How Much Does an AI Receptionist Cost?

The cost comparison breaks down like this: a human receptionist at 20 hours per week, minimum wage, costs roughly $1,600–$2,200 per month in wages alone, before payroll taxes, benefits, or management overhead. They're available during business hours only. A full-time receptionist runs $3,500–$5,000 per month and still doesn't answer calls at 10pm.

Virtual receptionist services (Ruby, Smith.ai, PATLive) charge per minute of call time plus a monthly base. For a business receiving 150 calls per month at an average of 3 minutes each, total cost runs $600–$1,200 per month. Quality depends on which agent answers. Consistency is variable. The AI is the same every call.

The honest answer about when AI isn't the right choice: if your calls primarily involve complex consultations that require deep product knowledge, nuanced problem-solving, or relationship-based sales — fields like bespoke legal work or high-end custom builds — a human receptionist adds value AI can't replicate. For intake, qualification, and booking for standard service work, AI is both cheaper and more consistent.