Journalist Salary in Aurora, Illinois
The median journalist salary in Aurora, IL is $53,162 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 0.0% above the Illinois state average.
Journalist Pay in Aurora: What to Expect (2026)
Aurora offers a median journalist salary of $53,162, which is $0 above the Illinois state average of $53,162. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Aurora pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Aurora's cost of living is 95% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for journalists in Aurora spans from $30,400 at the 10th percentile to $104,500 at the 90th percentile — a $74,100 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,250, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $95,000. With a population of 197,757, Aurora is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Aurora by Experience
In Aurora, an entry-level journalist earns around $33,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $95,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aurora, IL
| Percentile | Aurora |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,000 |
| Median (50th) | $53,162 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,500 |
Journalist Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Aurora
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Aurora and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, journalist employment is projected to grow -3% over the next decade (decline). Demand in Aurora may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Aurora
Browse open journalist positions in Aurora, IL: