Hospitality & Tourism New York (NY) Rank #5 of 50

Travel Agent Salary in New York

The median travel agent salary in New York is $56,608 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median of $46,400.

Median Salary
$56,608
vs National
+$10,208
State Rank
#5 of 50
Cost of Living
122%

Travel Agent Salary Overview in New York (2026)

New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for travel agent compensation. This places New York in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for travel agents seeking high pay. At $56,608 per year, travel agents in New York earn $10,208 more than the national median of $46,400.

It's worth noting that New York's cost of living is 122% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $56,608 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $46,400.

The salary spread in New York is significant: travel agents at the 10th percentile earn $34,160, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,160 — a $61,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New York for this role is New York City, where the median reaches $86,768.

Nationally, travel agent employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for travel agents across the country.

Travel Agent Salary in New York by Experience

In New York, an entry-level travel agent earns around $36,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,840 per year. The cost of living index in New York is 122% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,600
+$6,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,560
+$10,560 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$87,840
+$15,840 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New York

Percentile NY Salary
10th Percentile $34,160
25th Percentile $43,920
Median (50th) $56,608
75th Percentile $74,420
90th Percentile $95,160

Travel Agent Salary by City in New York

The largest employment areas for travel agents in New York include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Yonkers. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Travel Agent in New York

Education

Most travel agent positions require a high school diploma. New York has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Booking SystemsDestination KnowledgeCustomer ServiceSalesItinerary PlanningProblem Solving

Job Outlook in New York

Nationally, travel agent employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). New York's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Open to Travel Agent Roles in New York?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Travel Agent Salary in New York

How much does a Travel Agent make in New York? ▼
The median travel agent salary in New York is $56,608 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median of $46,400. Salaries range from $34,160 (10th percentile) to $95,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Travel Agent make per hour in New York? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $56,608, a travel agent in New York earns approximately $27 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New York a good state for travel agents? ▼
New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for travel agent pay. The cost of living index is 122% of the national average. Entry-level travel agents earn $36,600, while senior professionals earn $87,840.
How does New York compare to other states for travel agent salary? ▼
The highest paying state for travel agents is Hawaii at $78,880. New York's median of $56,608 ranks #5 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Massachusetts ($62,640) and Alaska ($57,536).
What is the entry-level travel agent salary in New York? ▼
An entry-level travel agent in New York earns approximately $36,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $58,560. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $87,840.
What city in New York pays travel agents the most? ▼
New York City is the highest paying city in New York for travel agents, with a median salary of $86,768. Other cities include Buffalo and Rochester.