How Much Do Monster Truck Drivers Make?

Monster truck driving is a thrilling and lucrative profession. However, Monster Truck Drivers can earn a wide range of salaries depending on experience, location, and skill level. In this article, we’ll look at the average wage of Monster Truck Drivers, how much the highest-paid driver earns, and the costs of owning and operating a monster truck.

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Monster Truck Drivers’ Salaries: How Much Do They Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Monster Truck Drivers in the United States make an average salary of $114,493 per year or $55 per hour. The top 10 percent earns over $283,000 annually, while the bottom 10 percent earns less than $10,500 annually. Nationwide, about 1,200 employed Monster Truck Drivers earn an average salary of $111,780 annually. However, salaries vary widely depending on experience, skill, employer, and location. Additionally, many Monster Truck Drivers earn extra income through sponsorships and appearance fees.

For example, Morgan Kane, the driver of Grave Digger, has earned over $300,000 in a single season from these additional sources of income. Other earnings can also come from winning competitions. The annual Monster Jam World Finals offer a total prize purse of $250,000, with the winner taking home $50,000. Although most Monster Jam drivers’ salaries are lower than the top performers, they can still make a good living driving Monster trucks. The median wage for a Monster Truck Driver is $50,915, meaning half of all Monster Truck Drivers earn more than this amount, and half earn less.

How Much Does a Real Monster Truck Cost?

Monster trucks are awe-inspiring vehicles that can reach up to 100 miles per hour and soar over 20 feet in the air. However, they are costly. The average cost of a truck is $250,000, and it takes a crew of about 18 to 20 hours over three days to create a track and jumps at the arenas and stadiums hosting Monster Jam. Nevertheless, the costs associated with owning and operating a monster truck are more than offset by the thrill of performing in front of legions of fans. For many people, the experience of driving a monster truck is worth every penny.

How Much Does the Driver of Grave Digger Make?

Grave Digger is one of the best-paying options for Monster Truck Drivers. Glassdoor reports that the Grave Digger monster truck driver’s salary is $25,010. However, salaries can range from $18,280 to $41,780, depending on experience and location.

Who Is the Highest-Paid Monster Truck Driver?

Dennis Anderson is the highest-paid Monster Truck Driver in the world, with a net worth of $3 million. Anderson began his career in the early 1980s and quickly rose to prominence in competitive monster truck racing. He has won numerous championships and holds several world records. Anderson’s signature truck is Grave Digger, one of the sport’s most popular and recognizable trucks.

In addition to his racing career, Anderson has appeared in television shows and movies, including Monster Jam. He is currently the owner and operator of Dennis Anderson Promotions. This company promotes and produces monster truck events worldwide.

Is It Difficult to Drive a Monster Truck?

Driving a monster truck is challenging despite its outward appearance of ease. Steering and braking require skill, with their weight exceeding 12,000 pounds, four-wheel drive, and colossal tires. Additionally, drivers must navigate the track and avoid obstacles while being able to see over the top of the truck’s cab.

Becoming a monster truck driver requires a valid commercial driver’s license and the completion of a training course on how to operate the truck safely. After fulfilling these requirements, drivers can compete in events.

What is the Cost of Monster Truck Tires?

Monster truck tires are a substantial investment, ranging from $1500 to over $3000 per tire. The cost of a tire is influenced by the materials used, tread patterns, and features such as reinforced sidewalls that protect against punctures.

The highest-quality monster truck tires are the most expensive, offering more durability and better tread patterns that provide superior grip on a broader range of terrains. Less expensive tires sacrifice durability and performance but remain a budget-friendly option.

When choosing monster truck tires, it’s crucial to consider the tire’s weight, intended use, and budget. With a wide variety of options available, there’s sure to be a tire perfect for every application and budget.

Are Monster Truck Shows Scripted?

According to Mahon, Monster Jam competitions are not staged, and no scripting is involved. He emphasizes that truck drivers are professionals who have worked tirelessly to perfect their skills. The show is entertaining, and women’s competitors receive equal respect as men. The trucks are well-maintained, and the drivers are experienced in operating them, ensuring real competition.

Conclusion

Monster truck drivers are true athletes who have honed their skills through hard work and dedication. These massive machines require skillful driving due to their size, weight, four-wheel drive, and colossal tires. In addition to racing, many drivers also appear in television shows and movies. Becoming a driver involves a commercial driver’s license and training. Monster truck tires cost between $1500 and over $3000, with options that suit different budgets and applications. Mahon argues that Monster Jam competitions are not staged, and drivers are professionals who have earned respect through hard work and experience.

About the author, Laurence Perkins

Laurence Perkins is the passionate car enthusiast behind the blog My Auto Machine. With over a decade of experience in the automotive industry, Perkins has knowledge and experience with a wide range of car makes and models. His particular interests lie in performance and modification, and his blog covers these topics in-depth. In addition to his own blog, Perkins is a respected voice in the automotive community and writes for various automotive publications. His insights and opinions on cars are highly sought-after.