News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 41,550 news analysts, reporters, and journalists, and they earn a median of $60,280/year. The range runs from $35K to $162K. New York pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level news analysts, reporters, and journalists start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($60K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $162K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $104K | 5,220 |
| District of Columbia | $103K | 2,060 |
| California | $85K | 4,530 |
| Georgia | $76K | 1,370 |
| Virginia | $63K | 1,380 |
| Delaware | $62K | 40 |
| Connecticut | $62K | 310 |
| Nevada | $61K | 310 |
| Maryland | $61K | 730 |
| New Jersey | $60K | 660 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a news analysts, reporters, and journalists make?▼
The median news analysts, reporters, and journalists salary in the United States is $60,280 per year ($29/hour). Entry-level positions start around $34,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $162,430.
What education do you need to become a news analysts, reporters, and journalists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for news analysts, reporters, and journalists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for news analysts, reporters, and journalists.
What are the highest paying states for news analysts, reporters, and journalists?▼
The highest paying states for news analysts, reporters, and journalists are New York ($103,810), District of Columbia ($103,350), California ($84,830), Georgia ($76,440), Virginia ($63,360). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.