Retail Salesperson Salary in North Carolina
Based on 128K+ workers in North Carolina
Median Annual Salary (NC)
$31,370
$15.08/hr
vs National Average
$34,032
-7.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$23K – $46K
128K employed in North Carolina
The median Retail Salesperson salary in North Carolina is $31,370 per year, which equates to about $15 per hour. This figure is 7.8% lower than the national average for this role. With over 127,540 individuals employed in this capacity, it's a significant sector within the state's economy.
Several factors can influence the specific Retail Salesperson salary in North Carolina. These include the employer's size and profitability, the salesperson's experience level, and the cost of living in the particular city or region within the state. Location and the specific type of retail environment also play a role in determining compensation.
Salary Distribution — Retail Salesperson in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $23,040 |
| 25th percentile | $27,720 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $31,370 |
| 75th percentile | $36,930 |
| 90th percentile | $46,070 |
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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (North Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $31,370 |
| 2026 (projected) | $32,311 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | North Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $31,370 | $34,032 |
| 2026 (projected) | $32,311 | $35,053 |
Retail Salesperson Salary by Experience Level in North Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $27,720 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $31,370 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $36,930 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,070 |
Retail Salesperson Salary in Other States
Related Retail Salesperson Salaries in North Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in North Carolina compare to Retail Salesperson ($31,370 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Retail Salesperson | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cashier in NC | $28,880 | -7.9% | $13.88/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NC | $31,240 | -0.4% | $15.02/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in NC | $32,150 | +2.5% | $15.46/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in NC | $28,570 | -8.9% | $13.74/hr |
| Security Guard in NC | $35,010 | +11.6% | $16.83/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in NC | $35,400 | +12.8% | $17.02/hr |
| Receptionist in NC | $35,440 | +13.0% | $17.04/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NC | $35,950 | +14.6% | $17.28/hr |
| Firefighter in NC | $37,940 | +20.9% | $18.24/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in NC | $38,460 | +22.6% | $18.49/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in NC | $40,240 | +28.3% | $19.35/hr |
| Tutor in NC | $41,710 | +33.0% | $20.05/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Retail Salesperson in North Carolina?
- The salary range for a Retail Salesperson in North Carolina generally falls between $23,040 and $46,070 annually. The median annual salary is $31,370, providing a good benchmark for most positions.
How does the average Retail Salesperson pay in North Carolina compare to the national average?
- The average Retail Salesperson salary in North Carolina is 7.8% lower than the national average. This means that, on average, individuals in this role in North Carolina earn less than their counterparts across the United States.
How many Retail Salespeople are employed in North Carolina?
- There are approximately 127,540 Retail Salespeople employed in North Carolina. This substantial number indicates a strong presence of this profession within the state's workforce.
Is it possible to earn more than the median salary as a Retail Salesperson in North Carolina?
- Yes, it is possible to earn more than the median salary of $31,370. The upper end of the salary range for Retail Salespeople in North Carolina can reach up to $46,070 per year, depending on various factors such as experience and employer.