Journalist Salary in Billings, Montana
The median journalist salary in Billings, MT is $53,722 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 1.1% above the Montana state average.
Journalist Pay in Billings: What to Expect (2026)
Billings offers a median journalist salary of $53,722, which is $560 above the Montana state average of $53,162. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Billings pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Billings's cost of living is 96% 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 Billings spans from $30,720 at the 10th percentile to $105,600 at the 90th percentile — a $74,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,600, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,000. With a population of 117,116, Billings is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Billings by Experience
In Billings, an entry-level journalist earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Billings, MT
| Percentile | Billings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,400 |
| Median (50th) | $53,722 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,600 |
Journalist Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Billings
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Billings and the surrounding Montana 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 Billings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Billings
Browse open journalist positions in Billings, MT: