Administrative Assistant Salary in California
Based on 159K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$55,400
$26.63/hr
vs National Average
$47,012
+17.8% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $78K
159K employed in California
The median Administrative Assistant salary in California is $55,400 per year, which translates to approximately $27 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national average, indicating a strong demand for administrative support professionals across the Golden State.
Several factors influence the Administrative Assistant salary in California. Experience level is a primary driver, with more seasoned professionals commanding higher pay. Location within California also plays a significant role, as do the size and industry of the employer, and the specific responsibilities of the role.
Salary Distribution — Administrative Assistant in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,060 |
| 25th percentile | $46,390 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $55,400 |
| 75th percentile | $65,400 |
| 90th percentile | $78,170 |
Top-Paying Industries for Administrative Assistant (U.S.)
Which industries pay Administrative Assistants the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Administrative Assistants in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $59,950 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $52,990 | 33K |
| Finance and Insurance | $49,850 | 85K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $49,730 | 182K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $49,040 | 188K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Administrative Assistant in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $55,400 |
| 2026 (projected) | $57,062 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $55,400 | $47,012 |
| 2026 (projected) | $57,062 | $48,422 |
Administrative Assistant Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $46,390 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $55,400 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $65,400 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $78,170 |
Administrative Assistant Salary in Other States
Related Administrative Assistant Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Administrative Assistant ($55,400 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Administrative Assistant | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper in CA | $59,230 | +6.9% | $28.48/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in CA | $49,560 | -10.5% | $23.83/hr |
| Receptionist in CA | $44,100 | -20.4% | $21.20/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in CA | $55,110 | -0.5% | $26.50/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in CA | $57,000 | +2.9% | $27.40/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in CA | $57,560 | +3.9% | $27.67/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in CA | $59,250 | +6.9% | $28.49/hr |
| Truck Driver in CA | $60,230 | +8.7% | $28.96/hr |
| Construction Laborer in CA | $60,270 | +8.8% | $28.98/hr |
| Dental Assistant in CA | $50,110 | -9.5% | $24.09/hr |
| Medical Assistant in CA | $49,660 | -10.4% | $23.88/hr |
| Tutor in CA | $49,570 | -10.5% | $23.83/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Administrative Assistant salary in California?
- The median Administrative Assistant salary in California is $55,400 annually, or about $27 per hour. This means half of Administrative Assistants in the state earn more than this, and half earn less.
What is the salary range for an Administrative Assistant in California?
- The salary range for Administrative Assistants in California typically falls between $38,060 on the lower end and $78,170 on the higher end. This wide range reflects variations in experience, location, and employer.
How does the Administrative Assistant salary in California compare to the national average?
- Administrative Assistants in California earn significantly more than the national average, with salaries being 17.8% higher. This suggests a more competitive job market and potentially higher cost of living in California.
How many Administrative Assistants are employed in California?
- There are a substantial number of Administrative Assistants employed in California, with a total of 158,630 individuals in this role. This indicates a robust job market for administrative support.