Receptionists and Information Clerks Salary 2025: $38,010 Median, Zero Growth
The median annual salary for receptionists and information clerks in the U.S. is $38,010, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to about $18 per hour, with the typical range spanning $28,760 at the 10th percentile to $49,950 at the 90th. With nearly 910,000 people employed in this occupation, it's a common entry-level office role—but the job market is flat: projected growth from 2024 to 2034 is 0%, slower than average, though 128,500 openings per year still arise from turnover.
How much Receptionists and Information Clerks earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a mean annual wage of $39,460 for the role, with half of workers earning between $28,760 and $49,950. Pay depends heavily on industry and location. Top-paying industries include professional services and government, where wages can exceed $45,000. Entry-level positions or those in retail typically fall near the bottom of the range.
Experience and certifications can push earnings higher, but the occupation has a relatively flat pay curve—most workers don't see huge jumps without moving into administrative or executive assistant roles.
- Median: $38,010 | Mean: $39,460 | Hourly mean: ~$18.97
- 10th percentile: $28,760 | 90th percentile: $49,950
- Total employed: 910,180
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state is the District of Columbia, where receptionists earn a mean of $49,060. Alaska ($44,720), Washington ($44,710), California ($44,100), and Massachusetts ($43,870) round out the top five. At the other end, Mississippi pays $31,160 on average, followed by West Virginia ($31,920) and Alabama ($32,590). That's a swing of nearly $18,000 between D.C. and Mississippi.
How to become a Receptionist or Information Clerk
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some prefer an associate's degree, but it's not mandatory. On-the-job training is typical, lasting a few weeks to a month. Key skills include phone etiquette, basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, scheduling software), and strong communication. Certifications like the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) can help but aren't required. Advancement usually leads to administrative assistant, office manager, or customer service supervisor roles, often with additional training.
- Education: High school diploma minimum; associate's degree optional
- Training: Short-term on-the-job (2–4 weeks typical)
- Key skills: Phone systems, scheduling, typing, customer service
- Optional certification: CAP (Certified Administrative Professional)
Job outlook
The BLS projects zero employment growth from 2024 to 2034 for receptionists and information clerks. That's slower than the average for all occupations. Automation—like online scheduling and AI phone systems—is reducing demand. However, around 128,500 openings per year are expected due to people leaving the field or retiring. That means competition for jobs will be steady, especially in metropolitan areas.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a receptionist in 2025?
The average (mean) salary is $39,460 per year, or about $19 per hour. The median is $38,010.
Do I need a degree to become a receptionist?
No. Most jobs require a high school diploma, with on-the-job training provided. An associate's degree can help but isn't required.
Is the demand for receptionists growing?
No. The BLS projects 0% growth from 2024 to 2034, due partly to automation. Still, about 128,500 job openings per year arise from turnover.
Which state pays receptionists the most?
The District of Columbia pays the highest mean wage at $49,060, followed by Alaska ($44,720) and Washington ($44,710).
Can I make over $50,000 as a receptionist?
Yes, the top 10% earn more than $49,950. High-paying industries (e.g., corporate services, government) and costly areas like D.C. or California push salaries above $50,000 for experienced workers.
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 Receptionists and Information Clerks data.