Occupational Outlook Handbook > Sales >

Sales Occupations

Employment in sales and related occupations is projected to decline 2 percent, with a loss of about 303,400 jobs from 2019 to 2029. Sales workers in the services and wholesale sectors will continue to be in demand because these occupations remain critical in building and maintaining customer bases for businesses. Rising levels of e-commerce will depress employment growth in some of these occupations in the retail sector.

The median annual wage for sales and related occupations was $29,630 in May 2019, which was lower than the median annual wage for all occupations of $39,810.

OCCUPATION	JOB SUMMARY	ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION	2019 MEDIAN PAY
Advertising Sales Agents	Advertising sales agents sell advertising space to businesses and individuals.	High school diploma or equivalent	$53,310
Cashiers	Cashiers process payments from customers purchasing goods and services.	No formal educational credential	$23,650
Insurance Sales Agents	Insurance sales agents contact potential customers and sell one or more types of insurance.	High school diploma or equivalent	$50,940
Models	Models pose for artists, photographers, and other clients to help advertise products.	No formal educational credential	$28,350
Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents	Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties.	High school diploma or equivalent	$50,730
Retail Sales Workers	Retail sales workers help customers find products they want and process customers’ payments.	No formal educational credential	$25,440
Sales Engineers	Sales engineers sell complex scientific and technological products or services to businesses.	Bachelor's degree	$103,900
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents	Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents connect buyers and sellers in financial markets.	Bachelor's degree	$62,270
Travel Agents	Travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips.	High school diploma or equivalent	$40,660
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	$63,000