Retail Salespersons Salary in Los Angeles, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA

Median annual salary $36,580 +5.8% vs national
Median hourly $17.59
10th percentile $34,670
90th percentile $52,100
Employed locally 122,120
National median $34,580

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Retail Salespersons
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Los Angeles, CA
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    In Los Angeles, CA, the typical retail salesperson earns a median annual salary of $36,580, which translates to a median hourly wage of $17.59. This figure is slightly higher than the national median for retail salespersons, which stands at $34,580, reflecting potentially higher living costs and competitive wages within the region. When compared to the area's median household income of $93,525, the earnings of retail salespersons appear modest, indicating that such positions may not significantly contribute to a typical household's financial resources on their own. The local unemployment rate is 5.40%, suggesting a moderately stable job market for retail sales roles in Los Angeles.

    The earnings potential for retail salespersons in Los Angeles varies considerably based on experience and performance, with entry-level workers typically earning closer to the 10th percentile of $34,670 annually, while more experienced employees can earn up to the 90th percentile, which is $52,100 per year. This disparity in wages is driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, store location, and individual performance metrics like sales targets achieved or customer service ratings. Experienced workers often have opportunities for higher pay through commissions and bonuses linked to their ability to meet or exceed sales goals, reflecting the value placed on experience and proven success within the retail industry.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $34,670
    25th
    $35,490
    50th (median)
    $36,580
    75th
    $44,130
    90th
    $52,100

    Los Angeles economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $93,525 2023 • Census ACS
    Retail Salespersons salary vs area income 39% Median Retail Salespersons salary is 61% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Retail Salespersons make per hour in Los Angeles?

    The median hourly wage for Retail Salespersons in Los Angeles, CA is $17.59, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $26.27 or more per hour.

    Is Los Angeles above or below average for Retail Salespersons salaries?

    The median Retail Salespersons salary in Los Angeles, CA is 5.8% above the national median of $34,580. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Retail Salespersons in Los Angeles?

    Entry-level Retail Salespersons (10th percentile) earn around $34,670 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $35,490.