Retail Sales Associate Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Retail Sales Associate make?

The average salary for a Retail Sales Associate is $53,123 per year in the US.

A Retail Sales Associate often finds a rewarding career in the retail industry. This role involves helping customers find the products they need and making sales. The average salary for a Retail Sales Associate is around $53,123 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of retail store.

Retail Sales Associates can expect to earn more as they gain experience. Entry-level positions may start at around $24,000 per year. With a few years of experience, salaries can rise to about $49,636. Those with more experience and in higher-paying regions can earn upwards of $165,000 annually. Factors like bonuses, commissions, and benefits can also affect total earnings.

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

Retail Sales Associates can find some of the best pay in Minneapolis, MN, where the average salary is over $101,000. Augusta, GA, and Baltimore, MD, also offer strong salaries, with Augusta at nearly $90,000 and Baltimore at around $89,000. Madison, WI, and Midland, TX, follow closely behind, providing competitive wages for those in the retail industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Retail Sales Associate jobs, highlighting Minneapolis, MN with the highest at $101,869 and Wilmington, NC with the lowest at $72,979.
  1. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $101,869
    In Minneapolis, you can find a variety of retail stores, from big chains to local boutiques. Working here offers a dynamic environment with many opportunities to connect with customers and grow your sales skills. Companies like Target and Best Buy provide excellent training and career advancement.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  2. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $89,036
    Augusta offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for retail workers. The city's growing retail sector includes stores like Publix and Lowe's. Employees enjoy a friendly community and a chance to build lasting customer relationships.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Augusta, GA


  3. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $88,655
    Baltimore's retail scene is vibrant and diverse. Working here means you'll be part of a bustling city with many shopping options. Retailers like Macy's and Whole Foods offer great opportunities for professional growth and development.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Baltimore, MD


  4. Madison, WI
    Average Salary: $82,919
    Madison is known for its vibrant culture and friendly people. Retail jobs here offer a great mix of work and leisure. Stores like Kohl's and Round1 Bowling provide a supportive environment to enhance your sales skills.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Madison, WI


  5. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $80,189
    Midland offers a smaller, community-focused retail environment. Working here means you'll get to know your customers well. Retailers like Walmart and H-E-B provide a stable and rewarding work experience.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Midland, TX


  6. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $75,415
    Richmond's retail market is rich with history and modern growth. Working here means you'll be part of a city that values both tradition and innovation. Stores like Kroger and Staples offer excellent career opportunities.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Richmond, VA


  7. Louisville, KY
    Average Salary: $74,833
    Louisville's retail sector is lively and diverse. Working here offers many opportunities to engage with customers and grow your skills. Retailers like Meijer and Dick's Sporting Goods provide a dynamic work environment.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Louisville, KY


  8. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $74,104
    Milwaukee's retail scene is vibrant and community-oriented. Working here means you'll be part of a city that values local businesses. Stores like Menards and Round1 Bowling provide a supportive environment for career growth.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Milwaukee, WI


  9. Lincoln, NE
    Average Salary: $74,022
    Lincoln offers a welcoming and friendly retail environment. Working here means you'll be part of a close-knit community. Retailers like Hy-Vee and Scheels provide a supportive environment to enhance your sales skills.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Lincoln, NE


  10. Wilmington, NC
    Average Salary: $72,979
    Wilmington's retail market is growing and diverse. Working here offers many opportunities to connect with customers and grow your skills. Stores like Target and Lowe's provide a dynamic work environment.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Wilmington, NC

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

Staples offers one of the best-paying jobs for Retail Sales Associates, with an average salary of $294,982. Car Pros Automotive Group also provides a competitive salary of $246,488. These companies value their sales associates and offer attractive compensation packages. Other companies like Everlight Solar and Auto Dent Company also provide good salaries, with averages of $225,000 and $200,000 respectively. These companies recognize the importance of skilled sales associates and reward them accordingly.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Retail Sales Associate jobs, highlighting Staples with the highest at $294,982 and CastleRock Communities with the lowest at $172,714.
  1. Staples
    Average Salary: $294,982
    Staples offers exciting opportunities for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in many locations across the country. Staples' Retail Sales Associates help customers find the office supplies they need. They also provide excellent customer service and support.


  2. Car Pros Automotive Group
    Average Salary: $246,488
    Car Pros Automotive Group provides high-paying jobs for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in several states. Associates work closely with customers to help them find the right vehicle. They also assist with financing and sales processes.


  3. Everlight Solar
    Average Salary: $225,000
    Everlight Solar offers competitive salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in various locations. Associates at Everlight Solar educate customers on solar energy solutions. They also help customers through the installation process.


  4. Auto Dent Company
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Auto Dent Company provides good pay for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in multiple cities. Associates work with customers to assess and repair vehicle dents. They also provide quality service and customer satisfaction.


  5. Entourage Events Group
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Entourage Events Group offers attractive salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in several locations. Associates help clients plan and execute events. They also ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for clients.


  6. Windows Plus
    Average Salary: $199,662
    Windows Plus provides good compensation for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in many areas. Associates assist customers with selecting and installing windows. They also ensure customer satisfaction and quality service.


  7. Renewal by Andersen
    Average Salary: $188,322
    Renewal by Andersen offers competitive pay for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in various locations. Associates help customers with home improvement projects. They also provide excellent customer service and support.


  8. WindMar Home
    Average Salary: $186,364
    WindMar Home provides good salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in several areas. Associates assist customers with home improvement projects. They also ensure customer satisfaction and quality service.


  9. Roofing World
    Average Salary: $185,000
    Roofing World offers competitive pay for Retail Sales Associates. They operate in many locations. Associates help customers with roofing projects. They also ensure customer satisfaction and quality service.


  10. CastleRock Communities
    Average Salary: $172,714
    CastleRock Communities provides good salaries for Retail Sales Associates. They have locations in several areas. Associates help customers with home buying and real estate. They also ensure customer satisfaction and quality service.

How to earn more as a Retail Sales Associate?

A Retail Sales Associate can find many ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can boost their income and job satisfaction. Attention to detail, customer service, and sales skills are crucial. These factors can lead to higher tips, bonuses, and even promotions.

Here are five factors that can help a Retail Sales Associate earn more:

  1. Product Knowledge: Understanding the products well allows for better customer service. This leads to higher sales and customer satisfaction.
  2. Customer Service: Providing excellent service can turn customers into repeat buyers. This increases sales and tips.
  3. Sales Techniques: Learning and using effective sales techniques can boost sales. This includes upselling and cross-selling.
  4. Time Management: Efficiently managing time can help complete tasks faster. This allows for more sales opportunities.
  5. Teamwork: Working well with colleagues can create a better work environment. This leads to higher productivity and better sales.

Currently 13,782 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
13,782 Job Openings