Journalist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median journalist salary in Tacoma, WA is $61,556 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Journalist Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median journalist salary of $61,556, which is $2,798 below the Washington state average of $64,354. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% 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 Tacoma spans from $35,200 at the 10th percentile to $121,000 at the 90th percentile — a $85,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,500, while senior journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $110,000. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level journalist earns around $38,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $110,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,000 |
| Median (50th) | $61,556 |
| 75th Percentile | $85,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $121,000 |
Journalist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Tacoma
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open journalist positions in Tacoma, WA: