Receptionist Salary in Seattle, WA
Receptionists in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.32 per hour, which translates to about $892.80 per week, $3,868.80 per month, and $46,425.60 per year.
The outlook for Receptionist jobs in Seattle is currently experiencing a slight decline of about 1% per year. This indicates a modest decrease in demand for these roles in the area.
How Much Does a Receptionist Make in Seattle, WA?
The pay for a Receptionist in Seattle, WA varies depending on experience level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different stages of a Receptionist's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.32 | $892.80 | $3,868.80 | $46,425.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.47 | $1,058.80 | $4,575.47 | $54,985.60 |
Do Receptionists in Seattle Earn Tips?
Receptionists generally do not earn tips as their roles are centered on administrative duties and customer service rather than direct sales or service activities that involve gratuities.
Receptionist Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Receptionists earn an average of around $17.90 per hour and approximately $37,232 per year.
Compared to the national average, Receptionists in Seattle earn significantly more, with hourly wages around $22.32 and yearly earnings about $46,425.60. This difference reflects Seattle's higher cost of living and stronger market demand for skilled administrative support.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Receptionists
Nearby cities that offer higher pay for Receptionists include:
- Redmond: $46.44 per hour
- Bellevue: $45.59 per hour
Receptionists working in Redmond or Bellevue can expect significantly higher wages than those in Seattle itself, making these attractive locations for job seekers willing to commute.
What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors impact how much a Receptionist can earn in Seattle:
- Experience and Tenure: Receptionists with more years of experience typically command higher salaries due to developed skills.
- Skillset and Certifications: Proficiency in office software, communication skills, and certifications like Microsoft Office Specialist can enhance pay.
- Type of Industry or Employer: Working in tech companies or corporate offices often yields better compensation compared to smaller businesses.
- Location Within the Metro Area: Proximity to downtown Seattle or to high-paying suburbs like Bellevue usually correlates with salary.
- Additional Responsibilities: Receptionists who take on extra duties such as scheduling, event coordination, or bookkeeping may see higher wages.
How To Become a Receptionist in Seattle
Pursuing a career as a Receptionist in Seattle involves a combination of education, training, and skill development:
- Consider enrolling in programs such as Seattle Central College's Office Administration Program, which offers courses on office procedures, computer applications, and customer service skills essential for administrative roles.
- North Seattle College's Administrative Assistant Certificate provides focused training in scheduling, communication, and office management skills valued in receptionist positions.
- Obtaining certifications like the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) or Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) can validate your proficiency and improve job prospects.
- Develop strong interpersonal and organizational skills to excel in daily receptionist duties and client interactions.
Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in Seattle
Receptionists in Seattle often find opportunities at major companies and large organizations. Some of the top employers include:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
Establishments That Receptionists in Seattle Work At
Receptionists in Seattle typically work across a variety of settings, including:
- Corporate Offices and Tech Firms: These usually offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits due to company size and revenue.
- Healthcare Facilities and Clinics: Receptionists here may have specialized duties like patient scheduling that impact pay.
- Educational Institutions: Positions may offer stable work environments with modest pay but good benefits.
- Government and Non-Profit Organizations: These can differ in wages but often provide job security and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary levels, with corporate and tech environments typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Receptionists
If you are considering roles related to Receptionist positions, here are some similar careers to explore:
These include roles like Concierge, Restaurant Manager, and Event Coordinator, which share customer service and organizational skills with Receptionist positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in Seattle
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax requirements is important for Receptionists working in Seattle.
- You can review Washington State labor regulations and employment resources on the Washington State Employment Security Department's official site.
- For federal labor statistics and employment guidelines, the Bureau of Labor Statistics website provides valuable data.