Journalist Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median journalist salary in Charleston, SC is $55,960 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Journalist Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median journalist salary of $55,960, which is $6,156 above the South Carolina state average of $49,804. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Charleston pays above average for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 Charleston spans from $32,000 at the 10th percentile to $110,000 at the 90th percentile — a $78,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,000, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $100,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level journalist earns around $35,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,000 |
| Median (50th) | $55,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $110,000 |
Journalist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Charleston
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Charleston
Browse open journalist positions in Charleston, SC: