Retail Salespersons
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Sell merchandise, such as furniture, motor vehicles, appliances, or apparel to consumers.
Median pay: $35,410/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -0.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 555,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Greet customers and ascertain what each customer wants or needs.
• Recommend, select, and help locate or obtain merchandise based on customer needs and desires.
• Compute sales prices, total purchases, and receive and process cash or credit payment.
• Prepare merchandise for purchase or rental.
• Answer questions regarding the store and its merchandise.
• Maintain knowledge of current sales and promotions, policies regarding payment and exchanges, and security practices.
• Demonstrate use or operation of merchandise.
• Describe merchandise and explain use, operation, and care of merchandise to customers.
What's the median pay for Retail Salespersons?
The median pay for Retail Salespersons is $35,410 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Retail Salespersons?
Employment for Retail Salespersons is projected to change -0.5% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Retail Salespersons?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Retail Salespersons?
About 555,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.