Media & Communications West Virginia (WV) Rank #49 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in West Virginia

The median broadcast journalist salary in West Virginia is $43,680 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$43,680
vs National
$-8,320
State Rank
#49 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in West Virginia (2026)

West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Broadcast Journalist salaries in West Virginia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,680 per year, broadcast journalists in West Virginia earn $8,320 less than the national median of $52,000.

A key advantage of working in West Virginia is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $43,680 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,000 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in West Virginia is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $25,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,000 — a $58,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in West Virginia for this role is Morgantown, where the median reaches $46,800.

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 West Virginia by Experience

In West Virginia, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $27,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,800 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$27,720
$-5,280 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$45,360
$-8,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$79,800
$-15,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in West Virginia

Percentile WV Salary
10th Percentile $25,200
25th Percentile $31,920
Median (50th) $43,680
75th Percentile $62,160
90th Percentile $84,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in West Virginia

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in West Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in West Virginia

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in West Virginia

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in West Virginia? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in West Virginia is $43,680 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $25,200 (10th percentile) to $84,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in West Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $43,680, a broadcast journalist in West Virginia earns approximately $21 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is West Virginia a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $27,720, while senior professionals earn $79,800.
How does West Virginia compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. West Virginia's median of $43,680 ranks #49 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Oklahoma ($44,720) and Arkansas ($43,680).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in West Virginia? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in West Virginia earns approximately $27,720 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $45,360. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $79,800.
What city in West Virginia pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Morgantown is the highest paying city in West Virginia for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $46,800. Other cities include Charleston and Huntington.