Journalist Salary in Tulsa, Oklahoma
The median journalist salary in Tulsa, OK is $48,126 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 0.0% above the Oklahoma state average.
Journalist Pay in Tulsa: What to Expect (2026)
Tulsa offers a median journalist salary of $48,126, which is $0 above the Oklahoma state average of $48,126. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Tulsa pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Tulsa's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $48,126 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $55,960 in an average-cost city. This makes Tulsa an attractive option for journalists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for journalists in Tulsa spans from $27,520 at the 10th percentile to $94,600 at the 90th percentile — a $67,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,100, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $86,000. With a population of 413,066, Tulsa is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Tulsa by Experience
In Tulsa, an entry-level journalist earns around $30,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tulsa, OK
| Percentile | Tulsa |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,400 |
| Median (50th) | $48,126 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $94,600 |
Journalist Salary in Other Oklahoma Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Tulsa
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Tulsa and the surrounding Oklahoma 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 Tulsa may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Tulsa
Browse open journalist positions in Tulsa, OK: