Journalist Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median journalist salary in Nashville, TN is $55,960 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the Tennessee state average.
Journalist Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median journalist salary of $55,960, which is $6,156 above the Tennessee state average of $49,804. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Nashville pays above average for this role.
Nashville'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 Nashville 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. As a major metro area with a population of 689,447, Nashville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Journalist Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, 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 Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,000 |
| Median (50th) | $55,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $110,000 |
Journalist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Nashville
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Nashville and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Nashville
Browse open journalist positions in Nashville, TN: