In 2026, Ross Stores Inc., one of the largest off-price retailers in the United States, continues to provide a wide range of employment opportunities across its retail stores, distribution centers, and corporate offices. Whether you’re applying for a part-time store associate position or aiming for a management role, understanding the salary structure and compensation potential at Ross can help you plan your career path wisely.
This article provides a detailed look into average Ross salaries, salary ranges by job type and experience level, benefits, job outlook, and factors that influence pay. It also offers comparisons with similar roles across other companies to give you a complete picture of earnings potential.
💰 What Is the Average Ross Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average salary at Ross varies significantly based on job type, location, and experience level. Here’s a general overview:
Store Associate / Retail Sales Associate: $14 – $17 per hour ($29,000 – $35,000 annually full-time)
Cashier: $13 – $15 per hour
Assistant Store Manager: $48,000 – $58,000
Store Manager: $70,000 – $90,000
Loss Prevention Associate: $16 – $20 per hour
Warehouse / Distribution Center Worker: $17 – $22 per hour
Corporate Roles (HR, Finance, Merchandising): $65,000 – $130,000+ depending on department and level
📈 Salary by Experience Level
Like most large retail companies, Ross offers salary growth based on experience and tenure. Here’s a typical salary progression:
Entry-Level (0–1 year): $13 – $16/hour
Mid-Level (2–5 years): $16 – $21/hour or $45,000 – $70,000/year
Experienced / Leadership Roles (5+ years): $70,000 – $120,000/year
Employees who start in entry-level roles and show strong performance can move into assistant management roles within a couple of years, with opportunities for further advancement.
🔍 Factors That Influence Salary at Ross
Several factors determine how much an employee earns at Ross:
1. Job Position and Department
Roles in management, logistics, and corporate operations naturally come with higher pay compared to entry-level store positions.
2. Geographic Location
Pay rates vary based on cost of living. For example, employees in California or New York may earn more than those in rural or low-cost states.
3. Experience and Performance
Promotions and raises are available to long-term employees who meet or exceed performance expectations.
4. Education and Certification
For corporate and technical roles (such as finance, merchandising, or supply chain), a bachelor’s degree or specialized training can increase salary potential.
📊 Job Market Trends for Ross and Retail in 2026
In 2026, the retail industry remains resilient, especially in discount and off-price sectors like Ross, which thrive during periods of economic uncertainty. Trends shaping Ross’s employment and salary outlook include:
Increased demand for warehouse and logistics staff
Continued growth in store count and geographic expansion
More internal promotion opportunities due to talent retention efforts
With its steady growth model and strong brand presence, Ross remains a stable employer with upward mobility for those who stay and grow with the company.
🎁 Benefits of Working at Ross
In addition to competitive pay, Ross offers several benefits that enhance overall compensation:
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Employee discount program
Paid time off and sick leave
Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
🧾 Take-Home Pay on a $103K Salary
For corporate-level employees or store/district managers earning $103,000 annually, the estimated take-home pay after taxes in 2026 is roughly $72,000 – $76,000, depending on the state, filing status, and benefits deductions.
📚 Education and Certification Impact on Pay
While retail store roles typically do not require higher education, the following can boost earning potential for corporate or leadership positions:
Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, HR, or supply chain
Retail Management Certification
MBA or specialized certifications for higher-level corporate roles
Training in systems like SAP, Oracle, or merchandising tools
🔁 Comparable Salaries in Similar Roles
Here’s how Ross salaries stack up against related roles across industries:
Peloton Instructor: $80,000 – $150,000+ (with media presence)
Test Engineers: $75,000 – $100,000
Senior Lead Navigator at Auxano: $90,000 – $110,000
Retail Managers at Target or Walmart: $65,000 – $95,000
✅ Final Thoughts
Ross remains a solid employer in 2026 for both entry-level workers and experienced professionals seeking stability, benefits, and growth. With competitive salaries, room for advancement, and a strong market position, it’s a viable choice for those interested in retail or corporate roles.
Whether you’re aiming to start your career in-store or move into corporate operations, understanding the full scope of Ross salaries and benefits will help you make smart career decisions.
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