How to Become a Retail Salespersons in California
Retail Salespersons in California earn a median salary of $37,250/year, which is 8% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.8%. After taxes and rent, a retail salespersons takes home approximately $1,196/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a retail salespersons can afford in California
Becoming a retail salespersons in California
Meet education requirements
Retail Salespersons positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many retail salespersons positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for retail salespersonss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 352,860 retail salespersons. The highest concentrations are in Napa and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Retail Salespersons salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Napa | $45K | $21.48/hr | 2,140 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $43K | $20.69/hr | 17,420 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $42K | $20.43/hr | 37,380 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $39K | $18.64/hr | 5,120 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $38K | $18.03/hr | 3,190 |
| Vallejo | $37K | $18.01/hr | 3,940 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $37K | $17.86/hr | 22,240 |
| Salinas | $37K | $17.78/hr | 3,560 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $37K | $17.74/hr | 2,320 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $37K | $17.59/hr | 31,420 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $37K | $17.59/hr | 122,120 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $36K | $17.54/hr | 4,160 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $36K | $17.44/hr | 810 |
| Modesto | $36K | $17.41/hr | 4,910 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $36K | $17.23/hr | 7,990 |
Retail Salespersons salary range in California
Retail Salespersons careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a retail salespersons make in California?▼
The median retail salespersons salary in California is $37,250 per year ($17.91/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $34,580. Salaries range from $34,290 to $53,780.
What are the requirements to become a retail salespersons in California?▼
Retail Salespersons positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a retail salespersons afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $37,250, a retail salespersons in California would take home approximately $2,608/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for retail salespersons in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for retail salespersons in California are Napa ($44,680), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($43,040), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($42,490). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for retail salespersons?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.8%. On a $37,250 salary, this means roughly $671/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.