Marketing and Sales Managers earn $158,040 median salary – what the BLS says in 2025
The median annual wage for Marketing and Sales Managers hit $158,040 in 2024 – that's roughly $76 an hour. The average (mean) worker in this occupation pulls in $169,490, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) latest OEWS data. But pay swings wide: the bottom 10% earn about $77,870, while top earners clear $292,100. These roles sit at the intersection of revenue and strategy, and employers reward that blend handsomely. Nationwide, over 1.03 million people hold these jobs.
How much Marketing and Sales Managers earn
The BLS reports Marketing and Sales Managers have a national median salary of $158,040 – the point where half earn more, half less. The mean wage is $169,490, pulled upward by the top decile who make $292,100 or more. Entry-level or lower-paying positions at the 10th percentile start around $77,870. Pay scales with company size, industry, and location: technology and finance firms often exceed the top percentiles, while smaller nonprofits or retail may land closer to the median.
The occupation includes both marketing managers and sales managers, which can skew numbers – sales roles sometimes include high commission earnings not fully captured in base salary surveys. Still, the BLS wages reflect total compensation.
- Median annual: $158,040 ($76/hour)
- Mean annual: $169,490 ($81.50/hour)
- 10th percentile: $77,870
- 90th percentile: $292,100
Pay by state
Due to data limitations, BLS does not provide state-level breakdowns for this occupation in the most recent release. However, general patterns hold: states with high costs of living and concentrations of corporate headquarters – such as California, New York, Massachusetts, and Washington – typically pay above the national median. Lower-cost states in the South and Midwest tend to offer salaries closer to the 10th percentile. For precise figures, consult the BLS OEWS database or state labor agencies, as annual updates may change rankings.
How to become Marketing and Sales Manager
Most Marketing and Sales Managers hold a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field. Many also have a master's degree, especially an MBA. Beyond education, employers look for 5+ years of experience in sales, marketing, or management roles – often a progression from inside sales or associate marketing positions. Professional certifications like the Certified Sales Professional (CSP) or Digital Marketing certification can give candidates an edge, though they are seldom mandatory.
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or related field (required by ~80% of job postings)
- Master’s degree (MBA) common for senior roles
- 5+ years of experience in sales/marketing, with at least 2-3 years in management or supervisory capacity
- Optional certifications: CSP, Salesforce, Google Analytics, or HubSpot
Job outlook
The BLS does not have a specific growth projection for Marketing and Sales Managers for 2024-2034. Employment in this occupation is expected to be driven by overall business expansion and the need to generate revenue in competitive markets. Automated marketing tools may reduce demand in lower-level roles, but strategic management positions should remain stable. Job openings will arise from retirements and turnover.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for Marketing and Sales Managers?
The BLS does not provide state-level data for this occupation in the latest release. But historically, California, New York, and Massachusetts have highest average wages. Check the BLS OEWS database for updates.
How long does it take to become a Marketing and Sales Manager?
Expect 6-10 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, plus at least 5 years of progressive experience in sales/marketing, often including 2-3 years in a supervisory role.
Do Marketing and Sales Managers make good money?
Yes. The median $158,040 is more than double the national median for all occupations ($48,060). Top earners exceed $292,000.
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 Marketing and Sales Managers data.