Parts Salespersons: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 265,060 parts salespersons, and they earn a median of $37,440/year. The range runs from $28K to $62K. North Dakota pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level parts salespersons start around $28K. The gap between that and the median ($37K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $62K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $52K | 1,660 |
| Minnesota | $47K | 5,770 |
| Alaska | $46K | 570 |
| New York | $46K | 6,120 |
| Hawaii | $46K | 820 |
| Iowa | $45K | 3,580 |
| South Dakota | $45K | 1,960 |
| Massachusetts | $44K | 4,390 |
| Washington | $44K | 6,600 |
| Oregon | $44K | 3,610 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a parts salespersons make?▼
The median parts salespersons salary in the United States is $37,440 per year ($18/hour). Entry-level positions start around $27,770, while experienced professionals earn up to $61,750.
What education do you need to become a parts salespersons?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for parts salespersons?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for parts salespersons.
What are the highest paying states for parts salespersons?▼
The highest paying states for parts salespersons are North Dakota ($52,000), Minnesota ($47,160), Alaska ($45,670), New York ($45,540), Hawaii ($45,520). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.