Travel Agents vs. Retail Salespersons: Who Earns More?
Travel Agentss out-earn Retail Salespersonss by $15K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Travel Agentss land at $50,160 and Retail Salespersonss at $35,410. The education gap is real: travel agent programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while retail salesperson programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Travel Agentss is Nevada ($63,400); for Retail Salespersonss it's Washington ($39,560).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Travel Agents median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Travel Agentss or Retail Salespersonss?
Travel Agentss earn more nationally. The median is $50,160 for Travel Agentss versus $35,410 for Retail Salespersonss, a difference of $15K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Travel Agents or Retail Salespersons?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Travel Agents or Retail Salespersons?
Travel Agents 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 Travel Agentss get paid the most?
Nevada is the top-paying state for Travel Agentss at $63,400/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Travel Agents vs. Retail Salespersons pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Travel Agentss earn $61,560 vs. $38,500 for Retail Salespersonss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.