Journalist Salary in New Orleans, Louisiana
The median journalist salary in New Orleans, LA is $54,841 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 7.7% above the Louisiana state average.
Journalist Pay in New Orleans: What to Expect (2026)
New Orleans offers a median journalist salary of $54,841, which is $3,917 above the Louisiana state average of $50,924. Compared to the national median of $55,960, New Orleans pays below the national benchmark for this role.
New Orleans's cost of living is 98% 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 New Orleans spans from $31,360 at the 10th percentile to $107,800 at the 90th percentile — a $76,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $98,000. With a population of 383,997, New Orleans is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in New Orleans by Experience
In New Orleans, an entry-level journalist earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in New Orleans, LA
| Percentile | New Orleans |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,200 |
| Median (50th) | $54,841 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,800 |
Journalist Salary in Other Louisiana Cities
How to Become a Journalist in New Orleans
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. New Orleans and the surrounding Louisiana 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 New Orleans may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in New Orleans
Browse open journalist positions in New Orleans, LA: