Journalist Salary in Hawaii
The median journalist salary in Hawaii is $95,132 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $55,960.
Journalist Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for journalist compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for journalists seeking high pay. At $95,132 per year, journalists in Hawaii earn $39,172 more than the national median of $55,960.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $95,132 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $55,960.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: journalists at the 10th percentile earn $54,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $187,000 — a $132,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $97,930.
Nationally, journalist employment is projected to grow -3% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced journalists with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Journalist Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level journalist earns around $59,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $170,000 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,000 |
| Median (50th) | $95,132 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $187,000 |
Journalist Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for journalists in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Journalist in Hawaii
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, journalist employment is projected to grow -3% over the next decade (decline). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Journalists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $74,868 over your career trajectory.
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