Journalist Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median journalist salary in Norfolk, VA is $53,722 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 7.7% below the Virginia state average.
Journalist Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median journalist salary of $53,722, which is $4,476 below the Virginia state average of $58,198. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk'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 Norfolk 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. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, 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 Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,400 |
| Median (50th) | $53,722 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,600 |
Journalist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Norfolk
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Norfolk 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 Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open journalist positions in Norfolk, VA: