Media & Communications Louisiana (LA) Rank #33 of 50

Journalist Salary in Louisiana

The median journalist salary in Louisiana is $50,924 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $55,960.

Median Salary

$50,924

vs National

$-5,036

State Rank

#33 of 50

Cost of Living

91%

Journalist Salary in Louisiana by Experience

In Louisiana, an entry-level journalist earns around $31,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,000 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$31,850

$-3,150 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$52,780

$-5,220 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$91,000

$-9,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Louisiana

Percentile	LA Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$29,120	$32,000	$-2,880
25th Percentile	$36,400	$40,000	$-3,600
Median (50th)	$50,924	$55,960	$-5,036
75th Percentile	$70,980	$78,000	$-7,020
90th Percentile	$100,100	$110,000	$-9,900

Journalist Salary by City in Louisiana

The largest employment areas for journalists in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

New Orleans, LA

$54,841

Pop. 383,997 · COL 98%

Baton Rouge, LA

$51,483

Pop. 227,470 · COL 92%

Shreveport, LA

$47,566

Pop. 187,593 · COL 85%

Lafayette, LA

$49,245

Pop. 121,374 · COL 88%

Lake Charles, LA

$48,126

Pop. 80,000 · COL 86%

How to Become a Journalist in Louisiana

Education

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

Key Skills

WritingInvestigative ResearchInterviewingAP StyleCMS PlatformsSocial Media

Job Outlook in Louisiana

Nationally, journalist employment is projected to grow -3% over the next decade (decline). Louisiana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.