Telemarketers earn $35,450 median salary in 2025 – outlook drops 22%
Telemarketers earn a median $35,450 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $37,370, or about $17 per hour. Most telemarketers earn between $27,040 (10th percentile) and $50,350 (90th percentile).
How much Telemarketers earn
The national median salary for telemarketers is $35,450. That's the midpoint – half earn more, half less. The mean wage, which averages all salaries including high earners, is $37,370. Hourly, that works out to roughly $17.
Entry-level telemarketers at the 10th percentile make about $27,040. Experienced professionals at the 90th percentile can earn up to $50,350.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. Kansas is the highest-paying state at $48,010. Colorado ($47,670), California ($46,000), Connecticut ($45,200), and Massachusetts ($44,650) round out the top five.
The lowest-paying states are Oklahoma ($26,880), North Dakota ($23,440), and Mississippi ($21,540). That's less than half of what telemarketers earn in Kansas.
How to become Telemarketer
Becoming a telemarketer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. No college degree is required, though some employers prefer candidates with some college or sales experience.
Most training happens on the job. You'll learn scripts, call-handling software, and compliance rules like the Do Not Call list. A few states require a telemarketing license or bond – check your state's regulations.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level telemarketing positions; prior sales or customer service experience helps.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 1-4 weeks).
- If required by your state, obtain a telemarketing license or bond.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for telemarketers to shrink 22.1% from 2024 to 2034. That's a steep decline, far worse than the average for all occupations. Automation, call-blocking technology, and a shift to digital marketing are driving the drop.
Despite the decline, there will be about 6,500 openings each year, mostly to replace workers who leave the occupation. Current employment is 58,430 telemarketers nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for telemarketers?
The median salary is $35,450 per year. The mean is $37,370, about $17 per hour.
Is telemarketing a growing career?
No. The BLS projects a 22.1% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, so it's a shrinking field. But about 6,500 openings still occur annually due to turnover.
How do I become a telemarketer?
You typically need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Some states require a license or bond. Prior sales or customer service experience can improve your chances.
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 Telemarketers data.