Retail employers are facing challenges in finding and retaining workers, leading to an increase in wages across the industry. Entry-level retail employees are now finding jobs that pay over $17 an hour, a significant increase from the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour that has remained unchanged since 2009.
To identify the highest-paying entry-level retail jobs in the US, Business Insider asked Glassdoor to compile a list based on data from the past year. Glassdoor’s averages were calculated using hourly wage information submitted by users of the platform between January 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, for sales associates and related roles such as cashiers and retail representatives.
In order to be included in the analysis, companies had to have at least 1,000 employees, and all entries on the list had a minimum of 30 worker-submitted salaries. The list showcases 15 of the highest-paying entry-level retail jobs in the US, highlighting the companies that are leading the way in offering competitive wages for entry-level positions.
Patagonia continues to be at the top of the list as one of the highest-paying retail employers, setting a standard for other companies in the industry. Retail wages are steadily increasing as employers recognize the importance of attracting and retaining quality workers in a competitive job market.