Salary of a Trashman: Earnings and Hourly Wages
Andrew Adams
Published Jan 14, 2026
Have you ever wondered how much a trashman earns? In this article, we’ll explore the salary of a trashman, including their hourly wages and factors that influence their earnings. Whether you’re considering a career in waste management or simply curious about the compensation in this field, read on to discover the insights.
Key Takeaways:
- The average hourly wage for garbage men in the United States in 2019 was $19.90, translating to an approximate annual salary of $41,400.
- Location, employer, and employment sector are factors that influence the salary of a garbage man.
- Garbage men working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher wages due to differences in the cost of living.
- States like Washington, California, and Alaska offer some of the highest average salaries for garbage collectors.
- The job outlook for garbage collectors is positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% between 2018 and 2028.
Factors Influencing Garbage Man Salary
The salary of a garbage man can be influenced by various factors, including location, employer, and employment sector. Let’s explore these factors in detail:
Location
The location where a garbage man works can significantly impact their earnings. Garbage men working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher wages compared to those in nonmetropolitan areas due to differences in the cost of living. States like Illinois, New York, and California, as well as the far west and northwest regions, reported some of the highest average wages for garbage collectors.
Employer
The type of employer can also affect the wages of a garbage man. Garbage men employed by state governments often earn higher hourly wages compared to those employed by local governments or private waste collection companies. The difference in pay can be attributed to various factors, including budget allocations, funding sources, and government regulations.
Employment Sector
The employment sector in which a garbage man works can also influence their salary. Garbage men employed by waste management companies may receive different compensation packages compared to those working in municipal sanitation departments. The specific dynamics of each sector, such as industry competition, contract agreements, and governmental policies, can impact wage levels.
Understanding these factors is essential for both individuals considering a career as a garbage man and employers aiming to attract and retain skilled workers. By recognizing the key determinants of garbage worker earnings, employers can develop competitive compensation packages, while individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths.
Average Garbage Man Salaries by Location and Employer Type
| Location | Employer Type | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| New York | State Government | $25.45 |
| California | State Government | $24.72 |
| Illinois | State Government | $23.98 |
| New York | Local Government | $21.80 |
| California | Local Government | $20.93 |
| Illinois | Local Government | $20.23 |
| New York | Private Waste Collection | $18.65 |
| California | Private Waste Collection | $18.04 |
| Illinois | Private Waste Collection | $17.48 |
Garbage Man Job Outlook
Looking for a stable and rewarding career? The job outlook for garbage men in the United States is bright. With a projected job growth rate of 8% between 2018 and 2028, the demand for garbage collectors is expected to increase, surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations.
As of 2019, there were approximately 121,330 garbage collectors employed nationwide, and this number is only expected to grow in the coming years. The rising population, along with increased income levels, has led to an increased demand for waste management services, including the collection and disposal of garbage. Furthermore, with the growing emphasis on recycling and sustainable practices, the need for specialized workers in the waste management industry remains strong.
The garbage man job outlook is particularly promising in metropolitan areas, where the population density and urban infrastructure create a higher demand for waste collection services. States such as California, New York, and Illinois offer some of the most employment opportunities and competitive wages for garbage collectors. Additionally, advancements in technology and waste management techniques have created new job openings in recycling facilities and waste treatment centers, providing even more avenues for career growth in the industry.
In summary, if you’re considering a career as a garbage man, the job outlook is positive. The demand for garbage collectors continues to grow, driven by population growth, heightened environmental awareness, and the need for efficient waste management. With opportunities for advancement and competitive wages, this field offers stability and long-term prospects for those seeking employment in garbage collection and waste management.
Pay by Experience Level for Garbage Men
Garbage men earn varying pay based on their level of experience. As is the case with many professions, the more experience they have, the higher their compensation tends to be. Let’s take a closer look at how pay levels for garbage men evolve over time:
- Entry-Level: Garbage men with less than 1 year of experience can expect an average total compensation of $16.25.
- Early Career: Those in the early career stage, with 1-4 years of experience, earn an average total compensation of $15.94.
- Mid-Career & Beyond: As garbage men gain more experience, their compensation tends to increase. Mid-career, late career, and experienced workers see higher pay rates, reflecting their expertise and tenure in the industry.
It’s important to note that these figures represent average total compensation, which includes not only the base salary but also any bonuses, overtime pay, or other additional compensation that garbage men may receive based on their experience and performance.
“The more experience garbage men have in the industry, the higher their compensation tends to be. This is reflective of their growing expertise and the value they bring to waste management organizations.”
Highest Paying States for Garbage Collectors
When it comes to earning potential, the state you work in can have a significant impact on your paycheck as a garbage collector. Certain states offer higher average salaries for garbage workers, providing better financial opportunities for those in the industry. If you’re looking to maximize your earnings as a garbage man, consider these top-paying states:
- Washington: With an average annual salary of $43,551, Washington tops the list as the highest paying state for garbage collectors.
- California: Garbage workers in California earn an average yearly salary of $41,558, making it another lucrative state in terms of garbage man wages.
- Alaska: Known for its high cost of living, Alaska offers attractive compensation for garbage collectors, with average annual salaries reaching $40,924.
- Utah: Garbage workers in Utah can expect average annual salaries of $38,938, making it one of the top states for garbage worker salaries.
- Oregon: In Oregon, garbage collectors earn an average yearly salary of $34,955, providing a competitive wage for professionals in the industry.
Other states with relatively high wage levels for garbage men include Nevada, Wyoming, and Texas. On the other hand, states like South Carolina, Tennessee, and Mississippi tend to have lower average salaries for garbage collectors.
