Receptionists and Information Clerks Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Median annual salary $37,790 +1.5% vs national
Median hourly $18.17
10th percentile $30,310
90th percentile $49,240
Employed locally 29,720
National median $37,230

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    In Chicago and its surrounding areas in Illinois and Indiana, receptionists and information clerks earn a median annual salary of $37,790, which is slightly higher than the national median for this occupation at $37,230. When compared to the area's median household income of $88,850, the earnings of typical workers in this role are approximately 42.5% of the local household income. This indicates that while receptionists and information clerks play a vital role within organizations, their compensation is notably lower than the average household income level in the region.

    For entry-level receptionists and information clerks in Chicago, salaries start at around $30,310 annually (10th percentile), reflecting minimal experience or skills beyond basic requirements. In contrast, those with significant experience can earn up to $49,240 annually (90th percentile). The disparity between these earnings is driven by factors such as the size and type of the employing organization, geographic location within the Chicago area, individual performance, additional responsibilities, and specialized skills acquired over time. Experienced workers often handle more complex tasks or occupy supervisory roles, which justifies their higher compensation compared to entry-level positions.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $30,310
    25th
    $34,320
    50th (median)
    $37,790
    75th
    $45,050
    90th
    $49,240

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Receptionists and Information Clerks salary vs area income 43% Median Receptionists and Information Clerks salary is 57% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Receptionists and Information Clerks make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Receptionists and Information Clerks in Chicago, IL-IN is $18.17, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.83 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Receptionists and Information Clerks salaries?

    The median Receptionists and Information Clerks salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 1.5% above the national median of $37,230. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Receptionists and Information Clerks in Chicago?

    Entry-level Receptionists and Information Clerks (10th percentile) earn around $30,310 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $34,320.