Local vs. Regional vs. OTR: Which Trucking Job is Best for You?
One of the first choices new drivers face is what kind of routes to take. Local, regional, and OTR (over-the-road) jobs all offer unique pros and cons. Let’s compare them to help you decide what’s best for your lifestyle and career goals.
Local Trucking
Home Time: Home every day
Route Type: Short hauls within a city or metro area
Typical Pay: $45,000 – $60,000/year
Pros:
- Consistent schedule
- More time with family
- Familiar routes
Cons:
- Lower starting pay
- More stops per day
- Heavy traffic or city driving
Regional Trucking
Home Time: Home weekly
Route Type: 1–2 day hauls within a region (e.g., Southwest, Midwest)
Typical Pay: $55,000 – $75,000/year
Pros:
- Balanced schedule
- Better pay than local
- Often less congested routes
Cons:
- Fewer job openings in some regions
- May still require overnight stays
Over-the-Road (OTR) Trucking
Home Time: Home every 2–4 weeks
Route Type: Cross-country hauls
Typical Pay: $65,000 – $90,000+/year
Pros:
- Highest earning potential
- See more of the country
- Great for building experience fast
Cons:
- Long time away from home
- More lifestyle sacrifices
What’s Right for You?
- Have a family at home? Local or regional may be ideal.
- Looking to maximize earnings? OTR pays the most.
- Want to gain experience quickly? OTR often leads to faster promotions.
Final Thoughts
At Truck Driving Schools of America, we prepare you for all types of trucking jobs. Our career advisors help match you with positions that fit your lifestyle, goals, and long-term success.
