Cashier salary 2025: Median pay $32,930, job market for 3.1 million workers
The median cashier in the U.S. earns $32,930 per year, or about $16 an hour, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That's the midpoint; half make more, half less. The typical range spans from $24,520 at the 10th percentile to $40,670 at the 90th, meaning experienced cashiers in higher-paying roles can earn significantly more.
Over 3.1 million people work as cashiers nationwide, making it one of the largest occupations. The job can be a stepping stone or a long-term career, and pay varies by state, employer, and tenure. Here's what you need to know.
How much Cashiers earn
Nationally, the mean annual wage for cashiers is $33,220, which works out to about $16.00 per hour. But pay scales with experience and location. The lowest-paid 10 percent earn less than $24,520, while the top 10 percent earn more than $40,670. That top-end pay often goes to workers in unionized grocery stores, high-volume retailers, or those in expensive cities where employers compete for staff.
Typical entry-level hourly pay starts near minimum wage in many states, but the BLS data shows the median hourly wage is already well above the federal minimum of $7.25. Full-time cashiers also may get benefits like health insurance and paid time off, which add to total compensation.
- National median salary: $32,930
- Mean annual wage: $33,220 (~$16/hr)
- 10th percentile: $24,520
- 90th percentile: $40,670
Pay by state
Where you work as a cashier matters a lot for your paycheck. States with higher costs of living and stronger union presence tend to pay more. According to BLS data, the highest-paying states for cashiers include Washington, California, Massachusetts, and Alaska, with annual mean wages often exceeding $38,000. For example, Washington state cashiers average around $38,500, while California averages near $37,000.
On the lower end, states in the South and Southeast tend to have lower average cashier wages. Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas have mean annual wages around $27,000 to $28,000. That's still above the federal minimum, but significantly less than top-paying states.
How to become Cashier
Becoming a cashier is one of the most accessible jobs in the U.S. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, but many will hire candidates still in high school. No specialized degree or certification is needed. On-the-job training typically lasts a few days to two weeks, covering the point-of-sale system, store policies, and customer service basics.
Key skills include basic math, attention to detail, and good communication. Employers also look for reliability and a willingness to stand for long shifts. Some states or companies may require a background check, especially for positions handling money. Advancement opportunities include lead cashier, customer service supervisor, or even store manager with experience.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent (often not required but preferred)
- Experience: No prior experience necessary; on-the-job training provided
- Skills: Basic math, customer service, ability to use a register
- Certification: None required, but some employers offer in-house training programs
Job outlook
The BLS does not publish a specific growth projection for cashiers from 2024 to 2034, but the occupation is large and faces headwinds from self-checkout and online ordering. Even so, cashier jobs are expected to remain numerous because many transactions still require a human touch, especially in food service, small retail, and customer-facing environments. Turnover is high, so job openings should persist as workers move to other roles.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a degree to be a cashier?
No, most cashier jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent, and many hire without it. On-the-job training covers the specific register and store procedures.
What is the average hourly pay for cashiers?
The BLS reports a mean hourly wage of about $16.00. Median hourly is roughly $15.80, but entry-level pay can be near minimum wage in some states.
Which states pay cashiers the most?
Washington, California, Massachusetts, and Alaska tend to have the highest average cashier wages, often above $37,000 per year.
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.