verified BLS-Verified Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2025 release

Real Estate Agent Salary

Median Annual Salary
$52,830/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$25.40/hr

Salary Distribution (10th to 90th Percentile)

trending_up 10-Yr Growth
+3% As fast as average
school Entry Education
High school diploma or equivalent
work Total Jobs (U.S.)
193,370

Estimated Pay by Experience Level

Entry-Level (10th Pct)
$32,970
$15.85/hr
Median
Mid-Level (50th Pct)
$52,830
$25.40/hr
Senior-Level (90th Pct)
$123,590
$59.42/hr

Salary by State

Median annual
StateMedian / yrRelative pay
District of Columbia $123,770
New York $102,990
New Jersey $99,990
Alaska $89,170
Nevada $79,990
Washington $79,130
Montana $79,100
New Mexico $76,170
National Median $52,830

View all 48 states arrow_forward

The highest sticker pay isn't always where real estate agents keep the most. See Real Estate Agent pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties, guiding them through pricing, showings, and closing.

1

Meet the education requirement

Most real estate agents enter the field with high school diploma or equivalent. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.

2

Complete an accredited training program

Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.

3

Earn the State real estate license

Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $32,970 and rises toward $123,590 with experience.

Real Estate Agent salary: common questions

How much does a Real Estate Agent make an hour?

The median hourly wage for real estate agents is $25.40, which works out to about $52,830 per year for full-time work.

Which state pays real estate agents the most?

District of Columbia has the highest median pay for real estate agents at $123,770 per year — 134% above the national median of $52,830.

What is the salary range for real estate agents?

Most real estate agents earn between $32,970 and $123,590 per year. The middle 50% earn $40,040 to $82,020, with a median of $52,830.

Is becoming a Real Estate Agent a good career?

Employment is projected to grow 3% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. With a median wage of $52,830 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.

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