Bus Driver Salaries in Idaho — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026The median bus driver salary in Idaho is $42,070 per year, equivalent to $20.23/hr, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS programme. Idaho employs approximately 2,010 bus drivers statewide.
Bus Driver salaries in Idaho are below the national average by approximately $3,517. Idaho has a state income tax rate of up to 5.8%.
Strong population growth and an expanding economy support healthy demand for bus drivers in Idaho.
Idaho Bus Driver Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Idaho after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Idaho has a state income tax rate of up to 5.8%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Idaho has a state income tax rate of up to 5.8%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Idaho Bus Driver Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Idaho median of $42,070.
Bus Driver Salary by Experience — Idaho
Bus Driver Salary Trend in Idaho — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFive-year wage growth for bus drivers in Idaho: 13.9% — a useful benchmark when negotiating pay or planning a career move. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Idaho's public transit and school transport.
Bus Driver Salary by City — Idaho
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boise | $46,700 | $22.45 | +11.0% | 703 |
| Nampa | $44,600 | $21.44 | +6.0% | 562 |
| Meridian | $43,350 | $20.84 | +3.0% | 361 |
| Idaho Falls | $40,400 | $19.42 | -4.0% | 180 |
| Pocatello | $38,300 | $18.41 | -9.0% | 120 |
| Caldwell | $36,600 | $17.60 | -13.0% | 80 |
Tip: Boise offers the highest bus driver salaries in Idaho at $46,700/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Idaho vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Idaho sits in the mid-range for bus drivers.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Idaho has a state income tax rate of up to 5.8%.
Bus Driver Job Outlook in Idaho
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for bus drivers in Idaho is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Idaho job market. Strong population growth and an expanding economy support healthy demand for bus drivers in Idaho.
How to Earn More as a Bus Driver in Idaho
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a bus driver in Idaho typically adds $34,500 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State DMV — CDL Licence can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Boise pays bus drivers $46,700/yr — +11.0% above the Idaho average. Simply relocating within Idaho can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Bus Drivers who specialise in public transit and school transport typically command premium rates in Idaho. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Montana pays bus drivers $45,810/yr — 8.9% vs Idaho.
Find Bus Driver Jobs in Idaho
Live ListingsSearch current bus driver job vacancies in Idaho:
🔍 Bus Driver jobs in Idaho — Indeed→ 🔍 Bus Driver jobs in Idaho — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Bus Driver jobs — Boise, ID→