Receptionist Salary in San Diego, CA
Receptionists in San Diego, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.35 per hour, equating to around $814.00 per week, $3,527.33 per month, and $42,328.00 per year.
The career outlook for Receptionists in San Diego is positive, with job demand expected to grow by about 5% annually, indicating a healthy market and steady opportunities for those entering this role.
How Much Does a Receptionist Make in San Diego, CA?
The salary for a Receptionist in San Diego can vary based on experience, skills, and employers. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.34 | $693.60 | $3,004.80 | $36,057.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.35 | $814.00 | $3,527.33 | $42,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.90 | $956.00 | $4,134.67 | $49,712.00 |
Do Receptionists in San Diego Earn Tips?
Receptionists generally do not earn tips because their role primarily involves administrative and front desk duties rather than direct service or sales interactions. Their income is typically based on their salary or hourly wage alone.
Receptionist Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Receptionists earn an average of about $17.39 per hour, which amounts to roughly $36,171.20 yearly.
Compared to the national average, Receptionists in San Diego earn higher wages, at around $20.35 per hour and $42,328 annually. This premium reflects San Diego's higher living costs and robust job market for administrative roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Receptionists
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Receptionists, with some locations paying significantly more:
- San Ysidro: $45.00 per hour
- Spring Valley: $43.20 per hour
Receptionists working in San Ysidro and Spring Valley currently enjoy some of the highest wages near San Diego, nearly double the city average, possibly reflecting specialized demands or limited labor supply in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in San Diego?
Several factors impact how much a Receptionist can earn in San Diego:
- Experience: More years on the job typically lead to higher pay as skills improve and efficiency increases.
- Skills: Proficiency in office software, communication, and multitasking raises earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Medical offices, large corporations, and tech firms often pay better than smaller businesses.
- Education and Certifications: Additional training in administrative support or certifications can make candidates more competitive.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts might include pay differentials.
How To Become a Receptionist in San Diego
Launching a career as a Receptionist in San Diego involves a few key steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Institutions like San Diego Continuing Education offer courses in office skills and administrative support, including receptionist training. City College of San Diego provides certificate programs in business office technology, focusing on receptionist and clerical skills.
- Earn Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) demonstrate proficiency and can improve employability.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: Being personable and professional is essential for front desk roles.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level administrative assistant roles or internships can provide valuable on-the-job practice.
Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in San Diego
Major employers in the San Diego area that often recruit Receptionists include:
- Scripps Health
- Sharp HealthCare
- UC San Diego Health
- Qualcomm
- General Atomics
Establishments That Receptionists in San Diego Work At
Receptionists in San Diego find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Medical and Dental Offices: Often offer higher wages due to specialized knowledge requirements and regulated environments.
- Corporate Offices: Larger firms may provide better benefits and higher salaries.
- Hotels and Hospitality: Roles here can vary widely, and tips are generally not included in compensation.
- Educational Institutions: Typically provide stable hours and benefits but may pay moderate wages.
The nature and prestige of the establishment greatly influence salary, benefits, and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Receptionists
If you are considering alternatives or career progression related to Receptionist roles, here are some similar positions to explore:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Backwaiter, and Event Coordinator positions, which share similar skill sets or work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in San Diego
Receptionists should be aware of several important labor and tax resources to ensure their rights and obligations are understood:
- Federal labor laws and employment standards are outlined on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific workplace regulations, the California Department of Industrial Relations is a primary resource.
- Local employment regulations and resources for San Diego can be found on the City of San Diego official website.