Teller Salary 2025: Median $43,030, Jobs Shrinking 12.9%
The median teller in the U.S. earns $43,030 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest data. That translates to roughly $21 an hour, with the typical pay range spanning from $34,360 at the 10th percentile to $49,680 at the 90th. Most tellers work full time in banks and credit unions, though employment is projected to shrink sharply over the next decade.
How much Tellers earn
The national median salary for tellers hit $43,030 in 2025 (mean $42,350). Half of all tellers earn between $34,360 and $49,680. Entry-level positions often start near the 10th percentile, while experienced tellers with additional duties may reach the top of the range.
- Median: $43,030 / year
- Mean: $42,350 / year (~$21/hr)
- 10th percentile: $34,360
- 90th percentile: $49,680
Pay by state
Teller salaries vary significantly by location. The five highest-paying states are Washington ($47,670), New Jersey ($47,210), California ($46,900), Massachusetts ($46,900), and Alaska ($46,770). On the lower end, Arkansas ($35,710), Louisiana ($35,680), and West Virginia ($34,560) offer below-average pay. Cost of living differences explain some of the gaps—tellers in expensive states like California earn roughly 36% more than those in West Virginia.
How to become Teller
Becoming a teller typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. No college degree is mandatory, though some coursework in accounting or finance can help. Banks often provide on-the-job training lasting a few weeks to a few months. Many tellers also earn the Certified Bank Teller (CBT) credential from the American Bankers Association to boost their resume, though it’s not required.
- High school diploma or GED
- On-the-job training (2–4 weeks)
- Optional: Certified Bank Teller (CBT) certification
- Skills: math, customer service, attention to detail
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 12.9% decline in teller employment from 2024 to 2034, losing about 42,500 jobs. Despite the drop, about 29,800 openings are expected each year as workers retire or transfer to other roles. The decline is driven by branch automation, online banking, and self-service kiosks. Tellers who can handle more complex transactions—like opening accounts or processing loans—will have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
How much do tellers make per hour in 2025?
The mean hourly wage for tellers is about $21, with a median annual salary of $43,030.
Do you need a degree to become a bank teller?
No, a high school diploma is the minimum requirement. Most training is provided on the job.
Is teller a declining career?
Yes. BLS projects a 12.9% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, but there are still nearly 30,000 job openings 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 Tellers data.