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Sales · Tennessee

How to Become a Retail Salespersons in Tennessee

Retail Salespersons in Tennessee earn a median salary of $30,770/year, which is 11% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a retail salespersons takes home approximately $818/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$31K
Median salary in Tennessee
-11%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
85,810
Employed in Tennessee

What a retail salespersons can afford in Tennessee

Gross annual salary$30,770
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$2,230/mo
Median 2BR rent (Tennessee)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home63.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$30,770/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$818/mo

Becoming a retail salespersons in Tennessee

1

Meet education requirements

Retail Salespersons positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many retail salespersons positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification

Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for retail salespersonss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Tennessee

Tennessee employs 85,810 retail salespersons. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Kingsport-Bristol.

Retail Salespersons salary by metro area in Tennessee

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin$34K$16.41/hr28,140
Kingsport-Bristol$30K$14.59/hr3,450
Memphis$30K$14.52/hr15,920
Cleveland$30K$14.49/hr1,290
Knoxville$30K$14.47/hr11,980
Jackson$30K$14.38/hr2,270
Morristown$30K$14.36/hr1,210
Chattanooga$30K$14.34/hr6,910
Clarksville$29K$13.91/hr3,060
Johnson City$29K$13.8/hr2,430

Retail Salespersons salary range in Tennessee

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$27K
Median (50th)
$31K
75th percentile
$36K
90th percentile (senior)
$47K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a retail salespersons make in Tennessee?

The median retail salespersons salary in Tennessee is $30,770 per year ($14.79/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $34,580. Salaries range from $22,670 to $46,640.

What are the requirements to become a retail salespersons in Tennessee?

Retail Salespersons positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a retail salespersons afford to live in Tennessee?

At the median salary of $30,770, a retail salespersons in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,230/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 63.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for retail salespersons in Tennessee?

The highest paying metro areas for retail salespersons in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($34,120), Kingsport-Bristol ($30,340), Memphis ($30,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Tennessee have state income tax for retail salespersons?

No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means retail salespersons keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.