Journalist Salary in Houston, Texas
The median journalist salary in Houston, TX is $53,722 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Journalist Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median journalist salary of $53,722, which is $2,239 above the Texas state average of $51,483. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% 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 Houston spans from $30,720 at the 10th percentile to $105,600 at the 90th percentile — a $74,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,600, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,000. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Journalist Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level journalist earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,400 |
| Median (50th) | $53,722 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,600 |
Journalist Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Houston
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Houston and the surrounding Texas 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 Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Houston
Browse open journalist positions in Houston, TX: