Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants Salary 2025: $76,590 Median Pay
The median annual salary for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants is $76,590, according to the latest BLS data. The mean hourly wage is about $37. That's well above the median for all secretarial roles, reflecting the higher-level responsibilities and trust these positions require.
The typical pay range runs from $50,560 at the 10th percentile to $109,850 at the 90th. So while the median is solid, top earners in high-paying industries or locations can pull in six figures. About 459,910 people hold these jobs nationwide.
How much Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants earn
Median annual salary: $76,590. Mean: $79,140. Hourly mean: $37.04.
The bottom 10% earn less than $50,560; the top 10% earn more than $109,850. Where you work — by industry and geography — strongly influences where you fall in that range. The highest-paying sectors include professional services and corporate management, where experienced executive assistants can command salaries above $100,000.
Pay by state
The highest-paying state is the District of Columbia with an average salary of $90,850. It's followed by New Jersey ($89,520), California ($89,000), Massachusetts ($82,650), and Connecticut ($82,520).
At the lower end, Louisiana ($53,240), Wyoming ($52,210), and Arkansas ($51,600) trail the national median significantly. If you're considering relocation, the difference between a low- and high-paying state can be over $35,000 annually.
How to become an Executive Secretary or Executive Administrative Assistant
Most employers require at least a high school diploma, but an associate's or bachelor's degree — especially in business administration or communications — can improve your chances. Many executive assistants start as administrative assistants and work their way up.
Key skills include advanced proficiency in office software (Microsoft Office, scheduling tools), strong written and verbal communication, discretion with sensitive information, and the ability to manage multiple executives' calendars. Certification through organizations like the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) can also be beneficial.
Steps to become one:
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. College coursework in business or office management is a plus.
- Gain experience as an administrative assistant or in a similar clerical role, typically 3-5 years.
- Develop advanced skills in calendar management, travel booking, and communication.
- Earn voluntary certification, such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential.
- Apply for executive assistant roles that support C-suite or senior leadership.
Job outlook
Employment for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants is projected to decline by 1.6% from 2024 to 2034 — a loss of about 7,360 jobs. This shrink is largely due to automation and software tools replacing some scheduling and administrative tasks. However, about 50,000 openings per year will still arise from workers leaving the occupation. Competition for top positions in high-paying industries will remain strong.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for an Executive Secretary or Executive Administrative Assistant?
The national median salary is $76,590 per year, with a mean hourly wage of about $37. The lowest 10% earn below $50,560, and the highest 10% earn over $109,850.
How do I become an Executive Secretary or Executive Administrative Assistant?
Typically you need a high school diploma and several years of administrative experience. An associate's or bachelor's degree in business or a related field helps. Certification like the CAP can boost your candidacy.
What is the job growth for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants?
The BLS projects a 1.6% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, but about 50,000 job openings each year due to workers leaving the field.
Which states pay the most for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants?
The District of Columbia leads at $90,850, followed by New Jersey ($89,520), California ($89,000), Massachusetts ($82,650), and Connecticut ($82,520).
Is an Executive Secretary the same as an Executive Administrative Assistant?
Yes, the BLS groups these two titles together in the same occupation. They both provide high-level administrative support to executives, often handling confidential matters and managing office operations.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants data.