Retail Salesperson Salary in California
Based on 376K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$38,440
$18.48/hr
vs National Average
$34,032
+13.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$35K – $54K
376K employed in California
The median Retail Salesperson salary in California is $38,440 per year, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, sitting 13.0% above it. With a significant number of individuals employed in this role across the state, understanding this compensation landscape is crucial.
Several factors can influence the Retail Salesperson salary in California. These include the specific retailer, the location within the state (urban vs. rural), years of experience, and any additional commission or bonus structures that may be in place. Retail sales roles in higher cost-of-living areas or those with premium brands may offer different pay scales.
Salary Distribution — Retail Salesperson in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,240 |
| 25th percentile | $36,350 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,440 |
| 75th percentile | $45,460 |
| 90th percentile | $54,310 |
Top-Paying Industries for Retail Salesperson (U.S.)
Which industries pay Retail Salespersons the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Retail Salespersons in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $43,680 | 80 |
| Construction | $42,380 | 9K |
| Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction | $40,950 | — |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $39,210 | 11K |
| Wholesale Trade | $38,830 | 61K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Retail Salesperson in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,440 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,593 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,440 | $34,032 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,593 | $35,053 |
Retail Salesperson Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,350 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,440 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,460 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $54,310 |
Retail Salesperson Salary in Other States
Related Retail Salesperson Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Retail Salesperson ($38,440 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Retail Salesperson | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cashier in CA | $37,100 | -3.5% | $17.84/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in CA | $36,080 | -6.1% | $17.35/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in CA | $42,280 | +10.0% | $20.33/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in CA | $34,320 | -10.7% | $16.50/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in CA | $42,870 | +11.5% | $20.61/hr |
| Security Guard in CA | $43,240 | +12.5% | $20.79/hr |
| Receptionist in CA | $44,100 | +14.7% | $21.20/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in CA | $44,480 | +15.7% | $21.38/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in CA | $44,880 | +16.8% | $21.58/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in CA | $47,630 | +23.9% | $22.90/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in CA | $49,560 | +28.9% | $23.83/hr |
| Tutor in CA | $49,570 | +29.0% | $23.83/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Retail Salesperson in California?
- The typical salary range for a Retail Salesperson in California falls between $35,240 and $54,310 annually. This indicates a broad spectrum of earning potential within the state's retail sector.
How does the average Retail Salesperson salary in California compare to the national average?
- The average Retail Salesperson salary in California is 13.0% higher than the national average. This suggests that, on average, sales professionals in California earn more than their counterparts elsewhere in the country.
What is the hourly wage for a Retail Salesperson in California?
- Based on the median annual salary of $38,440, a Retail Salesperson in California typically earns around $18 per hour. This hourly rate provides a more immediate understanding of day-to-day earnings.
How many Retail Salespersons are employed in California?
- There are a substantial 376,460 individuals employed as Retail Salespersons in California. This large workforce underscores the significance of this profession within the state's economy.