Models vs. Retail Salespersons: Who Earns More?
Models out-earn Retail Salespersons by $13K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Models land at $48,470 and Retail Salespersons at $35,410. The education gap is real: model programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while retail salesperson programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Models is Arizona ($109,910); for Retail Salespersons it's Washington ($39,560).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Models median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Models or Retail Salespersons?
Models earn more nationally. The median is $48,470 for Models versus $35,410 for Retail Salespersons, a difference of $13K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Models or Retail Salespersons?
Models has the better 10-year outlook at -0.5% projected growth, compared to -0.5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Models or Retail Salespersons?
Models typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Retail Salespersons requires no formal educational credential. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Models get paid the most?
Arizona is the top-paying state for Models at $109,910/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Models vs. Retail Salespersons pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Arizona, Models earn $109,910 vs. $35,720 for Retail Salespersons. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.