Media & Communications Pennsylvania (PA) Rank #23 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Pennsylvania

The median broadcast journalist salary in Pennsylvania is $49,920 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$49,920
vs National
$-2,080
State Rank
#23 of 50
Cost of Living
96%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)

Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for broadcast journalist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $49,920 per year, broadcast journalists in Pennsylvania earn $2,080 less than the national median of $52,000.

Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning broadcast journalist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $28,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $96,000 — a $67,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $53,040.

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 Pennsylvania by Experience

In Pennsylvania, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $31,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,200 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$31,680
$-1,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$51,840
$-2,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$91,200
$-3,800 vs national

Save More on Student Loans

Earning $49,920? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.

Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →

Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania

Percentile PA Salary
10th Percentile $28,800
25th Percentile $36,480
Median (50th) $49,920
75th Percentile $71,040
90th Percentile $96,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Pennsylvania

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Pennsylvania

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Broadcast Journalists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $41,280 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Broadcast Journalist Roles in Pennsylvania?

Get matched with recruiters hiring broadcast journalists in Pennsylvania at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Pennsylvania

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Pennsylvania? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Pennsylvania is $49,920 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $28,800 (10th percentile) to $96,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Pennsylvania? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $49,920, a broadcast journalist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Pennsylvania a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 96% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $31,680, while senior professionals earn $91,200.
How does Pennsylvania compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Pennsylvania's median of $49,920 ranks #23 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Nevada ($50,440) and Utah ($50,440).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Pennsylvania? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $31,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $51,840. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $91,200.
What city in Pennsylvania pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Philadelphia is the highest paying city in Pennsylvania for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $53,040. Other cities include Pittsburgh and Allentown.