Journalist Salary in Madison, Wisconsin
The median journalist salary in Madison, WI is $55,960 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 8.7% above the Wisconsin state average.
Journalist Pay in Madison: What to Expect (2026)
Madison offers a median journalist salary of $55,960, which is $4,477 above the Wisconsin state average of $51,483. Compared to the national median of $55,960, Madison pays above average for this role.
Madison'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 Madison 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. With a population of 269,840, Madison is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Journalist Salary in Madison by Experience
In Madison, 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 Madison, WI
| Percentile | Madison |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,000 |
| Median (50th) | $55,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $110,000 |
Journalist Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Journalist in Madison
Education
Most journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin 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 Madison may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Journalist Jobs in Madison
Browse open journalist positions in Madison, WI: