Media & Communications Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Virginia

The median broadcast journalist salary in Virginia is $54,080 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$54,080
vs National
+$2,080
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for broadcast journalist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $54,080 per year, broadcast journalists in Virginia earn $2,080 more than the national median of $52,000.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning broadcast journalist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $31,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $104,000 — a $72,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $68,640.

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 Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $34,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,800 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,320
+$1,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,160
+$2,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$98,800
+$3,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $31,200
25th Percentile $39,520
Median (50th) $54,080
75th Percentile $76,960
90th Percentile $104,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Virginia

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Virginia

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Virginia? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Virginia is $54,080 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $31,200 (10th percentile) to $104,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $54,080, a broadcast journalist in Virginia earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $34,320, while senior professionals earn $98,800.
How does Virginia compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Virginia's median of $54,080 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($54,600) and Rhode Island ($54,600).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Virginia earns approximately $34,320 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $56,160. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $98,800.
What city in Virginia pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $68,640. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.