While the highest paying states offer attractive salaries, it’s essential to consider factors such as cost of living, job availability, and personal preferences when deciding on your career path as a garbage collector.
Job Duties of a Garbage Man
Garbage men, also known as refuse collectors, play a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in our communities. Their responsibilities include:
- Driving along designated routes to collect trash and recycling materials
- Operating garbage trucks equipped with hydraulic lifts to pick up trash containers
- Depending on the setup, some garbage men may not need to get out of the truck, while others may manually lift and deposit trash into the truck
- Ensuring timely pickup of garbage, usually in the early morning hours
Garbage men are committed to keeping our streets clean and free from waste. Their attention to detail and dedication are essential in maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.
Qualifications and Education for Garbage Men
Becoming a garbage man typically does not require extensive formal education. Most positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, there may be additional requirements such as the possession of a valid driver’s license and the ability to pass a physical examination.
Some employers may offer on-the-job training to familiarize new garbage men with safety procedures, equipment operation, and waste management practices.
Here are the qualifications and education requirements for garbage men:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to pass a physical examination
“Becoming a garbage man is a great career choice for those who prefer hands-on work and want to contribute to their communities. While formal education requirements are minimal, it’s essential to possess a high school diploma and a valid driver’s license. With on-the-job training provided by many employers, aspiring garbage men can quickly learn the necessary skills and safety procedures to excel in this role.”
Additional Considerations for Garbage Man Salary
In addition to factors like location and employer, there are other considerations that can affect the salary of a garbage man. These include:
- The size and population of the area they serve
- The volume of trash collected
- The specific responsibilities assigned
Garbage truck drivers, for example, may earn slightly higher wages than those who primarily handle collection and sorting tasks.
Moreover, overtime opportunities or bonuses for working in hazardous conditions can also impact the overall earnings of garbage workers.
It is important to note that the garbage man salary factors mentioned above can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the job and the policies of the employing organization.
For a visual representation of the additional considerations for garbage man salary, refer to the table below:
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Size and population of the area | The larger the area and population, the higher the demand for garbage collection services, which can potentially lead to increased wages for garbage men. |
| Volume of trash collected | If garbage collectors are required to handle a significant amount of trash or work in areas with high waste generation, it can positively impact their salary. |
| Specific responsibilities assigned | Different garbage men may have varying duties and responsibilities that can influence their wage rates. For example, drivers may earn more than individuals solely responsible for pick-up and sorting. |
| Overtime and hazardous conditions | Working additional hours or facing hazardous conditions can often lead to higher earnings through overtime pay or special compensation. |
Advancement Opportunities for Garbage Men
While starting as an entry-level position, a career as a garbage man offers various opportunities for advancement and professional growth. As garbage men gain experience and prove their competence, they can progress to supervisory roles within the waste management industry. In these positions, they oversee and coordinate the work of other garbage workers, ensuring smooth operations and efficient garbage collection.
Another avenue for career growth is specialization. Garbage men can choose to focus on specific areas within waste management, such as recycling or hazardous waste disposal. By developing expertise in these specialized fields, they can become invaluable assets to their employers and open doors to higher-paying positions.
For those looking to further enhance their career prospects, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in environmental studies or waste management can be beneficial. These educational qualifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can qualify garbage workers for more senior roles or specialized positions in the industry.
FAQ
What is the average salary of a trashman?
The average salary of a trashman, also known as a garbage collector or refuse collector, was approximately ,400 per year in 2019.
What factors can influence the salary of a garbage man?
The salary of a garbage man can be influenced by factors such as location, employer, and employment sector. Garbage men working in metropolitan areas and for state governments tend to earn higher wages compared to those in nonmetropolitan areas or employed by local governments or private waste collection companies.
What is the job outlook for garbage men?
The job outlook for garbage men is positive, with a projected job growth rate of 8% between 2018 and 2028, which is higher than the average for all occupations. Factors such as population growth, increased income levels, and the emphasis on recycling contribute to the demand for garbage collectors.
How does the pay for garbage men vary based on experience?
The pay for garbage men varies based on experience. Entry-level garbage men with less than 1 year of experience can expect an average total compensation of .25, while those in the early career stage (1-4 years of experience) earn an average total compensation of .94. As garbage men gain more experience, their compensation tends to increase.
Which states offer the highest average salaries for garbage collectors?
The highest paying states for garbage collectors in the United States include Washington, California, Alaska, Utah, and Oregon. These states offer average annual salaries ranging from ,955 to ,551.
What are the job duties of a garbage man?
Garbage men, also known as refuse collectors, are responsible for driving along designated routes and collecting trash and recycling materials. They typically operate garbage trucks equipped with hydraulic lifts to pick up trash containers. Depending on the setup, some garbage men may not need to get out of the truck, while others may manually lift and deposit trash into the truck.
What qualifications and education are required to become a garbage man?
Becoming a garbage man typically does not require extensive formal education. Most positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, there may be additional requirements such as the possession of a valid driver’s license and the ability to pass a physical examination.
What are some additional considerations that can affect the salary of a garbage man?
In addition to factors like location and employer, the size and population of the area served, the volume of trash collected, the specific responsibilities assigned, and the role of a garbage man (e.g., garbage truck driver versus collection and sorting tasks) can affect their salary. Overtime opportunities or bonuses for working in hazardous conditions can also impact overall earnings.
Are there advancement opportunities for garbage men?
Yes, there are advancement opportunities for garbage men. They can progress to supervisory roles where they oversee other workers or choose to specialize in waste management, recycling, or other related areas. Gaining advanced degrees or certifications in environmental studies or waste management can enhance career prospects and potentially lead to higher-paying positions within the industry.
