How Much Do Executive Assistants Make in Canada?

Ever wondered how much executive assistants actually make these days? Whether you’re thinking about hiring one (smart move, by the way) or maybe even considering becoming one yourself, understanding the pay landscape is key.

The thing is, salaries for executive assistants aren’t one-size-fits-all. From New York to Toronto, pay varies based on everything from experience to industry — and even whether they’re sitting at a desk in your office or managing your calendar remotely from their home office (possibly in sweatpants).

Let’s break it down — U.S., Canada, and a few things that might surprise you.

What’s the Going Rate for Executive Assistants in the U.S.?

Running a business stateside will determine how much you pay an executive assistant depending on your location and degree of experience required.

Average Salary Snapshot (2025 Estimates)

• Entry-level, 0–2 year: About $45,000 to $55,000 annually

• Usually between $55,000 and $70,000, mid-level (3–5 year)

• Six plus years: Anywhere between $70,000 to $95,000+, particularly in big areas like New York, San Francisco, or Boston.

Location Matters

Just like in real estate, location plays a huge role in salary expectations:

• Big city, big paycheck. EAs in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago can command 15-25% higher salaries than the national average.
• Smaller cities or rural areas? Expect salaries on the lower end of the range — somewhere between $40,000 to $60,000.

Industry Influence

The type of company matters too:

• Tech startups might pay a premium for EAs who can juggle projects, investors, and events all at once.

• Legal and finance firms tend to offer top-tier salaries, especially if the assistant is handling sensitive client data or complex reporting.
• Nonprofits and smaller businesses often pay less — but might offer more flexibility (a trade-off many EAs happily take).

How Do Executive Assistant Salaries Compare in Canada?

Heading north of the border, things shift a little — but the trends still hold up.

Average Salary Snapshot (2025 Estimates)

Entry level: Between CAD 45,000 and CAD 55,000 annually.

• middle level: Usually CAD falls between $55,000 and $68,000.
• Senior-level: Experienced EAs (especially in executive-heavy roles) can earn anywhere from CAD $70,000 to $90,000+, particularly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.

Regional Variations

Just like in the U.S., where you’re hiring (or working) matters a lot:

• Toronto & Vancouver: Higher pay, often matching or exceeding $80,000 for top-tier EAs.
• Mid-sized cities (Ottawa, Winnipeg): Salaries tend to range from $55,000 to $70,000.
• Rural or smaller towns: Expect numbers closer to $45,000.

Remote Work’s Impact

Here’s something to think about — the rise of remote work means many Canadian executive assistants now work for companies across provinces (or even across the border). That flexibility means some EAs in lower-cost areas can land higher-paying roles with companies based in major metros.

Experience Pays — But Skills Seal the Deal

It’s not just years on the job that drive salary — it’s what you can do.

These days, being a rockstar executive assistant means:

Mastering digital tools

Think calendar wrangling, project management software, even light CRM work.

Staying two steps ahead

Anticipating needs before the boss even asks.

Handling sensitive info with grace

Especially in industries like finance, legal, or healthcare.

The more you bring to the table, the higher your earning potential.

Virtual vs. In-House Executive Assistants: What’s the Difference in Pay?

Here’s where things get really interesting — virtual executive assistants (VEAs) are shaking up the market.

In-House EAs

• Full-time salaries + benefits (health insurance, 401k contributions, paid time off)
• Office-based (though hybrid work is still common)
• Annual cost (including benefits): Easily $75,000 to $100,000+ for experienced hires in large cities

Virtual Executive Assistants (VEAs)

• Typically contract or freelance
• Hourly rates range from $35 to $60 per hour for skilled U.S.-based Vas
• No benefits costs for employers
• Flexibility to scale hours up or down as needed

For businesses that don’t need 40 hours a week of support, hiring a virtual EA can cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Is It Worth Paying Top Dollar for an Executive Assistant?

You might be wondering — can’t I just hire a junior admin and save some cash?

Sure, you could. But here’s the thing — a high-quality executive assistant isn’t just another admin. They’re your second brain, your right hand, the person who makes sure:

• You never miss an important meeting.
• Your inbox doesn’t become a black hole.
• Your day runs smoother than a freshly brewed espresso.
  

When you find the right EA — whether they’re down the hall or working from another country — they pay for themselves in time saved, stress avoided, and opportunities captured.

Final Takeaway

Whether you’re hiring in New York, Toronto, or anywhere in between, the salary you offer depends on experience, location, and the level of support you need. Want top-tier support without the full-time price tag? That’s where virtual executive assistants come in — offering flexible, skilled support without the overhead.

At Encox Services Inc., we connect busy entrepreneurs and growing businesses with experienced virtual executive assistants who know how to keep you organized, efficient, and stress-free — without breaking the bank. Let’s talk about how the right assistant (at the right price) can transform the way you work. Contact us on +1 306-910-8152 to get started.