How much does a Receptionist make?
A Receptionist's job involves greeting visitors, answering phone calls, and managing office tasks. People in this role can expect a variety of salaries based on experience and location. On average, a Receptionist makes around $36,792 per year. This figure serves as a benchmark for many in this profession.
Here’s a breakdown of salaries based on experience:
- The lowest 10% earn about $24,500 annually.
- The next 20% make between $24,500 and $32,545 per year.
- The middle 30% earn between $32,545 and $37,909 annually.
- The next 20% make between $37,909 and $43,273 per year.
- The highest 10% earn $54,000 or more per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Receptionist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $51,147
Working in San Francisco means you will greet visitors to some of the most iconic tech companies. With companies like Salesforce and Slack, you will meet a diverse group of professionals every day. The city's vibrant atmosphere offers a dynamic work environment.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $47,088
In Boston, you can look forward to interacting with clients for well-known companies such as General Electric and Liberty Mutual. The city's rich history and academic institutions create an engaging environment. You will find a mix of traditional and modern businesses.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,077
Seattle offers a unique blend of tech and nature in your daily work. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are prominent employers. You will experience a friendly, yet fast-paced environment. The city's green spaces provide a refreshing backdrop to your work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $46,241
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. You will interact with a variety of professionals for tech giants like Google and Intel. The city's innovative culture is infectious, making your role more engaging. You will be part of a community that values creativity and excellence.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $46,190
New Haven offers a charming atmosphere with a mix of historical and modern companies. You will work for organizations like Yale University and various local businesses. The city's friendly vibe and rich culture create a welcoming work environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $46,158
In Washington, DC, you will engage with visitors from around the world for companies like Deloitte and the World Bank. The city's political and corporate influence provides a dynamic setting. You will experience a blend of professionalism and international diversity.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $44,866
Santa Rosa offers a relaxed yet professional work environment. With local businesses and tech companies nearby, you will interact with a variety of clients. The city's beautiful scenery provides a peaceful backdrop to your daily tasks.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,555
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment with a mix of entertainment and corporate companies. You will greet clients for firms like NBCUniversal and Disney. The city's vibrant culture and diverse population create an exciting work atmosphere.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $43,294
Santa Maria provides a laid-back yet productive work environment. You will engage with clients for local businesses and agricultural companies. The city's scenic beauty and small-town feel offer a welcoming work atmosphere.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $43,018
San Diego offers a beautiful coastal environment with a mix of tech and military companies. You will interact with a diverse group of professionals for firms like Qualcomm and the Navy. The city's sunny weather and outdoor activities provide a pleasant work setting.
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What are the best companies a Receptionist can work for?

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South Peninsula Hospital
Average Salary: $68,197
South Peninsula Hospital provides excellent benefits for their Receptionist positions. This company has multiple locations in Anchorage, Alaska. They value their receptionists highly, offering competitive salaries and a positive work environment.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $57,461
The State of Illinois is renowned for its comprehensive benefits package. The reception positions are available in various state offices across Illinois. Receptionists here often find meaningful work, supporting a vast network of state services.
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Yale University
Average Salary: $55,982
Yale University offers a dynamic work environment with competitive salaries. Receptionists can find roles on the main campus in New Haven, Connecticut. The university provides excellent benefits and professional growth opportunities.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $54,950
Kaiser Permanente is a leader in healthcare, offering competitive wages for their receptionists. With locations throughout the western United States, Kaiser Permanente provides comprehensive benefits and a supportive work culture.
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Marin Community Clinics
Average Salary: $53,768
Marin Community Clinics offers competitive salaries for Receptionist roles. They serve communities in Marin County, California, with several clinics providing diverse and rewarding work environments for receptionists.
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Adams & Martin Group
Average Salary: $53,643
Adams & Martin Group is known for its supportive atmosphere. Receptionists work in their offices across multiple states, including New York and New Jersey. They offer competitive salaries and opportunities for career advancement.
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Tahoe Forest Health System
Average Salary: $52,463
Tahoe Forest Health System provides a welcoming workplace with competitive salaries. They operate in the beautiful Lake Tahoe area, offering receptionist roles with excellent benefits and a friendly environment.
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GEICO
Average Salary: $51,576
GEICO is a leading insurance company with receptionist positions across the United States. Receptionists enjoy competitive pay and a professional work environment, with opportunities to grow within the company.
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Security Industry Specialists, Inc.
Average Salary: $50,546
Security Industry Specialists, Inc. offers competitive wages for their receptionists. With locations across the country, they provide a dynamic and rewarding work experience. Their benefits are comprehensive, supporting professional development.
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MACT HEALTH BOARD INC
Average Salary: $50,518
MACT HEALTH BOARD INC provides stable employment with competitive salaries. They operate in various locations, focusing on health and wellness. Receptionists find their roles to be rewarding, with opportunities to make a difference in their communities.
How to earn more as a Receptionist?
Being a receptionist can be a fulfilling career, but earning more requires some extra effort and skills. Here are some factors that can help increase earnings for a receptionist.
First, gaining experience helps. The more experience a receptionist has, the more they can handle complex tasks. This can make them more valuable to employers. Employers often pay more for these additional skills. Second, learning new software or technology can be very helpful. Knowing how to use customer relationship management (CRM) systems or other office tools can make a receptionist more efficient. This skill can be a big bonus for many companies.
- Gain Experience: Experience leads to better pay.
- Learn New Skills: Technology skills are valuable.
- Get Certifications: Certifications can boost earning potential.
- Network: Connections can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Seek Promotions: Moving up can increase salary.



