Receptionist Salary in Lafayette, LA
Receptionists in Lafayette, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.88 per hour, which translates to about $515.20 per week, $2,232.53 per month, and $26,790.40 per year.
The demand for Receptionists in Lafayette is slightly declining by about 1% per year, indicating a shrinking job market for this position in the region at this time.
How Much Does a Receptionist Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of a Receptionist in Lafayette varies depending on experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels to help you understand this profession's pay scale.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.81 | $432.40 | $1,873.87 | $22,496.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.88 | $515.20 | $2,232.53 | $26,790.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.34 | $613.60 | $2,657.07 | $31,867.20 |
Do Receptionists in Lafayette Earn Tips?
Receptionists typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on administrative duties and greeting clients rather than providing services directly rewarded by customers.
Receptionist Salary in Lafayette vs. National Average
Nationally, Receptionists earn an average of about $17.90 per hour, equating to roughly $37,232 annually.
Compared to the national average, Receptionists in Lafayette earn considerably less, with an average hourly wage of $12.88 and annual pay near $26,790. This difference may reflect regional economic factors and cost of living disparities.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Receptionists
Nearby areas that offer higher pay rates for Receptionists include:
- Downtown Lafayette: $13.50 per hour
- River Ranch: $14.00 per hour
Receptionists working in River Ranch generally earn more than those in Downtown Lafayette, providing incentive for commuting or relocating within the metropolitan region.
What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several factors affect Receptionist salaries in Lafayette:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Receptionists with advanced skills such as multitasking, customer service, or computer proficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working for corporate offices, medical facilities, or law firms often pays more than small businesses or retail environments.
- Education and Certifications: Relevant certificates or training in office administration or communication can boost pay prospects.
- Work Schedule: Shifts that require evenings or weekends might include differential pay increases.
How To Become a Receptionist in Lafayette
To start a career as a Receptionist in Lafayette, consider these steps:
- Complete relevant education programs like the Administrative Assistant Program at South Louisiana Community College, which trains in office procedures and communication skills.
- Obtain credentials such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certification to validate your expertise in administrative duties.
- Develop proficiency in software tools with certifications like Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), beneficial for document handling and scheduling tasks.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level office jobs to build customer service and organizational skills.
- Pursue additional education such as the Office Administration Certificate at University of Louisiana at Lafayette to advance your administrative knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in Lafayette
Some of the prominent employers frequently looking for qualified Receptionists in Lafayette include:
- Louisiana CAT
- Hub International
- Cardiovascular Institute of the South
- Animal Care Hospital
- PetVet Care Centers
Establishments That Receptionists in Lafayette Work At
Receptionists find employment in a wide range of establishments, including:
- Medical offices: Often offer higher salaries due to the professional environment and required specialized knowledge.
- Corporate offices: Competitive pay with benefits, depending on company size and industry.
- Small businesses: Typically offer lower wages but may provide more flexible schedules.
- Veterinary clinics: Niche settings that may vary in pay depending on clinic size and location.
The type of establishment directly impacts the earning potential and work environment for Receptionists.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette for Receptionists
If you're considering jobs related to being a Receptionist, here are a few similar positions to explore:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Receptionist, and Backwaiter roles, which share similar skills and responsibilities related to customer interaction and administrative support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in Lafayette
Receptionists should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- Check state employment laws on the Louisiana Workforce Commission's website for regulations specific to Louisiana workers.
- For federal labor standards and guidance, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official site.