Human Resources Assistants (Except Payroll) Salary 2025: $50,610 Median
Human Resources Assistants (except payroll and timekeeping) earn a median salary of $50,610 per year, or about $24 per hour, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The typical range runs from $37,340 at the 10th percentile to $68,280 at the 90th. With 90,220 jobs nationwide and a projected decline of 7.1 percent from 2024 to 2034, this is a stable but shrinking occupation — though roughly 9,000 openings still appear each year due to turnover.
How much Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping earn
The median annual wage for HR assistants (excluding payroll and timekeeping) is $50,610. The mean wage is slightly higher at $52,250. Most earn between $37,340 (10th percentile) and $68,280 (90th percentile). Experience, employer size, and location drive the differences.
The highest-paid HR assistants work in the District of Columbia ($59,050), California ($57,590), Washington ($57,390), Maryland ($56,880), and Alaska ($56,510). On the lower end, Mississippi ($44,780), West Virginia ($42,990), and Alabama ($42,140) trail the national median.
- National median: $50,610
- 10th percentile: $37,340
- 90th percentile: $68,280
Pay by state
Where you work matters significantly. The District of Columbia tops the list at $59,050, nearly $8,500 above the national median. In California, HR assistants average $57,590, followed by Washington ($57,390), Maryland ($56,880), and Alaska ($56,510).
At the other end, Alabama pays a median of $42,140 — $8,470 below the national median. West Virginia ($42,990) and Mississippi ($44,780) also fall well short of the national figure.
- Highest: DC ($59,050), CA ($57,590), WA ($57,390), MD ($56,880), AK ($56,510)
- Lowest: AL ($42,140), WV ($42,990), MS ($44,780)
How to become Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
Most HR assistants have at least a high school diploma, but many employers prefer some college coursework or an associate degree in human resources, business, or a related field. A bachelor’s degree can help with advancement but is rarely required for entry.
On-the-job training is typical — new hires learn company policies, HR software, and procedures under supervision. Certification isn’t mandatory, but earning the HR Certification Institute’s aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) can improve job prospects.
- Education: High school diploma minimum; associate degree common.
- Training: On-the-job training lasting a few months.
- Certification: aPHR voluntary but beneficial.
- Skills: Attention to detail, confidentiality, communication, Microsoft Office.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for HR assistants (except payroll) will decline 7.1 percent from 2024 to 2034, losing about 6,400 jobs over the decade. Automation of routine tasks like recordkeeping and self-service portals for employees are the main reasons.
Despite the decline, roughly 9,000 openings are expected each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or move to other roles. Best opportunities may be in industries like healthcare or government, where HR software adoption lags.
- Projected decline: -7.1% (2024-2034)
- Annual openings: ~9,000
- Primary cause: Automation and employee self-service systems.
Frequently asked questions
What does an HR assistant (except payroll) do?
They handle administrative tasks like maintaining employee records, answering HR-related questions, processing paperwork, scheduling interviews, and supporting recruiters. Unlike payroll clerks, they don’t manage payroll or timekeeping.
Is HR assistant a good career?
It offers a stable median salary of $50,610 and a clear entry path, but the occupation is shrinking due to automation. It can be a stepping stone to roles like HR specialist or generalist if you pursue further education or certification.
How long does it take to become an HR assistant?
Most positions require only a high school diploma and a few months of on-the-job training. If you want an associate degree, that takes about two years. Certification like aPHR requires some study but no set timeline.
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 Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping data.