Sales representative pay
What sales reps earn — and keep — in 2026
Sales pay is built on base salary plus commission. The BLS reports a median of $74,100 for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives (May 2024). Reps selling technical and scientific products earn more, and commission-heavy roles reward top performers handsomely — the top 10% exceed $150,000.
Where a sales rep's paycheck goes
On the $74,100 median, a single sales rep pays federal income tax mostly in the 12%–22% brackets after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Commission swings your gross month to month, so estimate your full-year total for the most accurate net.
The highest-paying states for sales reps
Sales reps earn the most in states with dense business and manufacturing activity — including California, New York, Texas, New Jersey and Illinois. Texas, Florida and Washington pair strong sales pay with no state income tax.
Compare the role with other careers
See how sales rep pay compares with a marketing manager or insurance agent, or check your exact net in Texas.
Questions
Sales Representative Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a sales representative make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $74,100 for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives (May 2024). Technical and scientific-product reps earn more, and commission-driven top performers exceed $150,000.
What is a sales rep's take-home pay on $74,100?
A single sales rep earning the $74,100 median takes home roughly $58,000 to $59,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Commission is taxable but lifts both gross and net.
How is sales commission taxed?
Commission is a supplemental wage. Employers often withhold federal tax at a flat 22% rate, but at filing it is taxed at your actual marginal rate, plus Social Security and Medicare. Add your expected annual commission to the gross field for a realistic estimate.
Which states pay sales reps the most?
Sales reps earn the highest wages in business- and manufacturing-dense states including California, New York, Texas, New Jersey and Illinois. No-income-tax states like Texas, Florida and Washington let you keep more of your commission.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives (median $74,100, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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