Commission-based jobs are popular in sales because they offer reps the opportunity to make more money. The better you perform, the more you can make in your job. They can also be highly competitive and bring more stress to your job. 

It’s estimated that about half of all sales jobs have a commission component built into compensation plans. But what sales roles have the highest commission percentage? 

Below, our sales recruiters have put together a list of the sales jobs associated with the highest commission percentages. Then, we’ll answer some common questions people have about commission-based compensation. 

A List of the Jobs With The Highest Commission Percentage

Sales jobs with the highest commission percentages are typically found in industries that feature high-ticket products or services, large profit margins, and extended sales cycles. Here are some of the top roles known for offering high commission percentages:

1. Real Estate Agent (up to 6%)

Real estate transactions typically involve large sums of money, meaning even a small commission percentage can translate to a substantial payday. Agents invest significant time in marketing properties, organizing showings, negotiating deals, and guiding clients through the legal and financial intricacies of a sale. Commissions are often shared with brokerages or split between buyers’ and sellers’ agents, but high property values ensure strong earning potential.

2. Software/SaaS Sales (up to 20%)

In the tech industry, especially in enterprise B2B software or SaaS (Software as a Service), deal sizes can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. These sales often involve long, complex sales cycles with multiple decision-makers. High commissions are used to incentivize reps to manage these processes, close large contracts, and help drive recurring revenue for the company.

3. Medical Device Sales (up to 30%)

Medical device reps often work in high-stakes environments, such as operating rooms or hospitals, where their products are essential for patient care. These products are typically expensive and highly specialized. Sales reps require deep product knowledge and often build long-term relationships with medical professionals. High commissions compensate for the expertise required and the technical, consultative nature of the sale.

4. Financial Services (up to 20%)

In financial services, commissions are earned on the sale of financial products such as insurance, investment funds, or retirement plans. Many of these products carry significant upfront fees, and agents may also earn ongoing residual income based on account performance or client retention. The complexity and responsibility involved in handling someone’s financial future justify the higher earning potential.

5. Luxury Goods Sales (up to 15%)

Luxury retail professionals sell high-end products like jewelry, watches, designer fashion, or exotic cars, where even one sale can represent a five- or six-figure transaction. Salespeople in this field often work with wealthy clients who expect top-tier service and expertise. Commissions are structured to reward this high-touch approach and compensate for the extended time it may take to close a sale.

6. Recruitment or Executive Search (up to 35%)

Recruiters and headhunters, especially those focused on executive or technical roles, earn commissions based on the salaries of the candidates they place. Since senior-level hires command high compensation, even a modest percentage can result in large commission payouts. Some firms offer recruiters over 50% of the placement fee as an incentive, especially in competitive industries where talent is scarce and hard to secure.

7. Advertising or Media Sales (up to 30%)

Ad and media sales professionals are responsible for selling space or airtime across various platforms, including digital, print, TV, and social media. These contracts can be sizable, particularly when dealing with large brands or long-term campaigns. Because this industry is driven by client relationships and revenue targets, commissions are designed to motivate reps to secure large ad buys and repeat business.

While high commission percentages are attractive, these roles often come with high pressure, steep quotas, and sometimes no base salary (100% commission structure). Success also depends on factors like network, experience, product knowledge, and industry demand.

What commission percentage is considered high?

In many industries, a commission range between 20% and 30% is commonly regarded as equitable and competitive. However, this range can fluctuate depending on the industry, the specific role, and the company’s overall compensation strategy. It is important to remember that commission structures are designed to incentivize performance and reward success in closing deals and generating revenue.

What is a 100% commission sales job?

A 100% commission sales job means that you will only be paid based on the commission you earn on sales. You do not have a base salary to fall back on. For some people, this is not appealing because their income will fluctuate based on their performance. Others thrive on the opportunity to have no cap on earnings and enjoy the challenge. 

What is a 70-30 commission split?

In a standard 70/30 commission split, the brokerage (company) receives 70% of the sale’s commission, while the agent earns 30%. For instance, if a sales rep makes a $100 sale and $70 would go to the company and $30 would go to the rep. 

A Final Word About High Commission Percentage Jobs In Sales

Sales jobs with the highest commission percentages tend to be found in industries where the value of each transaction is significant and the sales process is complex. While the potential for high earnings is a major draw, it comes with equally high expectations, requiring strong product knowledge, persistence, and the ability to build trust with clients. 

Whether you’re considering a career in one of these fields or simply want to understand the earning potential in commission-based roles, it’s important to weigh both the financial upside and the demands of the job. Reach out to our sales professionals if you are looking for a job in sales or it’s time to make a career move. 

More About Commission-Based Sales Jobs

What Is A Good Sales Commission? How Are They Calculated?

Should You Take A Commission Only Sales Job?

How Do You Recruit Commission-Only Salespeople? (And Pros & Cons)