If you’re eyeing a leadership role in retail, becoming a store manager at Ross Dress for Less offers a rewarding path with strong compensation, benefits, and long-term career prospects. This comprehensive 2026 guide explores Ross store manager salaries, including average pay, experience-based variations, take-home earnings, and job market trends. Whether you’re planning your next move or exploring retail leadership careers, this guide delivers real-world insights to help you make informed decisions.
💵 Average Ross Store Manager Salary in 2026
In 2026, the average salary for a Ross store manager in the U.S. is between $83,000 and $103,000 per year, depending on store volume, location, and experience.
General Salary Range:
Entry-Level Manager (1–3 years): $70,000 – $85,000
Mid-Level Manager (3–7 years): $88,000 – $100,000
Senior Manager (8+ years): $100,000 – $115,000+
Ross also offers annual performance bonuses, often ranging from 10% to 25% of base salary for high-performing stores.
🧠 Key Factors Influencing Salary
Ross salaries are influenced by multiple variables that impact total compensation:
1. Experience & Tenure
More experienced managers handle higher-volume stores or move into district roles, which boosts salary and bonuses.
2. Location
Store managers in high-cost-of-living cities like Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle earn on the higher end of the pay scale.
3. Store Volume & Size
Managers at larger or higher-revenue locations typically earn more due to the increased responsibility.
4. Education & Training
While a degree isn’t always required, a background in business, management, or retail operations can influence starting salary.
5. Performance Bonuses
Bonuses based on sales targets, shrink control, and customer satisfaction significantly impact annual take-home pay.
🧮 Take-Home Pay on a $103,000 Salary
A Ross store manager earning $103,000 in 2026 will take home approximately $72,000 to $78,000 annually after federal and state taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. Actual take-home depends on:
State income tax
Health insurance or retirement deductions
401(k) contributions
💼 Salary by Comparison: Similar Roles in 2026
Let’s compare Ross store manager earnings to related retail or management positions in 2026:
Target Store Manager: $95,000 – $130,000
Walmart Store Manager: $105,000 – $160,000
Peloton Instructor: $80,000 – $150,000+ (depending on popularity)
Test Engineer (Software/Hardware): $75,000 – $100,000
Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano Health): $90,000 – $110,000
While some tech and fitness roles offer higher pay, Ross managers benefit from consistent salaries, leadership paths, and strong corporate support.
📈 Job Market Outlook for Store Managers at Ross
The job outlook for retail managers in 2026 is stable and growing due to:
A resurgence in brick-and-mortar retail
High turnover in retail leadership creating openings
Expansion of Ross and similar off-price retailers
Increased focus on store experience and operations
🎓 Education, Skills & Certifications That Help
Although Ross does not require a college degree, having certain qualifications can improve job prospects and compensation:
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail, or Management (optional but helpful)
Strong leadership and team-building skills
Experience with inventory control, shrink reduction, and customer service
Valuable Certifications:
CPM (Certified Professional Manager)
Retail Management Certificate from accredited colleges
LEAN Six Sigma or related operations management credentials
🌟 Benefits of Being a Ross Store Manager
In addition to salary, Ross provides a competitive benefits package, including:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match
Performance bonuses
Stock purchase plan
Paid time off and holidays
Employee discount
Some roles also come with relocation assistance or district-level promotion opportunities.
✅ Final Thoughts
Becoming a Ross store manager in 2026 can offer a stable, well-paying career with opportunities for growth. With salaries often exceeding $100K and a comprehensive benefits package, it’s an attractive option for those with strong leadership and operational skills. The job market remains favorable, especially for candidates with experience and a results-driven mindset.
Whether you’re transitioning from another retail chain or rising through the ranks at Ross, now is a great time to explore or grow in this role.