Travel agents in the U.S. typically earn between $25,000 and more than $100,000 per year, depending on experience, niche, and business model. Independent agents starting with host agencies average around $44,000, while mid-career professionals often earn $66,000–$79,000. Franchise owners and top-performing advisors can exceed six figures, especially when supported by training and strong supplier relationships.
If you’re considering this career, it’s important to understand how travel agents earn money, what influences income, and how to maximize your potential.
Average Travel Agent Salary in 2025
Earnings vary depending on whether a travel advisor works independently, with a host agency, or as a franchise owner.
Independent and hosted travel agents usually fall into mid-range salary levels. Salary.com places the average annual income for U.S. travel agents around $57,851, with most earning between $49,935 and $67,595. Glassdoor reports a similar average at $62,374 per year, with higher ranges for experienced professionals.
Franchise owners, on the other hand, often report significantly higher income potential. Host Agency Reviews notes that full-time franchise owners leveraging structured training, supplier relationships, and marketing support frequently earn $80,000+ annually, with many surpassing six figures.
A major reason for this success is that a Cruise Planners franchise is a turnkey travel business. Unlike independent owners who must invest heavily in website development, social media, digital marketing, and booking technology, Cruise Planners provides these tools upfront. Franchisees don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs for essential business operations like mail marketing campaigns, client management systems, or advanced reservation tracking. This built-in infrastructure allows new advisors to focus on growing sales instead of building systems from scratch.
If you’re interested in this path, see how STAR University helps entrepreneurs become a certified travel agent through a proven franchise model.
How Travel Agents Earn Money
Unlike traditional salaried jobs, most travel agents earn through a mix of commissions and fees.
- Commissions: Paid by airlines, hotels, cruises, and tour operators. Percentages vary, often 10–16% for hotels and cruises.
- Service fees: Many advisors charge clients for itinerary planning or complex bookings.
- Overrides and bonuses: Agents who sell high volumes may earn supplier bonuses.
This performance-based model means income grows as you build your client base. For more context, explore what a travel agent does day to day.
Factors That Influence Income
Several variables affect how much a travel agent makes:
- Experience level: Earnings increase as advisors gain referrals and expertise.
- Business model: Host agencies split commissions; franchises add support; independents manage everything themselves.
- Niche specialization: Luxury, cruises, and Disney vacations often generate higher commissions.
- Marketing skills: Strong digital marketing and networking can expand income quickly.
- Legal compliance: States like California, Florida, and Washington have Seller of Travel laws that affect business setup. See travel agent certification by state for details.
How Business Models Shape Travel Agent Salary
One of the biggest factors in travel agent income is the business model. Advisors who join hosted agencies often start with lower earnings, since commissions are shared, but they gain immediate access to suppliers, systems, and training programs. Independent advisors and luxury travel advisors can command higher fees, especially when specializing in high-end trips with VIP perks such as private tours or concierge services.
Franchise owners operate differently. Because they run a turnkey business with partner hotels, strong supplier relationships, and built-in technology, they can scale faster. Cruise Planners franchisees, for example, avoid out-of-pocket costs for digital marketing, travel booking systems, and customer service platforms, allowing them to focus on sales and client satisfaction. This structure often translates into stronger earning potential compared to independents who must build everything from scratch.
Income Potential by Career Path
Your career path has a direct impact on income:
- Host agencies: Lower barrier to entry with shared commissions and support. Typical range: $25,000–$50,000 in early years.
- Independent agencies: More control and higher potential, but also more responsibility. Experienced independents often reach $50,000–$100,000+.
- Franchises: Balanced model with independence plus structured support. Cruise Planners franchise owners not only gain access to award-winning technology and supplier relationships but also benefit from included marketing and digital infrastructure. With turnkey support covering websites, email campaigns, social media, and booking systems, franchisees avoid the extra expenses most entrepreneurs face. Many Cruise Planners owners earn six figures by leveraging these advantages.
For those motivated by entrepreneurship, check out how to turn your passion for travel into a profitable career.
Additional Factors That Influence Travel Agent Pay
Beyond experience and business model, other industry variables can influence how much a travel agent earns.
- Tour operators and cruise lines: Agents who book group tours or cruises often benefit from higher commission percentages.
- Travel insurance and car rentals: Adding these services to itineraries provides extra revenue streams and improves client protection.
- Seller of Travel laws: Agents in states like California or Florida must meet regulatory requirements, which can affect startup timelines and costs.
- Industry data: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for travel agents remains competitive compared to other service industries.
- Client service: Exceptional customer service not only drives referrals but also justifies charging service fees, adding to overall income.
Taken together, these factors demonstrate why income potential varies so widely. Advisors who diversify revenue streams, stay compliant with regulations, and focus on client relationships are often the ones who see steady growth year after year.
How Certification Impacts Travel Agent Salary
While not required, certification enhances credibility and can increase earnings. Suppliers often prioritize certified agents when offering higher commissions.
- Certified Travel Associate (CTA®) for newer advisors.
- Certified Travel Counselor (CTC®) for experienced professionals.
- CLIA certifications for cruise specialists.
Certification not only improves skills but also builds client trust. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a certified travel agent.
Is Becoming a Travel Agent Worth It Financially?
So, is it worth it? For many, the answer is yes. While starting salaries may be modest, experienced agents and franchise owners who build strong client bases can earn a substantial income. Add in travel perks, flexibility, and independence, and the career offers rewards beyond just the paycheck.
Travel Agent Salary and Income Potential
Travel agents can earn anywhere from entry-level salaries of $25,000 to more than $100,000 a year, depending on experience, specialization, and business model. Franchise owners and niche experts often have the highest earning potential, thanks to structured support and strong supplier recognition.
If you’re serious about this path, start by reviewing how to become a travel agent for a step-by-step guide. When you’re ready to launch with confidence, the STAR University certification program provides training, tools, and a proven franchise model to help you succeed.