Media & Communications Arizona (AZ) Rank #19 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Arizona

The median broadcast journalist salary in Arizona is $50,440 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$50,440
vs National
$-1,560
State Rank
#19 of 50
Cost of Living
97%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Arizona (2026)

Arizona ranks #19 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Arizona falls in the middle of the pack for broadcast journalist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $50,440 per year, broadcast journalists in Arizona earn $1,560 less than the national median of $52,000.

Arizona's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning broadcast journalist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Arizona is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $29,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,000 — a $67,900 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arizona for this role is Scottsdale, where the median reaches $58,240.

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 Arizona by Experience

In Arizona, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $32,010, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,150 per year. The cost of living index in Arizona is 97% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,010
$-990 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$52,380
$-1,620 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$92,150
$-2,850 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Arizona

Percentile AZ Salary
10th Percentile $29,100
25th Percentile $36,860
Median (50th) $50,440
75th Percentile $71,780
90th Percentile $97,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Arizona

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Arizona include Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Scottsdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Arizona

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Arizona

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

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Data shows Broadcast Journalists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $41,710 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Arizona

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Arizona? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Arizona is $50,440 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $29,100 (10th percentile) to $97,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Arizona? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $50,440, a broadcast journalist in Arizona earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Arizona a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Arizona ranks #19 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 97% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $32,010, while senior professionals earn $92,150.
How does Arizona compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Arizona's median of $50,440 ranks #19 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Florida ($50,960) and Maine ($50,960).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Arizona? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Arizona earns approximately $32,010 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $52,380. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $92,150.
What city in Arizona pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Scottsdale is the highest paying city in Arizona for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $58,240. Other cities include Phoenix and Tucson.