How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in New York
Public Relations Specialists in New York earn a median salary of $78,510/year, which is 13% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $3,580/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in New York
Becoming a public relations specialists in New York
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Specialists positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many public relations specialists positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for public relations specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 25,780 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in New York-Newark-Jersey City and Elmira.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $80K | $38.46/hr | 23,640 |
| Elmira | $71K | $34.05/hr | 30 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh | $69K | $33.02/hr | 400 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga | $66K | $31.73/hr | 770 |
| Rochester | $65K | $31.25/hr | 810 |
| Glens Falls | $65K | $31.14/hr | 50 |
| Ithaca | $64K | $30.7/hr | 180 |
| Syracuse | $64K | $30.65/hr | 440 |
| Utica-Rome | $64K | $30.63/hr | 120 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $63K | $30.52/hr | 1,440 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum | $63K | $30.1/hr | 40 |
| Kingston | $62K | $29.72/hr | 90 |
| Binghamton | $61K | $29.11/hr | 130 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in New York
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in New York?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in New York is $78,510 per year ($37.75/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $49,350 to $149,880.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in New York?▼
Public Relations Specialists positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a public relations specialists afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $78,510, a public relations specialists in New York would take home approximately $4,992/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in New York are New York-Newark-Jersey City ($79,990), Elmira ($70,830), Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh ($68,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $78,510 salary, this means roughly $3,713/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.