Retail Salespersons Salary in Southeast Oklahoma

In Southeast Oklahoma, retail salespersons earn a median annual salary of $28,940, which is approximately $13.92 per hour. This figure stands below the national median for the occupation, which is reported at $34,580 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (BLS OEWS) data from May 2025. When compared to local household income levels in the region, retail salespersons typically earn less than what a single-earner might need for basic household expenses, reflecting broader economic conditions that often place lower-wage workers at a financial disadvantage. The disparity highlights the challenges faced by retail employees in Southeast Oklahoma as they strive to meet their living costs with earnings below national averages.

Entry-level retail salespersons in Southeast Oklahoma typically earn around the 10th percentile of $20,600 annually, while those who are more experienced and fall into the 90th percentile can make up to $46,000 per year. This significant salary gap is driven by factors such as tenure, performance, and additional responsibilities or skills acquired over time. For example, entry-level workers may earn closer to the lower end of the range due to limited experience, whereas seasoned employees might receive higher compensation for their expertise, customer service skills, and potential supervisory roles. Additionally, geographic cost-of-living adjustments and local market demand for retail services also play a role in determining salary variations within this occupation.