Retail Salespersons Salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD

Median annual salary $33,630 -2.7% vs national
Median hourly $16.17
10th percentile $27,210
90th percentile $47,910
Employed locally 64,820
National median $34,580

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    In Philadelphia and its surrounding areas in PA-NJ-DE-MD, retail salespersons earn a median annual salary of $33,630, with a corresponding hourly rate of $16.17. This figure is slightly below the national median for the occupation at $34,580. When compared to the area's median household income of $89,273, the earnings of typical retail salespersons represent about 37.7% of the median household income in this region. The salary distribution shows variability, with the lower 10th percentile earning approximately $27,210 annually and the higher 90th percentile reaching up to $47,910. These figures indicate a range of earnings potential within the occupation, reflecting differences that may be driven by factors such as store type or geographic location.

    Entry-level retail salespersons often earn near the lower end of the salary spectrum, with wages potentially aligning with the 10th percentile mark at around $27,210 annually. As these workers gain experience and possibly take on more responsibilities or move to higher-paying stores, their earnings can increase significantly, approaching the median salary of $33,630. Experienced retail salespersons may reach salaries closer to the 75th percentile, earning up to approximately $37,300 per year. Factors driving this pay disparity include length of service, skills acquired over time, customer service performance, and opportunities for advancement within larger or more specialized retail establishments.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $27,210
    25th
    $29,200
    50th (median)
    $33,630
    75th
    $37,300
    90th
    $47,910

    Philadelphia economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $89,273 2023 • Census ACS
    Retail Salespersons salary vs area income 38% Median Retail Salespersons salary is 62% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Retail Salespersons make per hour in Philadelphia?

    The median hourly wage for Retail Salespersons in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is $16.17, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.08 or more per hour.

    Is Philadelphia above or below average for Retail Salespersons salaries?

    The median Retail Salespersons salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is 2.7% below 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 Philadelphia?

    Entry-level Retail Salespersons (10th percentile) earn around $27,210 per year in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $29,200.