Journalist Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median journalist salary in Chesapeake, VA is $54,841 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
Journalist Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median journalist salary of $54,841, which is $3,357 below the Virginia state average of $58,198. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Chesapeake pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Chesapeake's cost of living is 98% 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 Chesapeake spans from $31,360 at the 10th percentile to $107,800 at the 90th percentile — a $76,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $98,000. With a population of 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level journalist earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,200 |
| Median (50th) | $54,841 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,800 |
Journalist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Chesapeake
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia 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 Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open journalist positions in Chesapeake, VA: