Cashier Salary 2025: Median $32,880, Down 10% by 2034
The median cashier in the U.S. earns $32,880 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2023 data. That works out to roughly $16 an hour, with the typical range spanning from $24,530 at the 10th percentile to $40,410 at the 90th. With more than 3 million cashiers employed nationwide, this remains one of the largest occupations in the country—but the automation trend is real: BLS projects a 9.9% employment decline by 2034.
How much Cashiers earn
The national median annual wage for cashiers is $32,880, with a mean wage of $33,180. Hourly, that's about $16. Most cashiers earn between $24,530 and $40,410 annually. The bottom 10% make under $24,530, while the top 10% pull in over $40,410.
- Median: $32,880
- 10th percentile: $24,530
- 90th percentile: $40,410
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The District of Columbia tops the list at $38,880 average, followed by Washington ($38,720), California ($37,100), Colorado ($36,870), and Hawaii ($36,780). On the low end, Louisiana pays $26,750, Mississippi $26,390, and West Virginia $26,370. That's a 47% gap between the best and worst states.
How to become Cashier
Becoming a cashier doesn't require a college degree. Most employers hire candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. The job involves handling cash, credit card transactions, and sometimes operating a scanner or POS system. Some states require cashiers to be at least 16 or 18, depending on store policy. Basic math and customer service skills are key. There's no national certification, though some retailers offer internal training programs.
- No degree required; high school diploma or GED typical.
- On-the-job training provided by employer.
- Must be able to handle cash and operate register.
- Minimum age usually 16 (some stores require 18).
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of cashiers will decline 9.9% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 306,000 jobs. However, because the occupation is so large—3,089,410 jobs in 2024—there will still be about 542,600 openings each year, mostly from workers leaving or retiring. The decline is driven by self-checkout kiosks and online ordering. Job seekers should target grocery stores and smaller retailers that still emphasize personal service.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cashier salary in 2025?
The average (mean) cashier salary is $33,180 per year, about $16 per hour. Median is $32,880.
How do I become a cashier?
No degree required. You need a high school diploma or GED, basic math skills, and on-the-job training. Some states set a minimum age of 16 or 18.
What is the job growth for cashiers?
Employment is projected to decline 9.9% from 2024 to 2034, but about 542,600 openings per year are expected due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Cashiers data.