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How much does a Receptionist make?

The average salary for a Receptionist is $36,799 per year in the US.

Receptionists play a key role in many workplaces. They handle first impressions and manage day-to-day front desk tasks. Their work makes a big difference. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for receptionists stands at approximately $36,800. This number reflects a solid income for those in this role.

Salary can vary based on several factors. Some receptionists earn less, while others make more. Here are some salary figures for receptionists:

  • 10% of receptionists earn less than $26,790.
  • 25% earn between $26,790 and $29,510.
  • 50% earn between $29,510 and $37,670.
  • 75% earn between $37,670 and $43,110.
  • 90% earn less than $45,800.
These figures highlight the range of earnings in this profession, showing good opportunities for growth.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Receptionist?

Receptionist roles offer competitive pay in many cities. The top-paying city for these positions is San Francisco, CA, with an average salary of $51,421. This is followed by Boston, MA, where receptionists can expect to earn around $47,342. Both cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking higher pay in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Receptionist jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $51,421 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $43,151.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $51,421
    In San Francisco, you'll find a bustling city with a vibrant professional scene. Many tech companies offer exciting opportunities for those who want to thrive in a dynamic environment. The city's culture provides a unique backdrop for those who excel in fast-paced settings.
    Find Receptionist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $47,342
    Boston offers a rich history and a thriving business community. Many education and healthcare institutions need skilled administrative professionals. The city’s professional atmosphere makes it a great place for receptionists to grow and succeed.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $47,278
    Seattle is known for its tech giants and friendly environment. Working as a receptionist here means being part of a community that values innovation. The city’s diverse businesses provide a variety of opportunities for career development.
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  4. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $46,755
    New Haven provides a mix of academic and corporate opportunities. With its rich educational institutions and growing businesses, there are many paths for receptionists to advance. The city’s smaller size offers a close-knit professional community.
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  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $46,484
    San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley, making it a prime location for tech industry jobs. Receptionists here work in cutting-edge environments and have plenty of chances for advancement. The city’s fast-paced nature suits those who thrive in dynamic settings.
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  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $46,212
    Washington, DC, offers a mix of government and private sector jobs. Working as a receptionist here means being part of a vibrant professional hub. The city’s diverse opportunities allow for growth and learning in various industries.
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  7. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $44,905
    Santa Rosa offers a more relaxed pace with a strong focus on wine country. Receptionists here enjoy a friendly work environment with plenty of opportunities in hospitality. The city’s smaller size provides a welcoming atmosphere for career growth.
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  8. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $43,577
    Los Angeles provides a bustling environment with a mix of entertainment and business sectors. Receptionists here experience a vibrant professional landscape. The city’s diverse industries offer many opportunities for career advancement.
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  9. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $43,329
    Santa Maria offers a mix of agricultural and business opportunities. Receptionists here enjoy a community-focused environment with a variety of industries. The city’s laid-back atmosphere provides a supportive setting for professional growth.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $43,151
    San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and strong business community. Working as a receptionist here means being part of a vibrant coastal city. The city’s diverse businesses provide many paths for career development.
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What are the best companies a Receptionist can work for?

Job seekers looking for top-paying positions as receptionists should consider opportunities at the State of Illinois, Yale University, and Kaiser Permanente. These companies offer competitive salaries, making them attractive choices in the industry. The average salary at these organizations ranges from $50,000 to over $57,000, reflecting their commitment to fair compensation. Exploring roles at Adams & Martin Group, Marin Community Clinics, and Open Door Community Health Centers can also yield good salaries, with average earnings close to $54,000. These companies provide valuable benefits and opportunities for professional growth, ensuring job satisfaction and career development.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Receptionist jobs, highlighting State of Illinois with the highest at $57,461 and Security Industry Specialists, Inc. with the lowest at $50,834.
  1. State of Illinois
    Average Salary: $57,461
    State of Illinois offers rewarding Receptionist positions across various locations. They value team collaboration, with offices in cities like Springfield, Chicago, and Bloomington. The job combines administrative tasks with customer service, making it an excellent choice for a dynamic work environment.


  2. Yale University
    Average Salary: $57,226
    At Yale University, Receptionists play a crucial role in supporting faculty and students. Locations in New Haven and West Haven offer a prestigious setting. This job provides the chance to interact with a diverse community, enhancing both professional and personal skills.


  3. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $54,856
    Kaiser Permanente provides competitive salaries for Receptionists. They operate in regions like California, Colorado, and Washington. The role involves managing patient appointments and administrative duties, ensuring smooth operations in healthcare settings.


  4. Adams & Martin Group
    Average Salary: $54,615
    Adams & Martin Group offers attractive opportunities for Receptionists. They are present in California and Nevada. This role combines office management with customer interaction, providing a balanced and engaging work experience.


  5. Marin Community Clinics
    Average Salary: $54,004
    Marin Community Clinics provides Receptionist positions with a strong emphasis on community service. They operate in Marin County, California. This job focuses on patient care and administrative support, making it ideal for those who value community engagement.


  6. Open Door Community Health Centers
    Average Salary: $53,870
    Open Door Community Health Centers offers Receptionist roles with a focus on healthcare support. Located in Illinois and Wisconsin, this position involves patient scheduling and administrative tasks, providing a fulfilling career path in health services.


  7. Tahoe Forest Health System
    Average Salary: $53,118
    Tahoe Forest Health System provides Receptionist positions with a rewarding work environment. They serve areas in California and Nevada. The role combines office management with healthcare support, offering a unique and fulfilling career opportunity.


  8. GEICO
    Average Salary: $51,084
    GEICO offers Receptionist roles with a dynamic and fast-paced environment. They are present nationwide. This position involves customer interaction and administrative tasks, providing a chance to be part of a leading insurance company.


  9. Northwest Center
    Average Salary: $50,951
    Northwest Center provides Receptionist positions with a focus on community support. They operate in Washington state. This role involves administrative tasks and community interaction, offering a fulfilling career path in healthcare services.


  10. Security Industry Specialists, Inc.
    Average Salary: $50,834
    Security Industry Specialists, Inc. offers Receptionist roles in the security sector. They operate in Southern California. This position involves administrative tasks and customer interaction, providing a unique career path in a growing industry.

How to earn more as a Receptionist?

A receptionist plays a key role in any office. This position requires great attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Those who excel in this role can explore several avenues to increase their earnings. One way to do this is by building a solid foundation of skills and experience. As a receptionist, gaining expertise in various office tasks can set someone apart from the competition.

Another factor is pursuing additional training and certifications. Many employers value receptionists who have taken the initiative to improve their skills. Certifications in office management, customer service, or technology can make a candidate more attractive. These credentials can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Networking with colleagues and industry professionals also can lead to better job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with others in the field can provide valuable insights and connections.

To further increase earnings, receptionists should consider these key strategies:

  1. Develop strong communication skills.
  2. Learn to use advanced office software and technology.
  3. Gain experience in different industries.
  4. Seek positions in higher-paying sectors, such as law firms or hospitals.
  5. Work overtime or take on extra responsibilities when possible.

Currently 10,028 Receptionist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Receptionist in the US?

Learn what a Receptionist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Receptionist today.
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Receptionist
10,028 Job Openings