Receptionist Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Receptionist make?

The average salary for a Receptionist is $36,395 per year in the US.

A receptionist plays a key role in any office. They manage the front desk and handle many important tasks. The salary for a receptionist can vary based on experience and location. On average, a receptionist makes around $36,395 per year. This is a good starting point for those new to the job.

Several factors can affect a receptionist's salary. These include the size of the company, the industry, and the area where the job is located. For example, receptionists in larger cities may earn more than those in smaller towns. Experience also matters. Those with more years in the job often see higher pay. A receptionist with a few years of experience might earn between $24,500 and $32,545 per year. As experience grows, so can the salary, reaching up to $54,000 for those with the most experience.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Receptionist?

Job seekers looking for top-paying receptionist positions can find excellent opportunities in several cities. San Francisco, CA, leads the way with an average salary of $49,076. Seattle, WA, and Washington, DC, follow closely with salaries of $45,746 and $44,612, respectively. These cities offer competitive wages and a chance to thrive in a dynamic work environment.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Receptionist jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $49,076 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $41,034.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $49,076
    In San Francisco, working as a receptionist offers a dynamic environment. Many tech companies, such as Salesforce and Slack, need skilled receptionists. The city's vibrant culture adds to the professional experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $45,746
    Seattle provides a welcoming atmosphere for receptionists. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft require professionals who can handle a high volume of visitors. The city's scenic beauty enhances the work experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $44,612
    In Washington, DC, receptionists work in a bustling environment. Government agencies and law firms need professionals who can manage their front desks efficiently. The city's rich history adds a unique backdrop to the job.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Washington, DC


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $44,592
    San Jose offers a tech-driven environment for receptionists. Companies like Intel and eBay need skilled receptionists. The city's growing tech scene provides a vibrant work atmosphere.
    Find Receptionist jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $44,330
    Boston provides a historic setting for receptionists. Many universities and financial institutions need professionals who can handle their front desks. The city's rich history and culture enhance the work experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Boston, MA


  6. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $42,822
    New Haven offers a charming environment for receptionists. Yale University and local businesses need professionals who can manage their front desks. The city's academic and cultural vibe adds a unique touch to the job.
    Find Receptionist jobs in New Haven, CT


  7. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $41,911
    In Los Angeles, receptionists work in a vibrant and diverse environment. Entertainment companies and local businesses need professionals who can handle their front desks. The city's entertainment industry adds a dynamic aspect to the job.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  8. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $41,681
    Santa Rosa provides a relaxed yet professional environment for receptionists. Local businesses and wineries need professionals who can manage their front desks. The city's scenic beauty enhances the work experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  9. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $41,480
    Stamford offers a corporate environment for receptionists. Many financial institutions and local businesses need professionals who can handle their front desks. The city's business-friendly atmosphere adds to the job experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Stamford, CT


  10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $41,034
    In Denver, receptionists work in a vibrant and outdoor-friendly environment. Local businesses and tech companies need professionals who can manage their front desks. The city's scenic beauty and outdoor activities enhance the work experience.
    Find Receptionist jobs in Denver, CO

What are the best companies a Receptionist can work for?

Job seekers looking for top-paying receptionist roles can find excellent opportunities at JLL, High Country Search Group, and Kaiser Permanente. These companies offer competitive salaries, making them attractive choices for those in the field. Aspiring receptionists should consider these employers for their potential to provide both financial stability and a positive work environment.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Receptionist jobs, highlighting JLL with the highest at $55,288 and RDC with the lowest at $51,000.
  1. JLL
    Average Salary: $55,288
    JLL offers rewarding Receptionist jobs with a focus on providing excellent customer service. They operate in many cities across the U.S. and globally, offering dynamic work environments.


  2. High Country Search Group
    Average Salary: $54,273
    High Country Search Group provides Receptionist roles with a strong emphasis on teamwork and client interaction. They are located in various regions, ensuring diverse work experiences.


  3. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $52,895
    Kaiser Permanente offers competitive salaries for Receptionist jobs. They focus on patient care and have locations throughout California, Hawaii, and other states.


  4. Federal Bureau of Prisons
    Average Salary: $52,642
    The Federal Bureau of Prisons provides Receptionist jobs with a focus on security and administrative tasks. They operate in multiple federal prisons across the country.


  5. High End Hiring
    Average Salary: $51,935
    High End Hiring offers Receptionist positions with a focus on high-level administrative support. They have locations in major cities, providing diverse work experiences.


  6. Northwest Center
    Average Salary: $51,884
    Northwest Center provides Receptionist jobs with a focus on patient care and administrative support. They operate in several locations, offering a variety of work environments.


  7. Pacific Cataract And Laser Institute
    Average Salary: $51,801
    Pacific Cataract And Laser Institute offers Receptionist roles with a focus on patient care and administrative tasks. They have locations in major cities, providing diverse work experiences.


  8. Transformations Care Network
    Average Salary: $51,323
    Transformations Care Network provides Receptionist jobs with a focus on patient care and administrative support. They operate in several locations, offering a variety of work environments.


  9. Northwell Health
    Average Salary: $51,095
    Northwell Health offers Receptionist positions with a focus on patient care and administrative tasks. They have locations in multiple states, providing diverse work experiences.


  10. RDC
    Average Salary: $51,000
    RDC provides Receptionist jobs with a focus on administrative support and customer service. They operate in several regions, offering a variety of work environments.

How to earn more as a Receptionist?

A receptionist plays a crucial role in any office. They manage the front desk and ensure smooth operations. Increasing earnings as a receptionist involves several key factors. These factors can help boost your salary and career prospects.

First, gaining additional certifications can enhance your skills. Certifications in office management or customer service can make you more valuable. Second, taking on extra responsibilities can lead to higher pay. This might include managing schedules or coordinating events. Third, improving your computer skills is essential. Proficiency in office software can make you more efficient. Fourth, networking with other professionals can open up new opportunities. Joining industry groups can lead to job offers. Lastly, seeking promotions within your current role can increase your salary. Demonstrating your dedication and hard work can help you advance.

By focusing on these areas, a receptionist can improve their earning potential. Each step taken towards professional growth can lead to better job offers and higher pay.

  1. Gain additional certifications
  2. Take on extra responsibilities
  3. Improve your computer skills
  4. Network with other professionals
  5. Seek promotions within your current role

Currently 9,305 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.
Position
Overview
Receptionist
9,305 Job Openings