Receptionist Salary in Madison, WI
Receptionists in Madison, WI, in 2026, typically earn around $17.21 per hour, which translates to about $688.40 per week, $2,983.07 per month, and $35,796.80 per year.
The job market for Receptionists in Madison is looking positive, with a steady growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled individuals in this field.
How Much Does a Receptionist Make in Madison, WI?
The earnings of a Receptionist in Madison depend on experience and responsibilities. Here's a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.82 | $432.80 | $1,872.53 | $22,521.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.21 | $688.40 | $2,983.07 | $35,796.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.36 | $1,094.40 | $4,727.20 | $56,908.80 |
Do Receptionists in Madison Earn Tips?
Receptionists generally do not earn tips as their duties focus on administrative and front desk tasks rather than direct sales or service transactions involving gratuities.
Receptionist Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Receptionists earn an average hourly wage of about $17.21 and a yearly salary of $35,796.80.
The salary of Receptionists in Madison matches this national average closely, reflecting consistency in pay rates for this role across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Receptionists
Some nearby neighborhoods offer slightly higher pay for Receptionists:
- Downtown Madison: $18.50 per hour
- West Side: $17.80 per hour
Receptionists working in Downtown Madison can typically expect to earn more compared to other surrounding areas due to the concentration of businesses and higher operational budgets.
What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors impact how much a Receptionist can earn in Madison:
- Experience: More experienced Receptionists tend to earn higher wages due to their proven skills and knowledge.
- Skills: Proficiency in office software, communication, and multitasking can boost salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Receptionists at larger or higher-profile organizations may receive better compensation than those in small offices.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings or weekends might come with additional pay.
- Location: Working in more central or busy districts like Downtown Madison can offer better pay opportunities.
How To Become a Receptionist in Madison
To become a Receptionist in Madison, consider the following steps and educational resources:
- Complete relevant training programs: Enroll in programs such as the Madison Area Technical College - Administrative Professional Program which focuses on office management and customer service skills.
- Enhance communication abilities: The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Business Communication Certificate targeting key front office skills.
- Obtain certifications: Certifications like Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) demonstrate expertise preferred by employers.
- Develop computer proficiency: Master common office software, especially Microsoft Office.
- Gain experience: Seek internships, volunteer roles, or entry-level admin positions to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in Madison
Some of the major employers looking for Receptionists in Madison include:
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- American Family Insurance
- Epic Systems
- UW Health
- CUNA Mutual Group
Establishments That Receptionists in Madison Work At
Receptionists typically work in a variety of settings across Madison:
- Corporate offices: Larger companies often pay more and require professional receptionist skills.
- Medical facilities and hospitals: Roles here might include more responsibility and potentially higher salaries.
- Educational institutions: Schools and universities employ receptionists to manage front desk duties.
- Hotels and hospitality: Receptionists at hotels may work shifts and receive benefits related to the hospitality sector.
- Government buildings: These roles tend to be stable with structured pay scales.
The type of establishment significantly influences the hourly wage and benefits a Receptionist might earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Receptionists
If you are interested in careers related to Receptionist roles, consider exploring similar jobs that involve customer interaction and administrative duties.
These include Concierge, Receptionist, and Event Coordinator positions, all of which involve strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in Madison
Receptionists must be familiar with both state and federal labor regulations and tax responsibilities. Useful resources include:
- On the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, you’ll find information on employment laws and worker rights.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides details on federal tax filing requirements.
- The City of Madison Official Website offers local labor ordinances and service regulations.