Media & Communications Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Journalist Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median journalist salary in Chicago, IL is $59,877 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$59,877
vs State Avg
+$6,715
vs National
+$3,917
Cost of Living
107%

Journalist Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level journalist earns around $37,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $107,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,450
+$2,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$62,060
+$4,060 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$107,000
+$7,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $34,240
25th Percentile $42,800
Median (50th) $59,877
75th Percentile $83,460
90th Percentile $117,700

Journalist Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$60,437
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$53,162
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$47,566
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$45,887
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Journalist in Chicago

Education

Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

WritingInvestigative ResearchInterviewingAP StyleCMS PlatformsSocial Media

Job Outlook

Nationally, journalist employment is projected to grow -3% over the next decade (decline). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.