Retail Sales Associate Salaries

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Retail Sales Associate make?

The average salary for a Retail Sales Associate is $56,270 per year in the US.

A Retail Sales Associate often earns a competitive salary. On average, they make around $56,270 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of retail store. For those just starting, the average salary is around $24,000. As experience grows, so does the salary. With more than ten years in the field, a Retail Sales Associate can earn up to $165,000 annually.

Several factors can influence the salary of a Retail Sales Associate. These include the size of the store, the brand, and the region. For example, working in a high-end boutique may offer a higher salary compared to a discount store. Similarly, retail jobs in urban areas often pay more than those in rural areas. Experience and skills also play a crucial role in determining salary. Those with strong customer service skills and sales experience often earn higher wages.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Retail Sales Associate?

Retail Sales Associate jobs offer good pay in many cities. Minneapolis, MN, leads with the highest average salary. Baltimore, MD, and Madison, WI, also provide strong earnings. These cities attract top talent with competitive wages. Augusta, GA, and Midland, TX, follow closely behind. Richmond, VA, and Lincoln, NE, offer solid salaries too. Milwaukee, WI, Louisville, KY, and Columbia, MO, round out the list of top-paying locations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Retail Sales Associate jobs, highlighting Minneapolis, MN with the highest at $101,146 and Columbia, MO with the lowest at $71,133.
  1. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $101,146
    In Minneapolis, you can find a variety of retail stores. With major companies like Target and Best Buy, you will have many opportunities to work. The city's vibrant atmosphere makes for an engaging work environment.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  2. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $87,424
    Baltimore offers a mix of urban and suburban retail settings. With prominent stores like Macy's and Whole Foods, you can expect a dynamic work experience. The city's rich history adds a unique charm to your daily tasks.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Baltimore, MD


  3. Madison, WI
    Average Salary: $82,659
    Madison is known for its friendly community and vibrant retail scene. Working at stores like Kohl's and Round 1 Entertainment, you will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. The city's focus on education and culture enhances your work environment.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Madison, WI


  4. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $80,405
    Augusta provides a warm and welcoming retail environment. With stores like Belk and PetSmart, you will have diverse opportunities. The city's Southern hospitality makes for a pleasant work experience.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Augusta, GA


  5. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $78,499
    Midland offers a laid-back retail experience. Working at places like Walmart and Ross Stores, you will find a supportive work culture. The city's strong community ties create a friendly atmosphere.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Midland, TX


  6. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $75,055
    Richmond has a mix of historic and modern retail stores. With companies like Staples and Lowe's, you will enjoy a diverse work environment. The city's rich history adds depth to your daily tasks.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Richmond, VA


  7. Lincoln, NE
    Average Salary: $74,340
    Lincoln provides a friendly and supportive retail environment. Working at stores like Scheels and Cabela's, you will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. The city's strong community spirit enhances your work experience.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Lincoln, NE


  8. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $73,424
    Milwaukee offers a vibrant retail scene with stores like Menards and Kohl's. You will enjoy a dynamic work environment. The city's rich cultural heritage adds a unique charm to your daily tasks.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Milwaukee, WI


  9. Louisville, KY
    Average Salary: $71,598
    Louisville provides a diverse retail environment. With stores like Kroger and Dick's Sporting Goods, you will have many opportunities. The city's lively atmosphere makes for an engaging work experience.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Louisville, KY


  10. Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $71,133
    Columbia offers a supportive and engaging retail environment. Working at stores like Target and PetSmart, you will enjoy a friendly atmosphere. The city's focus on education and culture enhances your work experience.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Columbia, MO

What are the best companies a Retail Sales Associate can work for?

Car Pros Automotive Group offers one of the highest salaries for Retail Sales Associate positions, with an average of $243,494. Staples also provides a competitive salary, averaging $240,467. These companies value their sales associates and offer attractive compensation packages. Everlight Solar and Entourage Events Group also rank well, with average salaries of $225,000 and $200,000, respectively. These companies recognize the importance of skilled sales associates and reward them accordingly. Job seekers can find rewarding opportunities with these top-paying companies.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Retail Sales Associate jobs, highlighting Car Pros Automotive Group with the highest at $243,494 and Sovereign Security with the lowest at $170,894.
  1. Car Pros Automotive Group
    Average Salary: $243,494
    Car Pros Automotive Group offers competitive salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in various locations, providing opportunities for sales professionals. Positions are available in areas like Seattle, Los Angeles, and Miami.


  2. Staples
    Average Salary: $240,467
    Staples provides a rewarding environment for Retail Sales Associates. They have stores across the country, including New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. Sales Associates here enjoy a supportive team and a dynamic work environment.


  3. Everlight Solar
    Average Salary: $225,000
    Everlight Solar offers high salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They focus on renewable energy solutions and have locations in Phoenix, Denver, and Portland. Working here means being part of a growing industry with excellent benefits.


  4. Entourage Events Group
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Entourage Events Group provides attractive salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They manage events in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. This company values creativity and teamwork, making it a great place to work.


  5. Windows Plus
    Average Salary: $190,433
    Windows Plus offers competitive pay for Retail Sales Associates. They serve customers in cities such as Dallas, Atlanta, and San Diego. This company emphasizes customer satisfaction and professional growth.


  6. Renewal by Andersen
    Average Salary: $189,506
    Renewal by Andersen provides good salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in many locations, including Boston, Philadelphia, and Houston. Working here means being part of a well-established company with a strong reputation.


  7. WindMar Home
    Average Salary: $186,842
    WindMar Home offers attractive salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in cities like Charlotte, Nashville, and Austin. This company focuses on quality and customer service, making it a great place to work.


  8. Roofing World
    Average Salary: $185,000
    Roofing World provides competitive pay for Retail Sales Associates. They serve customers in cities such as Minneapolis, Columbus, and Salt Lake City. This company values hard work and dedication, offering a supportive work environment.


  9. CastleRock Communities
    Average Salary: $172,588
    CastleRock Communities offers good salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in various locations, including Denver, Phoenix, and San Diego. This company emphasizes community and professional development.


  10. Sovereign Security
    Average Salary: $170,894
    Sovereign Security provides competitive pay for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Houston. This company values safety and security, making it a great place for sales professionals.

How to earn more as a Retail Sales Associate?

A Retail Sales Associate can find many ways to increase earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can boost both sales performance and personal income. This approach not only benefits the individual but also enhances the overall customer experience.

Here are several factors that can lead to higher earnings:

  1. Increase Sales Volume: Focus on selling more products. This can be achieved by upselling and cross-selling techniques. Recommending complementary items to customers can increase the total sale amount.
  2. Boost Customer Satisfaction: Happy customers are more likely to return. Providing excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
  3. Learn Product Knowledge: Understanding the products well allows for more confident and knowledgeable sales. This can lead to higher sales and customer trust.
  4. Improve Time Management: Efficiently managing time can lead to more sales opportunities. Being available to assist customers promptly can increase sales chances.
  5. Seek Performance Bonuses: Many retail stores offer bonuses for meeting or exceeding sales targets. Aim for these bonuses by setting and achieving personal sales goals.

Currently 13,505 Retail Sales Associate job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Retail Sales Associate in the US?

Learn what a Retail Sales Associate does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Retail Sales Associate today.
Position
Overview
Retail Sales Associate
13,505 Job Openings