Media & Communications Alabama (AL) Rank #44 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Alabama

The median broadcast journalist salary in Alabama is $45,240 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$45,240
vs National
$-6,760
State Rank
#44 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)

Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Broadcast Journalist salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,240 per year, broadcast journalists in Alabama earn $6,760 less than the national median of $52,000.

A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $45,240 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,000 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Alabama is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $26,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,000 — a $60,900 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $47,840.

Nationally, broadcast journalist employment is projected to grow -4% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced broadcast journalists with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Alabama by Experience

In Alabama, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $28,710, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,650 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$28,710
$-4,290 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$46,980
$-7,020 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$82,650
$-12,350 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alabama

Percentile AL Salary
10th Percentile $26,100
25th Percentile $33,060
Median (50th) $45,240
75th Percentile $64,380
90th Percentile $87,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Alabama

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Alabama

Education

Most broadcast journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Alabama

Nationally, broadcast journalist employment is projected to grow -4% over the next decade (decline). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Alabama

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Alabama? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Alabama is $45,240 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $26,100 (10th percentile) to $87,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Alabama? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $45,240, a broadcast journalist in Alabama earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alabama a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $28,710, while senior professionals earn $82,650.
How does Alabama compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Alabama's median of $45,240 ranks #44 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Missouri ($45,760) and South Dakota ($45,760).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Alabama? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Alabama earns approximately $28,710 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $46,980. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $82,650.
What city in Alabama pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Huntsville is the highest paying city in Alabama for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $47,840. Other cities include Birmingham and Montgomery.