Retail Salespersons Salary in Wilmington, NC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Wilmington, NC

Median annual salary $29,520 -14.6% vs national
Median hourly $14.19
10th percentile $22,560
90th percentile $45,620
Employed locally 6,150
National median $34,580

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Retail Salespersons
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    In Wilmington, NC, retail salespersons earn a median annual salary of $29,520, which equates to approximately $14.19 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, standing at $34,580. When compared to local household income in Wilmington, where the area's median household income is reported as $73,687, retail salespersons' earnings represent a smaller portion of overall family income. Given that approximately 6,150 individuals are employed in this role within the region and the local unemployment rate stands at 3.50%, it suggests that while retail jobs are relatively accessible, they may not provide a substantial contribution to household finances compared to other local employment opportunities.

    At entry-level, retail salespersons in Wilmington, NC, typically earn around $22,560 annually, which is at the 10th percentile of earnings for this occupation in the area. As workers gain experience and potentially advance within their roles or acquire additional skills, they can see their salaries increase significantly. For instance, those at the 25th percentile earn approximately $26,510 per year, while those reaching the 75th percentile earn about $35,660 annually. At the higher end of the scale, experienced retail salespersons in the 90th percentile can make up to $45,620 a year. The difference in earnings between entry-level and more seasoned workers is driven by factors such as experience, performance, tenure with an employer, and additional responsibilities or roles assumed over time. This progression illustrates how career development within the retail sector can lead to improved financial outcomes for employees.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $22,560
    25th
    $26,510
    50th (median)
    $29,520
    75th
    $35,660
    90th
    $45,620

    Wilmington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $73,687 2023 • Census ACS
    Retail Salespersons salary vs area income 40% Median Retail Salespersons salary is 60% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Retail Salespersons make per hour in Wilmington?

    The median hourly wage for Retail Salespersons in Wilmington, NC is $14.19, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $22.07 or more per hour.

    Is Wilmington above or below average for Retail Salespersons salaries?

    The median Retail Salespersons salary in Wilmington, NC is 14.6% 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 Wilmington?

    Entry-level Retail Salespersons (10th percentile) earn around $22,560 per year in Wilmington, NC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $26,510.