Ross Stores, one of the largest off-price retail chains in the U.S., offers a wide range of career opportunities from in-store roles to corporate leadership. Whether you’re starting as a retail associate or aiming for a management or operations position, understanding the salary structure in 2026 is essential for planning your career.
This article covers average salaries, pay by experience, market trends, comparable roles, benefits, and what can boost your earnings at Ross Stores.
📊 Average Salary at Ross Stores in 2026
Company-wide average salary: $81,000 annually
Hourly wage across all positions: $14.50 per hour (on average)
Entry-level retail associate wage: $11.75 per hour
Typical yearly earnings for full-time associates: $24,000 – $29,000
💼 Salary by Role and Experience
Ross offers a wide range of pay depending on position and experience:
| Role | Typical Salary Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Retail Associate | $22,000 – $29,000 |
| Cashier or Stock Clerk | $24,000 – $28,000 |
| Assistant Store Manager | $32,000 – $38,000 |
| Store Manager | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Buyer | $85,000 – $160,000 |
| Assistant Buyer | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| Operations Supervisor | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| Director of Operations | $100,000 – $200,000+ |
| Corporate Analyst or Manager | $75,000 – $130,000+ |
These ranges depend on geographic location, tenure, and performance.
🧠 What Affects Salary at Ross Stores?
Several key factors influence salary levels:
1. Experience
New hires usually start at base pay.
Promotions and loyalty are rewarded, especially at the store level.
2. Location
Urban areas like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco tend to offer higher wages due to cost of living.
3. Role Type
Frontline roles (cashiers, sales associates) have lower pay.
Corporate or supply chain roles offer higher salaries and growth potential.
4. Education & Certification
A degree in retail management, business, logistics, or finance can lead to faster promotion.
Certifications like Six Sigma, supply chain credentials, or leadership training can enhance pay.
📈 Job Outlook and Market Trends
Ross continues to thrive in the off-price retail segment, with steady store expansion and a strong online presence.
Trends for 2026:
Resilient Retail Demand: Budget-conscious shoppers keep off-price chains strong.
Internal Promotions: Many leadership roles are filled from within.
Growth in Supply Chain and Tech: Warehouse and data-focused roles are expanding and often better paid.
🎁 Employee Benefits and Perks
Ross offers more than just a paycheck. Employees often receive:
Merchandise discounts
Health insurance options
Paid time off
401(k) retirement plans
Bonuses (for managers and corporate roles)
Flexible schedules for part-time workers or students
💸 $103,000 Salary: Take-Home Pay
For a Ross employee or corporate manager earning $103,000 in 2026:
Estimated federal and state taxes: ~$25,000 – $30,000
Annual take-home pay: Approximately $73,000 – $78,000
Actual take-home depends on state of residence, deductions, and benefit contributions.
⚖️ How Ross Compares to Other Jobs
Here’s how Ross compensation stacks up against similar roles in other industries:
Peloton Instructor: $80,000 – $150,000+ (top earners higher)
Test Engineer (Tech Industry): $75,000 – $105,000
Senior Lead Navigator (Healthcare): $120,000 – $160,000
Retail Associate at Competitors: $12 – $15/hour on average
While frontline roles at Ross are on par with retail averages, the upper-tier positions—especially in buying, operations, and corporate strategy—offer competitive salaries.
🛠️ Tips to Increase Your Salary at Ross
Aim for internal promotions by developing leadership skills early.
Cross-train in merchandising or logistics to move into higher-paying departments.
Pursue certifications like retail management, logistics, or business analytics.
Request feedback regularly and set growth goals with supervisors.
Apply for lateral moves into corporate support, which often pay more.
📝 Final Thoughts
Ross Stores offers a wide salary spectrum depending on role and experience. Entry-level workers can expect wages in the mid-$20,000s, while managers, buyers, and directors can earn well into six figures. With consistent performance, education, and strategic career moves, Ross employees have significant room to grow.
Whether you’re starting out or targeting corporate roles, Ross Stores in 2026 presents a solid career path with stable growth, competitive benefits, and multiple avenues for advancement.
Let me know if you want this tailored into a career guide, company comparison, or resume tips for applying to Ross!