Retail Store Manager Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Retail Store Manager make?

The average salary for a Retail Store Manager is $50,011 per year in the US.

A Retail Store Manager plays a key role in overseeing the daily operations of a store. This job often comes with a good salary. On average, the salary for a Retail Store Manager is around $50,000 per year. This can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience and in larger cities may earn more.

Retail Store Managers can expect to see a range of salaries. Entry-level managers might earn around $29,000. With a few years of experience, this can increase to about $45,000. As managers gain more experience, they can earn upwards of $87,500 per year. Some managers may also receive bonuses and other benefits, which can add to their total earnings.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Retail Store Manager?

Retail Store Managers in Hartford, CT, enjoy some of the highest salaries in the industry. With an average salary of $73,594, this city offers a lucrative opportunity for those in the field. Seattle, WA, and Boston, MA, also provide competitive wages, making them attractive locations for career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Retail Store Manager jobs, highlighting Hartford, CT with the highest at $73,594 and Vallejo, CA with the lowest at $57,642.
  1. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $73,594
    In Hartford, a Retail Store Manager oversees daily operations and staff. They work with local businesses like Target and Macy's. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban settings, making it a dynamic place to work.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Hartford, CT


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $62,346
    Seattle provides a vibrant environment for Retail Store Managers. They manage stores for companies like Nordstrom and REI. The city's culture values innovation and customer service, offering a rewarding work experience.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $61,986
    Boston is a historic city with a strong retail presence. Managers here work with brands like Whole Foods and Urban Outfitters. They enjoy a mix of tradition and modern business practices, making it an exciting place to work.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  4. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $60,156
    Fort Collins offers a laid-back yet growing retail scene. Managers work with local stores and national chains. The city's outdoor lifestyle and community spirit create a unique work environment.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $59,918
    Chicago is a bustling city with a diverse retail market. Managers here work with brands like Nordstrom Rack and Marshalls. The city's energy and variety provide a dynamic and challenging work experience.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $59,917
    Santa Maria has a smaller, community-focused retail environment. Managers work with local businesses and regional chains. The city offers a relaxed pace and a strong sense of community, making it a pleasant place to work.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  7. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $59,161
    San Francisco is a tech hub with a unique retail landscape. Managers work with companies like Apple and Gap. The city's innovative spirit and diverse culture create a stimulating work environment.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  8. Bend, OR
    Average Salary: $59,030
    Bend offers a blend of outdoor adventure and retail opportunities. Managers work with local stores and outdoor brands. The city's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle provide a refreshing work environment.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Bend, OR


  9. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $57,698
    Stamford is a suburban city with a strong retail presence. Managers work with companies like Macy's and JCPenney. The city offers a mix of business and leisure, making it a balanced place to work.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Stamford, CT


  10. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $57,642
    Vallejo has a growing retail market with a mix of local and national stores. Managers work with brands like Walmart and Target. The city's proximity to San Francisco offers a blend of urban and suburban opportunities.
    Find Retail Store Manager jobs in Vallejo, CA

What are the best companies a Retail Store Manager can work for?

Retail Store Manager roles offer competitive salaries, with some companies standing out for their higher pay. AutoNation leads the pack, offering an average salary of $146,160. Ballard Designs and Aluminum Precision Products also provide attractive compensation, with average salaries of $131,395 and $108,127, respectively. These companies recognize the value of skilled managers and reward them accordingly.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Retail Store Manager jobs, highlighting AutoNation with the highest at $146,160 and Mattress Firm with the lowest at $87,526.
  1. AutoNation
    Average Salary: $146,160
    AutoNation offers exciting opportunities for Retail Store Managers. They operate in multiple locations, including Florida, Texas, and California. Managers here lead teams to provide top-notch customer service and drive sales.


  2. Ballard Designs
    Average Salary: $131,395
    Ballard Designs is known for its high-quality furniture and home decor. Retail Store Managers work in stores across the Midwest, including Illinois and Michigan. They focus on creating a welcoming shopping experience and managing inventory.


  3. Aluminum Precision Products
    Average Salary: $108,127
    Aluminum Precision Products provides specialized retail services. Managers work in locations such as Ohio and Pennsylvania. They handle product displays and ensure customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.


  4. Total Wine & More
    Average Salary: $103,864
    Total Wine & More offers a dynamic retail environment. Managers work in stores across the East Coast, including New York and Virginia. They focus on customer service, sales, and inventory management.


  5. Promotive
    Average Salary: $93,808
    Promotive provides promotional products and services. Retail Store Managers work in locations such as California and Arizona. They manage sales teams, handle customer inquiries, and ensure product availability.


  6. First Student
    Average Salary: $90,058
    First Student offers school bus transportation services. Managers work in various locations across the country. They oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure customer satisfaction.


  7. Randstad
    Average Salary: $89,875
    Randstad provides staffing services. Retail Store Managers work in multiple locations nationwide. They focus on hiring, training, and managing staff to meet customer needs.


  8. EmployBridge
    Average Salary: $89,182
    EmployBridge offers employment solutions. Managers work in various locations across the U.S. They handle recruitment, training, and staff management to ensure smooth operations.


  9. AT&T | MWT, Inc
    Average Salary: $88,095
    AT&T | MWT, Inc provides telecommunications services. Retail Store Managers work in locations across the country. They focus on customer service, sales, and product knowledge.


  10. Mattress Firm
    Average Salary: $87,526
    Mattress Firm offers a wide range of mattresses and bedding. Managers work in stores across the U.S. They focus on customer service, sales, and product knowledge to help customers find the right mattress.

How to earn more as a Retail Store Manager?

A Retail Store Manager can increase their earnings through several key strategies. First, gaining experience in various retail environments helps build a strong foundation. This experience allows managers to understand different store operations and customer needs. Second, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance skills and knowledge. Certifications in areas like inventory management or customer service can make a manager more valuable to employers. Third, networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to better job opportunities and salary increases. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can facilitate this networking. Fourth, taking on additional responsibilities can demonstrate leadership and dedication. This might include managing larger stores or overseeing multiple locations. Finally, seeking promotions within the company shows ambition and a commitment to growth. Managers who aim for higher positions often find better pay and more opportunities for advancement.

To maximize earnings, a Retail Store Manager should focus on continuous improvement. This involves staying updated with the latest retail trends and technologies. Managers who adapt to new methods and tools can improve store efficiency and profitability. Another factor is developing strong communication skills. Effective communication with staff and customers can lead to better performance and customer satisfaction. Additionally, managing finances wisely can contribute to higher earnings. This includes budgeting, cost control, and maximizing sales. Managers who can demonstrate financial acumen often earn higher salaries. Lastly, providing excellent customer service can boost sales and customer loyalty. Happy customers are more likely to return and recommend the store to others, which can lead to higher earnings for the manager.

Currently 5,444 Retail Store Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Retail Store Manager in the US?

Learn what a Retail Store Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Retail Store Manager today.
Position
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Retail Store Manager
5,444 Job Openings