Parts Salespersons vs. Retail Salespersons: Who Earns More?
Parts Salespersons out-earn Retail Salespersons by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Parts Salespersons land at $38,630 and Retail Salespersons at $35,410. The education gap is real: parts salesperson programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while retail salesperson programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Parts Salespersons is North Dakota ($48,600); for Retail Salespersons it's Washington ($39,560).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Parts Salespersons median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Parts Salespersons or Retail Salespersons?
Parts Salespersons earn more nationally. The median is $38,630 for Parts Salespersons versus $35,410 for Retail Salespersons, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Parts Salespersons or Retail Salespersons?
Parts Salespersons has the better 10-year outlook at 3.1% projected growth, compared to -0.5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Parts Salespersons or Retail Salespersons?
Parts Salespersons 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 Parts Salespersons get paid the most?
North Dakota is the top-paying state for Parts Salespersons at $48,600/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Parts Salespersons vs. Retail Salespersons pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Colorado, Parts Salespersons earn $47,660 vs. $37,950 for Retail Salespersons. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.