Media & Communications Missouri (MO) Rank #42 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Missouri

The median broadcast journalist salary in Missouri is $45,760 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$45,760
vs National
$-6,240
State Rank
#42 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)

Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Broadcast Journalist salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,760 per year, broadcast journalists in Missouri earn $6,240 less than the national median of $52,000.

A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $45,760 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,000 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Missouri is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $26,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,000 — a $61,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, 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 Missouri by Experience

In Missouri, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $29,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$29,040
$-3,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$47,520
$-6,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,600
$-11,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Missouri

Percentile MO Salary
10th Percentile $26,400
25th Percentile $33,440
Median (50th) $45,760
75th Percentile $65,120
90th Percentile $88,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Missouri

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Missouri

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Missouri

Nationally, broadcast journalist employment is projected to grow -4% over the next decade (decline). Missouri'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 $37,840 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Missouri

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Missouri? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Missouri is $45,760 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $26,400 (10th percentile) to $88,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Missouri? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $45,760, a broadcast journalist in Missouri earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Missouri a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $29,040, while senior professionals earn $83,600.
How does Missouri compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Missouri's median of $45,760 ranks #42 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Carolina ($46,280) and Tennessee ($46,280).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Missouri? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Missouri earns approximately $29,040 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $47,520. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $83,600.
What city in Missouri pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Kansas City is the highest paying city in Missouri for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $47,840. Other cities include Saint Louis and Springfield.