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Workers in this group sell goods and services or connect buyers with sellers in a specific market, such as real estate or securities.

Overall employment in sales occupations is projected to decline over the 2023–33 decade. However, about 1.8 million openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently.

The median annual wage for this group was $37,460 in May 2024, which was lower than the median annual wage for all occupations of $49,500.

BLS employment projections, wage, and other data for related occupations not shown in the following table are available on the Data for Occupations Not Covered in Detail page. Information highlighting physical demands, cognitive and mental requirements, and other qualifications for workers in this group are available in a BLS Occupational Requirements Survey (ORS) profile.

OCCUPATION JOB SUMMARY ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION Help 2024 MEDIAN PAY Help
Advertising sales agents Advertising Sales Agents

Advertising sales agents sell promotional space to businesses and individuals.

 High school diploma or equivalent $61,460
Cashiers Cashiers

Cashiers process payments and disburse money in retail settings.

 No formal educational credential $31,190
Insurance sales agents Insurance Sales Agents

Insurance sales agents contact potential customers and sell one or more types of insurance.

 High school diploma or equivalent $60,370
Models Models

Models pose for artists, photographers, and other clients to help advertise products.

 No formal educational credential $89,990
Real estate brokers and sales agents Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents

Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties.

 High school diploma or equivalent $58,960
Retail sales workers Retail Sales Workers

Retail sales workers sell merchandise, spare and replacement parts, and equipment to customers.

 No formal educational credential $34,730
Sales engineers Sales Engineers

Sales engineers sell business products or services, such as software or support, that require technical expertise.

 Bachelor's degree $121,520
Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents

Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents connect buyers and sellers in financial markets.

 Bachelor's degree $78,140
Travel agents Travel Agents

Travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips.

 High school diploma or equivalent $48,450
Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives

Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations.

 See How to Become One $74,100

Last Modified Date: Friday, April 18, 2025