Media & Communications Alabama (AL) Rank #44 of 50

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Alabama

The median public relations specialist salary in Alabama is $58,673 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $67,440.

Median Salary
$58,673
vs National
$-8,767
State Rank
#44 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Public Relations Specialist Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)

Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for public relations specialist compensation. Public Relations Specialist salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,673 per year, public relations specialists in Alabama earn $8,767 less than the national median of $67,440.

A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $58,673 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $67,440 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Alabama is significant: public relations specialists at the 10th percentile earn $33,060, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $104,400 — a $71,340 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $62,045.

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for public relations specialists across the country.

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Alabama by Experience

In Alabama, an entry-level public relations specialist earns around $36,540, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,440 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,540
$-5,460 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$60,900
$-9,100 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$97,440
$-14,560 vs national

Save More on Student Loans

Earning $58,673? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.

Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →

Salary Percentiles in Alabama

Percentile AL Salary
10th Percentile $33,060
25th Percentile $43,500
Median (50th) $58,673
75th Percentile $79,170
90th Percentile $104,400

Public Relations Specialist Salary by City in Alabama

The largest employment areas for public relations specialists in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Public Relations Specialist in Alabama

Education

Most public relations specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Media RelationsPress ReleasesCrisis CommunicationsSocial MediaEvent PlanningBrand Management

Job Outlook in Alabama

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Public Relations Specialists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $38,767 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Public Relations Specialist Roles in Alabama?

Get matched with recruiters hiring public relations specialists in Alabama at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Public Relations Specialist Salary in Alabama

How much does a Public Relations Specialist make in Alabama? ▼
The median public relations specialist salary in Alabama is $58,673 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $67,440. Salaries range from $33,060 (10th percentile) to $104,400 (90th percentile).
How much does a Public Relations Specialist make per hour in Alabama? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,673, a public relations specialist in Alabama earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alabama a good state for public relations specialists? ▼
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for public relations specialist pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level public relations specialists earn $36,540, while senior professionals earn $97,440.
How does Alabama compare to other states for public relations specialist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for public relations specialists is Hawaii at $114,648. Alabama's median of $58,673 ranks #44 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Missouri ($59,347) and South Dakota ($59,347).
What is the entry-level public relations specialist salary in Alabama? ▼
An entry-level public relations specialist in Alabama earns approximately $36,540 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $60,900. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $97,440.
What city in Alabama pays public relations specialists the most? ▼
Huntsville is the highest paying city in Alabama for public relations specialists, with a median salary of $62,045. Other cities include Birmingham and Montgomery.