Broadcast Journalist Salary
by City (2026)
Report news for television and radio broadcasts including live field reporting. National median: $55K/year. See how your city compares.
Broadcast Journalist salary by city
Sorted by median salaryCOL-adjusted: where does your salary go furthest?
A $55K Broadcast Journalist salary in Houston (COL 91, no tax) has significantly more purchasing power than the same salary in San Francisco (COL 224, 9.3% state tax). Use our calculator to see the real numbers.
Try COL Calculator βBroadcast Journalist Salary Guide (2026)
The national median salary for a Broadcast Journalist is $55,000 per year. Entry-level positions typically start at $38,000, while experienced professionals in the top 25% earn $82,000 or more. The highest-paid 10% of Broadcast Journalists nationally earn $128,000+.
Education and requirements
Bachelor's in Journalism or Broadcasting; on-air experience. This role is 20% remote-eligible nationally, which significantly expands the geographic job market for workers in lower cost-of-living cities.
Salary growth outlook
Broadcast Journalist compensation is growing at -1% annually, near the national average wage growth rate.
Broadcast Journalist salary FAQ
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make?
The median Broadcast Journalist salary in the US is $55,000 per year β about $26/hour. Most earn between $38,000 (25th percentile) and $82,000 (75th percentile).
What is the starting salary for a Broadcast Journalist?
Entry-level Broadcast Journalist positions typically start around $38,000 per year. Pay rises with experience, specialization, and location.
How much do the highest-paid Broadcast Journalists earn?
The top 10% of Broadcast Journalists earn $128,000 or more per year β usually senior, lead, or specialized professionals in high-cost or high-demand markets.
Which city pays Broadcast Journalists the most?
San Francisco has the highest median Broadcast Journalist salary at $83K among the cities we track. But high-cost metros like San Francisco and New York often have lower real purchasing power once cost of living and taxes are factored in.
Are Broadcast Journalist salaries going up?
Yes β Broadcast Journalist pay is growing about -1% year over year, near the US average wage-growth rate.