Los Angeles is more than just the entertainment capital of the world; it's a global hub for advertising, public relations, and marketing. For aspiring professionals, the role of an Assistant Account Executive (AAE) is a classic and powerful launchpad into this dynamic industry. But what can you expect to earn as you take your first step? An entry-level AAE in Los Angeles can anticipate a competitive starting salary, typically ranging from $55,000 to $68,000 annually, with significant potential for growth.
This guide will break down not just the numbers but the critical factors that shape your earning potential, helping you navigate your career journey in the City of Angels with confidence.
What Does an Assistant Account Executive Do?
An Assistant Account Executive is the foundational support of a client services team within an agency (like advertising, PR, or digital marketing) or an in-house marketing department. This is not just an administrative role; it’s a hands-on apprenticeship in the art and science of client management.
As an entry-level AAE, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Supporting Senior Staff: You'll work directly under an Account Executive (AE) or Account Manager, helping them manage the day-to-day needs of client accounts.
- Client Communication: Drafting emails, preparing meeting agendas, and taking detailed notes on client calls.
- Research & Reporting: Conducting industry research, tracking media coverage, and helping to compile performance reports and analytics.
- Coordination: Liaising between the client and internal creative, strategy, or technical teams to ensure projects stay on track.
- Administrative Excellence: Scheduling meetings, managing timelines, and organizing key documents.
Think of the AAE role as the engine room of the account team—it’s where you learn the business from the ground up, build essential skills, and prove your value.
Average Assistant Account Executive Entry-Level Salary in Los Angeles
While salary figures can vary, data from leading authorities provides a clear picture of what an entry-level Assistant Account Executive can expect to earn in the competitive Los Angeles market.
The average base salary for an entry-level Assistant Account Executive in Los Angeles typically falls between $55,000 and $68,000 per year.
Let's look at the specifics from trusted sources:
- Salary.com: As of late 2023, data indicates that the salary range for an Account Executive I (a role comparable to a senior AAE or entry-level AE) in Los Angeles is between $61,501 and $78,088. Entry-level AAE roles would logically fall at the beginning of or just below this range.
- Glassdoor: This platform reports an average base salary of around $60,500 for Assistant Account Executives in the Los Angeles area, with "total pay" (including potential bonuses) often reaching closer to $65,000.
- Payscale: Data from Payscale suggests a similar average, often placing the salary for professionals with less than one year of experience in the $55,000 to $62,000 bracket.
It's important to remember that these figures represent base salary. Many agencies offer performance-based bonuses, commissions, or robust benefits packages that increase your total compensation.
Key Factors That Influence Salary
Your starting salary isn't set in stone. Several key factors can influence where you land within that initial range and how quickly you can advance.
### Level of Education
A Bachelor’s degree is the standard requirement for an AAE position. Degrees in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or Business Administration are most common and highly valued. While a master’s degree may not drastically increase your *starting* AAE salary, it can make you a more competitive candidate and potentially accelerate your path to a higher-paying Account Executive role. More importantly, relevant internships and a strong portfolio of work often carry more weight than advanced degrees at the entry level.
### Years of Experience
For an "entry-level" role (typically defined as 0-2 years of experience), prior internships are the single most significant differentiator. A candidate with two or three relevant internships at reputable agencies will command a higher starting salary than a candidate with none. This practical experience demonstrates a foundational understanding of the industry, a professional work ethic, and a reduced need for initial training, making you a more valuable hire from day one.
### Geographic Location
The mantra "location, location, location" absolutely applies to salary. The average AAE salary in Los Angeles is notably higher than the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median pay for Public Relations Specialists (a closely related profession) was $67,440 per year in 2022. The higher salaries in Los Angeles are a direct reflection of the region's high cost of living and the intense competition among top-tier firms for promising talent.
### Company Type
The type of company you work for plays a massive role in your compensation.
- Large, Global Agencies: Firms like Ogilvy, Edelman, or BBDO generally have structured salary bands and often offer higher starting pay and more comprehensive benefits packages.
- Boutique Firms: Smaller, specialized agencies may offer slightly lower starting base salaries but can provide unparalleled hands-on experience and, in some cases, more flexible bonus structures.
- In-House Corporate Teams: Working as an AAE on the "client side" for a large corporation (e.g., in the tech, entertainment, or CPG sector) can be very lucrative, often with competitive pay and excellent corporate benefits.
### Area of Specialization
The industry your agency or client serves can impact your salary. Niche or highly technical fields often pay a premium. An AAE specializing in high-demand sectors like healthcare PR, financial communications, or B2B technology marketing may find higher starting salaries compared to those in more general consumer or lifestyle sectors. As you build expertise in a lucrative specialty, your value—and your salary—will grow accordingly.
Job Outlook
The future for communications and marketing professionals is bright. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for Public Relations Specialists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by the continuous need for organizations to maintain a positive public image and communicate effectively across a constantly evolving landscape of digital and social media. As an AAE, you are entering a field with sustained demand, ensuring strong prospects for long-term career stability and advancement.
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as an Assistant Account Executive in Los Angeles is a promising and rewarding decision. While you can expect a solid entry-level salary between $55,000 and $68,000, the true value of the role lies in its potential. The skills you build—client management, strategic thinking, and effective communication—are the bedrock of a successful career in marketing, PR, and beyond.
By focusing on gaining relevant internship experience, targeting the right type of company, and understanding the market, you can position yourself for a competitive offer. Remember, your first job is not just a salary; it's an investment in a career path with a high ceiling for both professional and financial growth.