Bus Driver Salaries in Maine — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a bus driver make in Maine? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $47,390/yr ($22.78/hr), with around 1,690 people working in this field statewide.
Bus Driver salaries in Maine are above the national average by approximately $1,803. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Strong demand and union representation mean bus drivers in Maine often earn above the national median.
Maine Bus Driver Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Maine after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Maine Bus Driver Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Maine median of $47,390.
Bus Driver Salary by Experience — Maine
Bus Driver Salary Trend in Maine — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFive-year wage growth for bus drivers in Maine: 13.9% — a useful benchmark when negotiating pay or planning a career move. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Maine's public transit and school transport.
Bus Driver Salary by City — Maine
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $52,600 | $25.29 | +11.0% | 591 |
| Lewiston | $50,250 | $24.16 | +6.0% | 473 |
| Bangor | $48,800 | $23.46 | +3.0% | 304 |
| South Portland | $45,500 | $21.88 | -4.0% | 152 |
| Auburn | $43,100 | $20.72 | -9.1% | 101 |
| Augusta | $41,250 | $19.83 | -13.0% | 67 |
Tip: Portland offers the highest bus driver salaries in Maine at $52,600/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Maine vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Maine sits in the mid-range for bus drivers.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Bus Driver Job Outlook in Maine
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for bus drivers in Maine is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Maine job market. Strong demand and union representation mean bus drivers in Maine often earn above the national median.
How to Earn More as a Bus Driver in Maine
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a bus driver in Maine typically adds $38,800 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State DMV — CDL Licence can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Portland pays bus drivers $52,600/yr — +11.0% above the Maine average. Simply relocating within Maine 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 Maine. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. New Hampshire pays bus drivers $47,700/yr — 0.7% vs Maine.
Find Bus Driver Jobs in Maine
Live ListingsSearch current bus driver job vacancies in Maine:
🔍 Bus Driver jobs in Maine — Indeed→ 🔍 Bus Driver jobs in Maine — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Bus Driver jobs — Portland, ME→