Driver in United States is approximately 35,501 USD (35,359 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Forklift Driver do?

A forklift driver is responsible for operating a forklift to move, stack, load, or unload materials within a warehouse, construction site, or manufacturing facility. They ensure that materials are safely transported to the desired location, following proper handling and storage procedures. Forklift drivers inspect and maintain the forklift, report any malfunctions or damages, and may be required to perform basic maintenance tasks. They also assist in inventory management by organizing and counting materials, and may collaborate with other team members to fulfill orders or complete projects efficiently.

Skills: Forklift operator, Material handling, Warehouse logistics, Construction site, Manufacturing facility, Inventory management.
Job industry: Transportation and warehousing

How much does Forklift Driver make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Forklift Driver a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Forklift Driver is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Forklift Driver might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Forklift Driver?

High salary for Forklift Driver would be somewhere between 39,051 USD and 51,476 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Forklift Driver in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 35,501 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 2,958 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 683 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 17 USD per hour
By working as Forklift Driver a person can save up to 667 USD per month or 7,999 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Forklift Driver

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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