Journalist Salary in Wichita, Kansas
The median journalist salary in Wichita, KS is $47,566 per year, which is 15% below the national median and 2.3% below the Kansas state average.
Journalist Pay in Wichita: What to Expect (2026)
Wichita offers a median journalist salary of $47,566, which is $1,119 below the Kansas state average of $48,685. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Wichita pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Wichita's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $47,566 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $55,960 in an average-cost city. This makes Wichita an attractive option for journalists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for journalists in Wichita spans from $27,200 at the 10th percentile to $93,500 at the 90th percentile — a $66,300 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,750, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $85,000. With a population of 397,532, Wichita is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Wichita by Experience
In Wichita, an entry-level journalist earns around $29,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Wichita, KS
| Percentile | Wichita |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,000 |
| Median (50th) | $47,566 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,500 |
Journalist Salary in Other Kansas Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Wichita
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Wichita and the surrounding Kansas 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 Wichita may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Wichita
Browse open journalist positions in Wichita, KS: