Journalist Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median journalist salary in Buffalo, NY is $51,483 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
Journalist Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median journalist salary of $51,483, which is $16,788 below the New York state average of $68,271. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% 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 Buffalo spans from $29,440 at the 10th percentile to $101,200 at the 90th percentile — a $71,760 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $32,200, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,000. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level journalist earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,800 |
| Median (50th) | $51,483 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,760 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,200 |
Journalist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Buffalo
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open journalist positions in Buffalo, NY: