Media & Communications Wisconsin (WI) Rank #31 of 50

Broadcast Journalist Salary in Wisconsin

The median broadcast journalist salary in Wisconsin is $47,840 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $52,000.

Median Salary
$47,840
vs National
$-4,160
State Rank
#31 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Broadcast Journalist Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)

Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist compensation. Broadcast Journalist salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $47,840 per year, broadcast journalists in Wisconsin earn $4,160 less than the national median of $52,000.

A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $47,840 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,000 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: broadcast journalists at the 10th percentile earn $27,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $92,000 — a $64,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, 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 Wisconsin by Experience

In Wisconsin, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $30,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,400 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,360
$-2,640 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,680
$-4,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$87,400
$-7,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin

Percentile WI Salary
10th Percentile $27,600
25th Percentile $34,960
Median (50th) $47,840
75th Percentile $68,080
90th Percentile $92,000

Broadcast Journalist Salary by City in Wisconsin

The largest employment areas for broadcast journalists in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Wisconsin

Education

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

Key Skills

On-Air PresentationInterviewingScript WritingVideo EditingResearchTeleprompter

Job Outlook in Wisconsin

Nationally, broadcast journalist employment is projected to grow -4% over the next decade (decline). Wisconsin'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 $39,560 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Broadcast Journalist Salary in Wisconsin

How much does a Broadcast Journalist make in Wisconsin? ▼
The median broadcast journalist salary in Wisconsin is $47,840 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $27,600 (10th percentile) to $92,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Broadcast Journalist make per hour in Wisconsin? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $47,840, a broadcast journalist in Wisconsin earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Wisconsin a good state for broadcast journalists? ▼
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for broadcast journalist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level broadcast journalists earn $30,360, while senior professionals earn $87,400.
How does Wisconsin compare to other states for broadcast journalist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for broadcast journalists is Hawaii at $88,400. Wisconsin's median of $47,840 ranks #31 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Carolina ($47,840) and Texas ($47,840).
What is the entry-level broadcast journalist salary in Wisconsin? ▼
An entry-level broadcast journalist in Wisconsin earns approximately $30,360 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,680. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $87,400.
What city in Wisconsin pays broadcast journalists the most? ▼
Madison is the highest paying city in Wisconsin for broadcast journalists, with a median salary of $52,000. Other cities include Milwaukee and Green Bay.