How much does a Secretary make?
Secretaries play a crucial role in many workplaces. They handle a wide range of tasks, from managing schedules to organizing files. The average yearly salary for a secretary is around $48,348. This means that secretaries can earn a good living while performing important work.
The salary for secretaries can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn more. Secretaries in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may also earn more. Here are some common salary ranges for secretaries:
- 10% earn less than $28,000
- 25% earn between $28,000 and $39,813
- 50% earn between $39,813 and $57,533
- 75% earn between $57,533 and $69,347
- 90% earn less than $87,067
What are the highest paying cities for a Secretary?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $87,067
In San Francisco, administrative roles thrive in tech hubs and finance firms. Companies like Salesforce and Google offer dynamic environments. Professionals manage schedules, communications, and office tasks efficiently.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $76,574
Allentown provides a mix of industries for administrative professionals. Companies like Air Products and Chemicals focus on innovation. Secretaries handle a variety of tasks, from office management to customer service.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,556
Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities in entertainment and media. Working for firms like Disney, secretaries play a key role in coordinating events and managing communications. The city's vibrant culture adds to the work experience.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $74,607
In Washington, DC, administrative roles are crucial in government and non-profits. Secretaries support lawmakers and policy makers. Working for organizations like the World Bank, professionals handle sensitive information and logistics.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $73,373
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, offers exciting opportunities in tech. Companies like Intel and Cisco need skilled administrators. Secretaries manage projects, communications, and office operations in fast-paced environments.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $69,795
Seattle provides a mix of tech and aerospace industries. Working for companies like Amazon and Boeing, secretaries handle a variety of tasks. The city's tech-savvy culture enhances the work experience.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,651
San Diego offers a blend of biotech and military industries. Secretaries work for companies like Illumina and Navy Federal Credit Union. They manage office tasks, communications, and support teams effectively.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $67,376
Sacramento provides opportunities in government and education. Secretaries support state agencies and schools. Working in this city means handling administrative tasks with a focus on public service.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $66,906
Denver offers a mix of energy and tech industries. Secretaries work for companies like Xcel Energy and Oracle. They handle office tasks, communications, and support teams in a dynamic environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $62,856
Santa Rosa provides opportunities in wine country and tech. Secretaries work for companies like Charles Schwab and Sonoma Technology. They handle a variety of tasks, from office management to customer support.
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What are the best companies a Secretary can work for?

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Allentown School District
Average Salary: $146,214
Allentown School District offers competitive salaries for Secretary positions. These roles are vital in supporting administrative tasks in various schools across the district. The district operates in Allentown, Pennsylvania, providing a range of educational services.
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Legal Ease LLC
Average Salary: $98,643
Legal Ease LLC provides a rewarding environment for Secretaries. They support legal teams in managing documents and schedules. The company operates in major cities, including New York and Los Angeles.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $94,695
The State of Washington offers attractive salaries for Secretary jobs. These positions involve administrative support in various state offices. The state operates across multiple locations, including Seattle and Olympia.
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Baker McKenzie
Average Salary: $94,192
Baker McKenzie provides a dynamic environment for Secretaries. They assist in managing legal documents and schedules. The company has offices in major cities, such as Chicago and London.
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MORRISON & FOERSTER
Average Salary: $92,975
MORRISON & FOERSTER offers competitive pay for Secretary roles. These positions involve supporting legal teams with administrative tasks. The company operates in cities like San Francisco and New York.
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Binding Minds
Average Salary: $90,046
Binding Minds provides a supportive environment for Secretaries. They assist in managing documents and schedules. The company operates in major cities, including San Francisco and Boston.
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Seyfarth
Average Salary: $89,923
Seyfarth offers competitive salaries for Secretary positions. These roles involve supporting legal teams with administrative tasks. The company operates in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $89,667
CyberCoders provides a dynamic environment for Secretaries. They assist in managing documents and schedules. The company operates in major cities, including Atlanta and San Francisco.
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Atkinson Andelson Loya Ruud & Romo
Average Salary: $88,357
Atkinson Andelson Loya Ruud & Romo offers competitive pay for Secretary roles. These positions involve supporting legal teams with administrative tasks. The company operates in cities like Los Angeles and San Diego.
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Fisher & Phillips LLP
Average Salary: $88,105
Fisher & Phillips LLP provides a supportive environment for Secretaries. They assist in managing documents and schedules. The company operates in major cities, including Los Angeles and San Francisco.
How to earn more as a Secretary?
A secretary's role is vital in any organization. It involves managing schedules, handling communications, and supporting executives. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors. Improving skills can lead to higher pay. Secretaries who master advanced software and learn new skills often see better job offers. Certifications in office management or specialized software can make a big difference.
Experience matters. Secretaries with more years in the field often earn more. Taking on additional responsibilities can also lead to higher pay. Secretaries who manage projects or handle complex tasks can earn more. Networking within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional groups can help. Secretaries who build strong relationships with colleagues and clients often find better-paying jobs. Seeking promotions within a company can also increase earnings. Each step up can bring a higher salary.
Consider these factors to increase earnings as a secretary. Improving skills, gaining experience, and networking can lead to higher pay. Secretaries who invest in their professional growth often find better opportunities.
- Improve skills with advanced software and certifications.
- Gain experience by taking on more responsibilities.
- Network within the industry to find higher-paying jobs.
- Seek promotions within the company for higher pay.
- Invest in professional development to increase earnings.