Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive Salary in Western North Carolina

In Western North Carolina, secretaries and administrative assistants, except those in legal, medical, or executive roles, earn a median annual salary of $40,710, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $19.57. This figure is notably lower than the national median for the same occupation, which stands at $46,290 annually. Comparatively, this local income level positions these workers below the median household income in Western North Carolina, which was recorded at around $56,000 as per recent data. Despite earning less on average compared to their counterparts across the nation, these professionals contribute significantly to the regional economy with an estimated 3,020 individuals employed within this field.

Salaries for secretaries and administrative assistants in Western North Carolina vary considerably based on experience levels. Entry-level workers often earn near the lower end of the salary spectrum, typically around $30,460 annually, which corresponds to the 10th percentile mark. As professionals gain experience, their earnings tend to increase substantially; those at the median level earn approximately $40,710 per year. In contrast, individuals in the 75th percentile can expect to make about $46,790, while top earners at the 90th percentile may receive up to $53,640 annually. The disparity between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as job complexity, skill proficiency, organizational responsibilities, and tenure within the field. These elements collectively contribute to the upward trajectory in earning potential for seasoned professionals compared to those just beginning their careers.