Thinking of working at Home Depot in 2026? Or maybe you’re just curious how much those friendly orange-apron experts are making? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve gathered the latest and best info to help you understand what kind of paycheck you might expect from America’s go-to home improvement store.
TL;DR: The average Home Depot worker in 2026 makes between $16 and $23 per hour, depending on the role, location, and experience. Entry-level positions often start at $16 per hour, while more experienced or specialized staff can earn well over $20 per hour. There are also bonuses and benefits that sweeten the deal, like health coverage and tuition assistance. It’s a pretty solid job if you’re looking to start or build a career in retail!
What’s the Starting Pay at Home Depot in 2026?
Most new workers at Home Depot start around $16 to $17 per hour in 2026. That’s above the federal minimum wage, which is still $7.25 (yikes!). Home Depot wants to keep its employees happy, so the company has raised their hourly wages several times over the years.
Here’s a quick breakdown of some common entry-level positions and their estimated hourly pay in 2026:
- Cashier: $16 – $17/hour
- Sales Associate: $16.50 – $18/hour
- Lot Associate: $16/hour
- Customer Service Rep: $17 – $18.50/hour
These numbers can change a bit based on location. Workers in big cities usually earn more than those in small towns. Why? Because the cost of living is higher in places like New York or San Francisco.
Who Makes the Big Bucks?
If you stick around or bring in some special skills, you’ll move up the ladder. And that means more money.
Here are some higher-paying positions:
- Department Supervisor: $21 – $24/hour
- Assistant Store Manager: $52,000 – $65,000/year
- Store Manager: $90,000 – $120,000/year
Some of those salaried roles also have performance bonuses and other perks. Not bad for a job that doesn’t require a college degree!
Bonuses, Benefits, and Perks
Hourly wage is great, but benefits make a big difference, too. Home Depot has a solid package. Let’s talk extras!
- Health Insurance: Available for full-time employees
- 401(k) Plans: With company matching
- Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,000/year in some cases
- Employee Discounts: Mostly on partner brands, not Home Depot merch
- Stock Purchase Plans: You can own a piece of the company
Even part-time workers qualify for some of these perks. That’s a pretty sweet deal if you’re going back to school or working part-time while raising a family.
Why Do Wages Vary by Location?
Simple answer: Cost of living. A worker in Texas won’t earn the same as someone in California. Home Depot adjusts wages based on local economics.
Here are a few examples of what a Sales Associate might earn in different cities:
- Atlanta, GA: $17/hour
- Los Angeles, CA: $21/hour
- Chicago, IL: $19/hour
- Bismarck, ND: $16/hour
The same job pays more in high-cost cities because everything—from rent to groceries—is more expensive!
How Do You Get a Raise at Home Depot?
You don’t have to wait forever. Many employees receive raises once a year during performance reviews. And if you’re a good worker, that raise can be meaningful—up to $1/hour or more each year.
You can also earn more by switching roles. Moving from cashier to sales associate? That’s usually a quick jump in pay. Taking on a supervisor role? Expect another nice bump.
What About Overtime?
If you work more than 40 hours a week, you get 1.5x your hourly rate. That’s extra cash for weekends and evenings if you’re up for the challenge.
Some employees like to rack up overtime when they can, especially around the holidays or during big spring gardening rushes. Those times get hectic—and busy means better pay.
Does Experience Matter?
Yes! Someone who’s been working at Home Depot for five years will likely earn a few dollars more per hour than someone who just started last week.
Here’s how experience can change things:
- 0-1 years: $16 – $17/hour
- 2-3 years: $18 – $20/hour
- 4+ years: $21 – $23/hour
Also, the longer you stay, the more likely you are to land promotions and better schedules. Loyalty pays off!
Real People. Real Stories.
Amy, a garden associate in Oregon, started in 2024 at $15/hour. By 2026, she’s making $19.50 thanks to two merit raises and a role change. She says she loves the outdoor vibes and the strong team spirit.
James, a night stocker in New Jersey, began at $16. He’s now at $20 after just 18 months! Night shifts come with a small premium—and he likes the quiet.
Compare It to Other Retail Jobs
Let’s stack it up. Is Home Depot a good deal?
- Walmart: $14 – $19/hour for most roles
- Target: $15 – $24/hour
- Lowe’s: $16 – $22/hour
- Home Depot: $16 – $23/hour
Verdict? Home Depot holds its own—and even leads in some areas. Especially when you count in career growth and solid benefits.
Final Thoughts
Working at Home Depot in 2026 doesn’t just pay the bills—it can actually set you up for a stable career. Whether you’re just getting started or aiming for management, there’s room to grow.
The base pay is competitive, the benefits are helpful, and the vibe is team-driven. If you like being on your feet, working with people, and helping solve little DIY dilemmas—this orange-apron world might be perfect for you.
So, how much do Home Depot workers make in 2026? Enough to make a difference—and maybe even enough to build that patio you’ve been dreaming about!
