How to Become a News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists in California
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists in California earn a median salary of $84,830/year, which is 41% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a news analysts, reporters, and journalists takes home approximately $3,924/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a news analysts, reporters, and journalists can afford in California
Becoming a news analysts, reporters, and journalists in California
Meet education requirements
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many news analysts, reporters, and journalists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for news analysts, reporters, and journalistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 4,530 news analysts, reporters, and journalists. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $102K | $49.15/hr | 1,180 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $90K | $43.09/hr | 1,930 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $75K | $35.97/hr | 230 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $74K | $35.72/hr | 140 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $66K | $31.55/hr | 200 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $63K | $30.1/hr | 90 |
| Salinas | $59K | $28.18/hr | 40 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $54K | $25.81/hr | 40 |
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists salary range in California
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a news analysts, reporters, and journalists make in California?▼
The median news analysts, reporters, and journalists salary in California is $84,830 per year ($40.79/hr). This is 41% above the national median of $60,280. Salaries range from $43,000 to $193,780.
What are the requirements to become a news analysts, reporters, and journalists in California?▼
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a news analysts, reporters, and journalists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $84,830, a news analysts, reporters, and journalists in California would take home approximately $5,336/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for news analysts, reporters, and journalists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for news analysts, reporters, and journalists in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($102,240), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($89,620), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($74,820). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for news analysts, reporters, and journalists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $84,830 salary, this means roughly $4,027/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.