Journalist Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median journalist salary in Paterson, NJ is $58,758 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Journalist Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median journalist salary of $58,758, which is $5,596 below the New Jersey state average of $64,354. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $33,600 at the 10th percentile to $115,500 at the 90th percentile — a $81,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,750, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $105,000. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level journalist earns around $36,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,000 |
| Median (50th) | $58,758 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $115,500 |
Journalist Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Paterson
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Paterson
Browse open journalist positions in Paterson, NJ: