How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make?
$52,030median annual salary
$25.01/hour · $4,336/month · BLS Code: 41-9022
Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. They are typically independent contractors who earn commissions (2.5-3% of sale price). Income varies wildly — top agents earn $200,000+ while many part-time agents earn under $25,000. The NAR settlement in 2024 is reshaping commission structures.
Real Estate Agent Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$28,270
Starting salary
Median
$52,030
50th percentile
Senior Level
$96,570
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$113,320
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Real Estate Agents
#1
New York
$81,020
#2
Massachusetts
$73,410
#3
Connecticut
$72,890
#4
New Jersey
$68,370
#5
Colorado
$67,940
Top Paying Cities for Real Estate Agents
Education & Requirements
Education
High school diploma plus state-specific real estate license (60-180 hours of coursework)
Typical Degree
High School + Real Estate License
Certifications
Job Outlook
-3%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
171,700
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Real Estate Agent Salary FAQ
How much do real estate agents make per year?
The median salary is about $52,030, but income is highly variable. The top 10% earn over $113,320 while the bottom 10% earn under $28,270. Many agents work part-time, which skews averages downward.
How do real estate agents get paid?
Most agents earn commissions based on sale price, typically 2.5-3% of the home's value. On a $400,000 home, that is $10,000-$12,000 per transaction, split with their brokerage.
Is real estate a good career?
It can be highly lucrative for self-motivated salespeople willing to work irregular hours and handle income instability. Most new agents leave within 5 years. Success requires building a client base and strong local market knowledge.
How long does it take to get a real estate license?
4-6 months on average. Requirements vary by state but typically include 60-180 hours of pre-licensing education, passing a state exam, and finding a sponsoring brokerage.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.