In April 2025, the average expected gross monthly salary for professional truck drivers was €3,357. This represents a drop of €18 compared to February – a small change that may signal temporary stabilisation in the labour market.
Clear regional differences
The salary map compiled by JobMatch reveals significant disparities in salary expectations across federal states.
In Saxony, drivers expect the highest pay in the country – an average of €3,500 gross. It is followed by Baden-Württemberg (€3,487), Hesse, Bavaria and Rhineland-Palatinate (each €3,425). North Rhine-Westphalia (€3,337) also exceeds the national average.
Image credits @ JobMatch
In economically weaker regions, salary expectations are considerably lower. In Saxony-Anhalt, the average desired salary is €3,062, in Thuringia €3,075, and in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania €3,100.
The figures are based on data from 1,833 actively job-seeking drivers whose applications were analysed by JobMatch in April 2025. The Salary Map is intended to track current wage trends and regional variations, with data updated monthly.
Working conditions increasingly important
More and more drivers are prioritising factors beyond salary when choosing an employer. According to JobMatch, the following aspects are now considered key:
- predictable work schedules,
- a modern fleet,
- training and development opportunities,
- respectful treatment by employers.
“High salary demands are only part of the picture. Fixed routes, guaranteed return home and professional treatment are becoming increasingly important,” the study’s authors note.
Additional perks, such as fuel vouchers, healthcare benefits and employee pension schemes, also play a role in decision-making.
Driver shortage remains a pressing issue
Despite the slight drop in salary expectations, the labour market remains tight. In many regions, the number of vacancies still exceeds the number of drivers willing to work. As a result, companies need to compete not just on pay but on the overall quality of employment.
As industry representatives point out, long-term employment helps reduce recruitment costs and improve operational stability. Employers that offer more than just a competitive wage now hold a distinct advantage.
