Media & Communications Idaho (ID) Rank #26 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Idaho

The median broadcast journalist salary in Idaho is $48,880 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$48,880
vs National
$-3,120
State Rank
#26 of 50
Cost of Living
94%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Idaho (2026)

Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Broadcast Journalist salaries in Idaho are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $48,880 per year, broadcast journalists in Idaho earn $3,120 less than the national median of $52,000.

A key advantage of working in Idaho is its below-average cost of living (94% of the national index). This means the $48,880 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,000 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Idaho is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $28,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $94,000 — a $65,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Idaho for this role is Boise, where the median reaches $52,000.

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 Idaho by Experience

In Idaho, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $31,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,300 per year. The cost of living index in Idaho is 94% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$31,020
$-1,980 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$50,760
$-3,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$89,300
$-5,700 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Idaho

Percentile ID Salary
10th Percentile $28,200
25th Percentile $35,720
Median (50th) $48,880
75th Percentile $69,560
90th Percentile $94,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Idaho

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Idaho include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Idaho

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Idaho

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Idaho

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Idaho? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Idaho is $48,880 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $28,200 (10th percentile) to $94,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Idaho? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,880, a broadcast journalist in Idaho earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Idaho a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 94% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $31,020, while senior professionals earn $89,300.
How does Idaho compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Idaho's median of $48,880 ranks #26 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Illinois ($49,400) and Montana ($49,400).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Idaho? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Idaho earns approximately $31,020 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $50,760. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $89,300.
What city in Idaho pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Boise is the highest paying city in Idaho for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $52,000. Other cities include Meridian and Nampa.