Counter and Rental Clerks Salary Guide 2025: $41,300 Median, Job Outlook & How to Start
Counter and Rental Clerks earn a median $41,300 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $20 per hour. The typical range runs from $29,800 for entry-level workers up to $65,370 for experienced clerks in the 90th percentile. With over 400,000 current positions and about 46,000 annual openings, it's a sizable occupation with steady demand.
How much Counter and Rental Clerks earn
The national median salary for Counter and Rental Clerks is $41,300. The mean wage is slightly higher at $45,700, reflecting that higher earners pull the average up. Hourly pay sits around $20 on average.
At the 10th percentile, clerks earn about $29,800—typical for entry-level or part-time roles. The 90th percentile reaches $65,370, often earned by senior clerks or those in specialized rental firms.
Top-paying industries include rental and leasing services, with some clerks earning well above the median. Most clerks are employed in automotive rental, equipment rental, and home centers.
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The highest-paying state is District of Columbia at $53,760, followed by New Jersey ($48,900), Vermont ($48,430), Washington ($47,820), and New Hampshire ($47,250). These states often have higher cost of living or stronger union presence.
At the lower end, West Virginia pays $34,780, Louisiana $34,910, and Arkansas $34,940. Even in these states, pay can be competitive in larger metro areas or specialized rental niches.
How to become Counter and Rental Clerk
The path is straightforward. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is typical—new clerks learn company procedures, point-of-sale systems, and customer service protocols in the first few weeks.
Voluntary certification, like the Certified Rental Professional credential through the American Rental Association, can boost your resume and earning potential. Relevant skills include basic math, cash handling, computer literacy, and strong communication.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level clerk positions. Many hire with no experience.
- Complete on-the-job training (usually 1–4 weeks).
- Consider rental association certifications for advancement.
- Build skills in customer service, inventory management, and basic accounting.
Job outlook
Employment for Counter and Rental Clerks is projected to grow 3.2% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates into roughly 45,900 openings per year over the decade, mostly from workers leaving the occupation.
Growth is driven by steady demand for vehicle rentals, equipment leasing, and event supplies. Automation may affect some tasks, but customer service roles remain harder to replace. Job prospects are best for those with good computer skills and availability to work evenings or weekends.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Counter and Rental Clerk?
The average (mean) salary is $45,700 per year, while the median is $41,300.
Do Counter and Rental Clerks need a college degree?
No, a high school diploma and on-the-job training are typical. Some earn certifications for advancement.
Is Counter and Rental Clerk a good career?
It offers steady work with 46,000 annual openings and a median salary of $41,300. Pay can increase with experience and in top-paying states.
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 Counter and Rental Clerks data.