Retail Salespersons Salary in Virginia Beach, VA-NC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk, VA-NC

Median annual salary $29,790 -13.9% vs national
Median hourly $14.32
10th percentile $26,620
90th percentile $44,520
Employed locally 20,980
National median $34,580

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    In Virginia Beach, VA-NC, retail salespersons typically earn a median annual salary of $29,790, which is approximately $4,790 below the national median of $34,580. On an hourly basis, this translates to around $14.32. When compared to the local area's median household income of $80,533, it becomes evident that retail sales positions tend to offer earnings that are significantly lower than what a typical household in the region earns annually. This discrepancy highlights the economic positioning of retail sales roles within the broader community context and underscores the challenges faced by individuals relying solely on these wages to support a family or maintain an independent living standard.

    The salary range for retail salespersons varies significantly based on experience, with entry-level workers earning around $26,620 at the 10th percentile. In contrast, more experienced employees can earn up to $44,520 at the 90th percentile, reflecting nearly a 67% increase from the lowest earners in this occupation. This disparity is driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, and performance, with higher earnings often associated with increased responsibilities or managerial roles within retail settings. The progression from entry-level to experienced positions typically involves not only gaining practical experience but also developing specialized skills that enhance an employee's value to the employer, thereby justifying higher compensation levels.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $26,620
    25th
    $27,320
    50th (median)
    $29,790
    75th
    $35,550
    90th
    $44,520

    Virginia Beach economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,533 2023 • Census ACS
    Retail Salespersons salary vs area income 37% Median Retail Salespersons salary is 63% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Retail Salespersons make per hour in Virginia Beach?

    The median hourly wage for Retail Salespersons in Virginia Beach, VA-NC is $14.32, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.43 or more per hour.

    Is Virginia Beach above or below average for Retail Salespersons salaries?

    The median Retail Salespersons salary in Virginia Beach, VA-NC is 13.9% 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 Virginia Beach?

    Entry-level Retail Salespersons (10th percentile) earn around $26,620 per year in Virginia Beach, VA-NC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $27,320.