The big difference is the type of job you can get.
If you want to work retail you can make decent money, but you are standing all day, dealing with entitled people and work hours that make it difficult to have a life. If you want a 9-5 better get a degree.
I was making over $60k a year managing a small retail store.
It isn't too hard to break into management of boutique retail shops, but you are basically a rep who doesn't get overtime and has a few additional responsibilities. A part time job at a big corporation won't be a living wage, but it's possible to make a living in retail.
The job really sucks though.