Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 261,430 hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks, and they earn a median of $34,270/year. The range runs from $27K to $45K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks start around $27K. The gap between that and the median ($34K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $45K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $59K | 2,870 |
| District of Columbia | $45K | 1,330 |
| California | $39K | 27,500 |
| Washington | $39K | 5,750 |
| New York | $39K | 10,150 |
| Vermont | $39K | 620 |
| Massachusetts | $38K | 4,050 |
| Nevada | $38K | 5,030 |
| Maine | $38K | 1,690 |
| Rhode Island | $38K | 690 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks make?▼
The median hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks salary in the United States is $34,270 per year ($16/hour). Entry-level positions start around $26,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $44,720.
What education do you need to become a hotel, motel, and resort desk 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 hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks.
What are the highest paying states for hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks?▼
The highest paying states for hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks are Hawaii ($58,740), District of Columbia ($44,640), California ($39,200), Washington ($38,930), New York ($38,870). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.