Postal Service Mail Carriers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 336,040 postal service mail carriers, and they earn a median of $57,490/year. The range runs from $42K to $77K. South Dakota pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level postal service mail carriers start around $42K. The gap between that and the median ($57K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $77K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | $59K | 860 |
| Massachusetts | $59K | 7,640 |
| Arizona | $59K | 5,470 |
| Nebraska | $58K | 2,120 |
| Rhode Island | $58K | 1,260 |
| Texas | $58K | 27,180 |
| Utah | $58K | 2,430 |
| Virginia | $58K | 8,110 |
| Washington | $58K | 6,660 |
| California | $58K | 33,150 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a postal service mail carriers make?▼
The median postal service mail carriers salary in the United States is $57,490 per year ($28/hour). Entry-level positions start around $42,390, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,880.
What education do you need to become a postal service mail carriers?▼
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 postal service mail carriers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for postal service mail carriers.
What are the highest paying states for postal service mail carriers?▼
The highest paying states for postal service mail carriers are South Dakota ($59,320), Massachusetts ($59,010), Arizona ($58,570), Nebraska ($58,390), Rhode Island ($58,390). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.