Executive Assistant Salary: How Much Does an Executive Assistant Earn?
An executive assistant provides high-level administrative support to executives and senior leaders within organizations. Their role goes beyond typical administrative tasks, as they often manage schedules, plan events, and handle confidential information. But how much does an executive assistant earn for their specialized skill set?
In this blog, we’ll explore the salary expectations for executive assistants, how their earnings vary by experience and location, and the factors that influence their income.
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What Does an Executive Assistant Do?
Executive assistants are responsible for a variety of tasks that keep executives organized and ensure their day-to-day operations run smoothly. Their duties typically include:
- Managing executive schedules: Coordinating meetings, appointments, and travel arrangements.
- Handling communications: Acting as the point of contact between executives and internal or external stakeholders.
- Preparing reports and presentations: Assisting with creating important documents for executive meetings.
- Managing projects: Supporting the planning and execution of key initiatives within the organization.
- Handling confidential information: Managing sensitive documents and communications with discretion.
Executive assistants often work closely with C-suite executives, including CEOs, CFOs, and COOs, which makes their role crucial to the organization’s overall success.
Average Executive Assistant Salary in 2024
As of 2024, the average salary for an executive assistant in the United States ranges between $60,000 and $85,000 per year, though this can vary depending on experience, location, and the size of the company.
- Entry-level Executive Assistants: Typically earn between $50,000 and $60,000 annually.
- Mid-level Executive Assistants: With 5-10 years of experience, salaries generally range from $65,000 to $80,000.
- Senior Executive Assistants: Those with over 10 years of experience or who work with high-level executives at large corporations can earn upwards of $90,000 or more.
Industry-Specific Executive Assistant Salaries
- Technology: $70,000 - $90,000
- Finance: $75,000 - $100,000
- Healthcare: $65,000 - $85,000
- Legal: $70,000 - $90,000
Location also plays a significant role, with executive assistants in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. earning higher salaries due to the high cost of living and increased demand for top administrative talent.
Factors Influencing Executive Assistant Salaries
Several factors can impact how much an executive assistant earns:
1. Experience
Executive assistants with more experience tend to earn higher salaries, especially those who have worked with senior-level executives or in demanding industries like finance or tech.
2. Industry
Certain industries, such as finance, technology, and law, often pay executive assistants more due to the complexity of the work and the need for specialized knowledge.
3. Location
As with many professions, geography plays a big role in salary determination. Executive assistants in large metropolitan areas, especially major corporate hubs like New York and San Francisco, tend to earn more due to the high demand for skilled support staff and the higher cost of living.
4. Company Size
Executive assistants at large multinational corporations or organizations with a complex executive structure often earn more than those at smaller companies. The demands of supporting top-level executives in a large organization can lead to higher compensation.
5. Additional Skills
Executive assistants with specialized skills, such as proficiency in project management, financial reporting, or event planning, often command higher salaries. Certifications in tools like Microsoft Office or project management software can also boost earning potential.
How Does an Executive Assistant’s Salary Compare?
Executive assistants earn competitive salaries compared to other administrative roles, especially those who work with senior executives. Here’s how their salaries compare to similar roles:
- Executive Assistant: $60,000 - $85,000
- Administrative Assistant: $40,000 - $55,000
- Office Manager: $50,000 - $70,000
- Project Coordinator: $55,000 - $75,000
Executive assistants typically earn more than administrative assistants or office managers due to the specialized and high-level nature of their responsibilities.
Beyond Salary: Why Executive Assistants Should Invest in Their Future
While executive assistants earn competitive salaries, achieving long-term financial security requires smart investing. One of the best ways to build wealth outside of your paycheck is through real estate investing, which provides both monthly income and appreciation over time.
Here’s why real estate investing is a great option for executive assistants:
- Diversified Income Streams: Real estate offers an additional income stream, reducing reliance on salary alone.
- Monthly Income: Rental properties provide monthly income, allowing you to earn money without the need for extra hours or side jobs.
- Appreciation: Over time, real estate values tend to increase, building long-term wealth through property appreciation.
- Tax Benefits: Real estate investments come with valuable tax deductions, such as depreciation and mortgage interest, which can significantly reduce tax liability.
Invest with mogul and Build Your Financial Future
With mogul, executive assistants can invest in professionally managed real estate projects with as little as $250. mogul provides access to diversified real estate portfolios, offering monthly income, property appreciation, and tax benefits—without the need to manage properties yourself.
Founded by former Goldman Sachs executives, mogul offers busy professionals like executive assistants a simple way to grow their wealth through real estate. With the founders having deployed over $10 billion in real estate investments and an average IRR of 18.8%, mogul is the ideal platform for those looking to secure their financial future through real estate.
The Bottom Line
Executive assistants earn competitive salaries, particularly those with experience or who work in specialized industries. However, building long-term wealth requires more than just a paycheck. By investing in real estate, executive assistants can create monthly income streams, diversify their portfolios, and build wealth over time.
Start building your real estate portfolio today with mogul and enjoy the benefits of real estate income and wealth creation, all while continuing to support top executives in your organization.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult with a licensed professional before making any financial or investment decisions.