Receptionist Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Receptionists in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.03 per hour, which translates to about $841.20 per week, $3,645.20 per month, and $43,742.40 per year.
The job outlook for Receptionists in Santa Monica is positive, with employment expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled administrative support in various industries.
How Much Does a Receptionist Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Receptionist in Santa Monica varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of wages at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.81 | $712.40 | $3,081.47 | $37,797.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.03 | $841.20 | $3,645.20 | $43,742.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.20 | $1,048.00 | $4,532.27 | $54,496.00 |
Do Receptionists in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Receptionists typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily administrative and customer service based, without direct involvement in tipping practices common in food service or hospitality positions.
Receptionist Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Receptionists earn around $17.53 per hour, which is approximately $36,462.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Receptionists in Santa Monica earn more, with a median hourly wage of $21.03 and an annual salary of about $43,742.40, reflecting the higher cost of living and labor market conditions in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Receptionists
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Receptionists:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $22.00 per hour
- Ocean Park: $21.50 per hour
Receptionists working in Downtown Santa Monica tend to earn slightly higher pay compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several factors affect the salary of a Receptionist in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Receptionists with advanced clerical and communication skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in corporate offices, hotels, or high-end medical practices can offer better compensation compared to small businesses or non-profits.
- Certifications and Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in office software and having relevant certifications can boost salaries.
- Work Hours and Shift: Some roles with evening or weekend shifts may pay more.
- Local Cost of Living: Santa Monica’s higher living costs contribute to elevated wages relative to national averages.
How To Become a Receptionist in Santa Monica
To pursue a career as a Receptionist in Santa Monica, consider the following steps:
- Education and Training Programs: Enroll in relevant courses, such as the Santa Monica College - Office Administration Program, which offers classes on office management, computer skills, and communication tailored for administrative roles.
- Professional Certificates: Credentials like the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification help validate skills and improve employability.
- Business and Management Knowledge: Programs like the UCLA Extension - Business and Management Certificate provide valuable training in organization and communication applicable to receptionist roles.
- Develop Strong Soft Skills: Effective interpersonal, multitasking, and customer service skills are essential.
Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in Santa Monica
Popular employers seeking Receptionists in Santa Monica include:
- The Lobster
- Tar & Roses
- FIG Restaurant
- Cassia
- Shutters on the Beach
Establishments That Receptionists in Santa Monica Work At
Receptionists in Santa Monica typically find employment in various settings such as:
- Corporate Offices: These usually offer stable pay and structured work environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Including luxury destinations like Shutters on the Beach, often providing higher wages and benefits.
- Restaurants and Hospitality Venues: Places like The Lobster or Tar & Roses may require receptionist services with customer interaction and varied duties.
- Medical and Legal Offices: Demand thorough administrative support, often reflected in wage differences.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary levels, with larger or upscale organizations generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Receptionists
If you are interested in roles related to Receptionist positions, consider these similar careers that involve administrative and customer service skills:
These include Hostess, Concierge, and Event Coordinator positions, all of which involve significant guest interaction and administrative responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in Santa Monica
Receptionists should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work. Useful resources include:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor for information on federal labor laws and regulations.
- For California-specific workplace standards and laws, the California Department of Industrial Relations is a key resource.
- The City of Santa Monica Official Website provides local employment resources and relevant regulations.