Sales Manager Salary 2025: Median $148,270, Top Earners Over $290K
The median sales manager earned $148,270 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of earners pulled in over $290,540, while the bottom 10% made $73,170. With 637,080 sales managers across the U.S., this role combines leadership, strategy, and significant earning potential.
How much Sales Managers earn
The mean annual wage for sales managers is $164,350, which works out to about $71 an hour. Half of all sales managers earn between $73,170 (10th percentile) and $290,540 (90th percentile). Pay varies by industry: wholesale trade, manufacturing, and technology tend to pay above the median, while retail and real estate often pay less.
Total compensation for sales managers often includes bonuses and commissions, which BLS base wages do not always capture. Many top earners hit the $200K+ range through performance-based pay.
- Median: $148,270
- Mean: $164,350 ($71/hr)
- 10th percentile: $73,170
- 90th percentile: $290,540
- Total employment: 637,080
Pay by state
Location matters a lot for sales manager pay. The highest-paying state is New York, where the average salary is $217,640. Massachusetts follows at $191,200, then Virginia at $191,130. Colorado ($180,850) and Washington ($174,000) round out the top five. These states tend to have high concentrations of corporate headquarters, tech companies, and financial services.
At the other end of the spectrum, sales managers in West Virginia earn $94,830 on average. Alaska ($98,860) and Arkansas ($108,330) are also among the lowest-paying states. Cost of living explains some of the gap, but even after adjustments, top-tier states still lead.
How to become Sales Manager
Most sales managers have a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field. A master's in business administration (MBA) can help, especially for roles in larger firms or competitive sectors like tech or pharma. Prior sales experience—typically 5+ years—is essential. Many managers start as sales representatives before moving up.
Certifications are not required but can boost credentials. Examples include the Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP) or industry-specific programs. Licenses are rarely needed, except in fields like insurance or real estate where a state license is mandatory for any sales role.
Key skills: coaching, data analysis, CRM proficiency, and strategic planning. Companies increasingly want managers who can use sales analytics tools to forecast and optimize team performance.
- Bachelor's degree (business, marketing) typical; MBA helpful
- 5+ years of sales experience required
- Optional certifications: CSLP, industry-specific
- Key skills: coaching, CRM, data analysis, strategic planning
Job outlook
Employment for sales managers is projected to grow 4.7% from 2024 to 2034, which the BLS classifies as faster than average. That translates to about 49,000 job openings per year over the decade, mostly due to workers retiring or moving to other occupations. Demand will be strongest in wholesale trade, e-commerce, and technical sales as businesses continue to invest in expanding their customer bases.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for sales managers?
New York, with an average salary of $217,640. Massachusetts, Virginia, Colorado, and Washington also rank highly.
Do sales managers earn bonuses or commissions?
Yes, many sales managers receive bonuses, commissions, or profit sharing in addition to their base salary. BLS data may not fully capture these components.
How many years of experience do you need to become a sales manager?
Most employers require at least 5 years of sales experience, often with demonstrated leadership or team management.
Is the job market for sales managers growing?
Yes, the BLS projects 4.7% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 49,000 new positions each year on average.
What is the typical salary for a first-year sales manager?
Entry-level sales managers (10th percentile) earn around $73,170. Many start in the $70K–$90K range before bonuses or commissions.
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 Sales Managers data.