Technical Writers vs. Public Relations Specialists: Who Earns More?
Technical Writers out-earn Public Relations Specialists by $16K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Technical Writers land at $90,390 and Public Relations Specialists at $74,750. The education gap is real: technical writer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while public relations specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Technical Writers is New Jersey ($122,320); for Public Relations Specialists it's District of Columbia ($102,740).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Technical Writers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Technical Writers or Public Relations Specialists?
Technical Writers earn more nationally. The median is $90,390 for Technical Writers versus $74,750 for Public Relations Specialists, a difference of $16K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Technical Writers or Public Relations Specialists?
Public Relations Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 4.8% projected growth, compared to 0.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Technical Writers or Public Relations Specialists?
Technical Writers typically requires bachelor's degree. Public Relations Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Technical Writers get paid the most?
New Jersey is the top-paying state for Technical Writers at $122,320/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Technical Writers vs. Public Relations Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Jersey, Technical Writers earn $122,320 vs. $80,130 for Public Relations Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.