File Clerks: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 78,980 file clerks, and they earn a median of $41,270/year. The range runs from $30K to $61K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level file clerks start around $30K. The gap between that and the median ($41K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $61K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $58K | 180 |
| Oregon | $49K | 950 |
| Rhode Island | $48K | 90 |
| Washington | $47K | 590 |
| California | $47K | 9,740 |
| Massachusetts | $47K | 790 |
| Illinois | $46K | 3,740 |
| Hawaii | $46K | 140 |
| Minnesota | $45K | 730 |
| Iowa | $45K | 430 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a file clerks make?▼
The median file clerks salary in the United States is $41,270 per year ($20/hour). Entry-level positions start around $29,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $61,080.
What education do you need to become a file clerks?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for file clerks?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for file clerks.
What are the highest paying states for file clerks?▼
The highest paying states for file clerks are District of Columbia ($57,560), Oregon ($49,340), Rhode Island ($48,440), Washington ($47,100), California ($46,920). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.