Journalist Salary in Rochester, Minnesota
The median journalist salary in Rochester, MN is $54,841 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 1.0% above the Minnesota state average.
Journalist Pay in Rochester: What to Expect (2026)
Rochester offers a median journalist salary of $54,841, which is $560 above the Minnesota state average of $54,281. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Rochester pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rochester'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 Rochester 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 121,395, Rochester is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Rochester by Experience
In Rochester, 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 Rochester, MN
| Percentile | Rochester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,200 |
| Median (50th) | $54,841 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,800 |
Journalist Salary in Other Minnesota Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Rochester
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Rochester and the surrounding Minnesota 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 Rochester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Rochester
Browse open journalist positions in Rochester, MN: