AI receptionist vs hiring cost

What does it cost small businesses to answer the phone? A hired receptionist next to an AI phone tool, with the sources shown. No email needed.

Receptionist pay per hour ($) From BLS: change it

U.S. median, May 2025: BLS. Pay where you live may be higher or lower.

Hours a week you need the phone covered Example: change it

40 is one full-time person. Nights and weekends would need more hours.

Taxes and benefits on top of pay (%) From BLS: change it

Average for full-time private-sector workers, June 2026: BLS. A small business may pay less (fewer benefits) or more.

Calls a month Example: change it

From your phone’s call log.

Average minutes per call Example: change it

Many AI plans charge by the minute or the call.

Pick a phone tool from our directory (optional)

AI tool price per month ($) Example: change it

Your number, from the maker’s pricing page. Example: $150 is Smith.ai Pro as shown in our listing.