Office Clerks, General: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 2,510,550 office clerks, generals, and they earn a median of $43,630/year. The range runs from $29K to $64K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level office clerks, generals start around $29K. The gap between that and the median ($44K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $64K, 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 | $53K | 6,340 |
| Alaska | $51K | 4,090 |
| Washington | $50K | 48,360 |
| North Dakota | $49K | 8,950 |
| Massachusetts | $49K | 50,180 |
| New Hampshire | $49K | 13,710 |
| Oregon | $48K | 28,240 |
| New Jersey | $48K | 71,140 |
| California | $48K | 306,000 |
| Vermont | $47K | 5,120 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a office clerks, general make?▼
The median office clerks, general salary in the United States is $43,630 per year ($21/hour). Entry-level positions start around $29,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $63,840.
What education do you need to become a office clerks, general?▼
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 office clerks, generals?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for office clerks, generals.
What are the highest paying states for office clerks, generals?▼
The highest paying states for office clerks, generals are District of Columbia ($53,110), Alaska ($51,400), Washington ($49,920), North Dakota ($48,900), Massachusetts ($48,890). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.