Journalism is one of the most exciting and dynamic careers. Journalists inform the public, uncover stories, and report news through print, television, radio, and digital media. They play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and holding authorities accountable.
One common question for anyone aspiring to enter this field is: “How much does a journalist earn?” In this article, we will explore the salary of journalists in India and abroad, factors affecting pay, career growth opportunities, and benefits of the profession.
A journalist is a professional who researches, writes, and reports news stories for newspapers, magazines, television, radio, or online platforms. Their work involves interviewing people, investigating events, and presenting information accurately and fairly.
There are different types of journalists:
Print Journalist: Writes for newspapers and magazines.
Broadcast Journalist: Works on television or radio news programs.
Digital Journalist: Reports for online news portals, blogs, and social media.
Investigative Journalist: Uncovers hidden truths or corruption, often requiring in-depth research.
Photojournalist: Uses photography to tell stories visually.
Journalists require excellent communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to work under tight deadlines. The salary often reflects their experience, specialization, and the type of media organization they work for.
Average Journalist Salary in India
In India, journalist salaries vary based on experience, media type, city, and the scale of the organization. Here’s a general overview:
Level
Average Salary per Month
Average Salary per Year
Entry-Level
₹20,000 – ₹35,000
₹2.4 lakh – ₹4.2 lakh
Mid-Level
₹35,000 – ₹60,000
₹4.2 lakh – ₹7.2 lakh
Senior-Level
₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000+
₹7.2 lakh – ₹12 lakh+
Note: Salaries in national newspapers, leading TV channels, or top digital media companies tend to be higher than smaller regional outlets.
Entry-Level Salary
Fresh graduates in journalism typically start with a salary of ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 per month. Entry-level roles include reporter, junior correspondent, or news assistant. During this phase, journalists gain practical experience, learn field reporting, and improve writing skills.
Mid-Level Salary
With 3–7 years of experience, a journalist can earn ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 per month. Mid-level journalists may handle special reporting areas like politics, business, sports, or entertainment. They may also manage junior reporters and handle bigger stories.
Senior-Level Salary
Experienced journalists working in national media houses, investigative journalism, or editorial positions can earn ₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000+ per month. Senior roles include senior correspondent, editor, bureau chief, or anchor in television news.
Journalist Salary by Media Type
A journalist’s salary also depends on the medium they work in.
1. Print Media
Print journalists work for newspapers and magazines. Salaries are moderate but offer steady growth.
TV journalists often earn more due to the visual nature of news and live reporting pressures.
Salary Range: ₹30,000 – ₹1,00,000 per month.
Roles: Anchor, Reporter, Field Journalist, News Editor.
3. Digital Media
Online news portals and digital platforms are growing rapidly. Salaries vary widely based on reach and company size.
Salary Range: ₹25,000 – ₹80,000 per month.
Roles: Digital Reporter, Content Writer, Social Media Journalist.
4. Freelance Journalism
Freelancers work independently, pitching stories to newspapers, magazines, or websites. Income can fluctuate but offers flexibility.
Salary Range: ₹15,000 – ₹1,00,000+ per month depending on projects and clients.
Factors Affecting Journalist Salary
Several factors influence how much a journalist earns:
1. Experience
Experience is a key factor. Senior journalists with decades of field experience earn much more than fresh graduates.
2. Type of Media
TV and digital media often pay higher than print, especially for high-profile reporting or anchoring.
3. City and Location
Journalists in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore earn more due to higher living costs and bigger media houses.
4. Specialization
Specialized reporting in areas like politics, business, or investigative journalism can lead to higher salaries.
5. Education and Skills
Journalism graduates with degrees in mass communication, editing, or digital media, combined with strong writing and communication skills, have better earning potential.
Journalist Salary Abroad
Journalists in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia generally earn higher salaries due to demand, media industry size, and cost of living.
Country
Average Salary per Year
USA
$40,000 – $80,000
UK
£25,000 – £50,000
Canada
CAD 50,000 – CAD 85,000
Australia
AUD 60,000 – AUD 100,000
Germany
€35,000 – €70,000
Senior journalists, editors, and investigative reporters abroad can earn significantly higher, especially in top media houses.
Career Growth and Promotions
A journalist’s career growth is structured but competitive:
Anchor / News Presenter: Works in TV media with high visibility.
Bureau Chief / Chief Editor: Top-level position with high salary and decision-making power.
Promotions often depend on experience, quality of reporting, and professional reputation.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Journalist?
Journalists can increase their salary by improving skills, experience, and professional profile:
Gain Experience: More years in reporting lead to better pay.
Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Politics, business, sports, or investigative journalism offer higher pay.
Work in Metro Cities: Salaries in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are higher due to bigger media houses.
Build a Professional Portfolio: Publishing high-quality articles and breaking stories enhances reputation.
Acquire Digital Skills: Multimedia journalism, SEO writing, and social media reporting increase marketability.
Take Leadership Roles: Editorial or managerial positions offer substantial pay increases.
Freelancing or Consulting: Experienced journalists can earn extra by freelancing for multiple outlets.
Perks and Benefits for Journalists
Besides salary, journalists may receive several benefits:
Health Insurance: Provided by many media houses for employees and families.
Travel Allowances: Especially for field reporting and international assignments.
Work Flexibility: Freelancers and digital journalists enjoy flexible schedules.
Professional Development: Media organizations often provide training, workshops, and exposure to international reporting standards.
Recognition and Awards: Awards for investigative journalism or outstanding reporting enhance reputation and earning potential.
Retirement Benefits: Some large media houses provide provident fund or pension schemes for permanent employees.
Challenges Faced by Journalists
While journalism can be rewarding, it also comes with challenges:
Long and Unpredictable Hours: News deadlines require working nights, weekends, and holidays.
High Pressure: Accuracy, speed, and responsibility can make the job stressful.
Field Risks: Reporting in conflict zones or disaster areas can be dangerous.
Income Fluctuation: Freelancers may have inconsistent earnings.
Despite challenges, journalism is respected, offers learning opportunities, and allows journalists to make a social impact.
Summary
Journalism is a challenging yet rewarding career with diverse opportunities. Salaries depend on experience, media type, city, and specialization. While entry-level journalists earn around ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 per month, experienced professionals in editorial or investigative roles can earn ₹1,00,000+ per month in India.
Entry-Level Salary: ₹20,000 – ₹35,000/month
Mid-Level Salary: ₹35,000 – ₹60,000/month
Senior-Level Salary: ₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000+/month
International Salaries: $40,000 – $100,000/year
With experience, specialization, and leadership roles, a journalist’s career can be both financially and professionally fulfilling.
FAQs
What is the starting salary of a journalist in India? Entry-level journalists earn ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 per month, depending on the media house and city.
Which type of journalist earns the most? TV anchors, investigative journalists, and senior editors usually earn the highest salaries.
Does experience affect journalist salary? Yes, more experience leads to promotions, higher pay, and senior editorial roles.
Can journalists work abroad? Yes, countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia offer higher salaries and opportunities.
Do freelancers earn well in journalism? Freelancers can earn ₹15,000 – ₹1,00,000+ depending on projects, clients, and experience.
What perks do journalists receive? Perks include health insurance, travel allowances, training, awards, and sometimes retirement benefits.
Can a journalist increase salary with specialization? Yes, specialization in business, politics, sports, or investigative journalism increases earning potential.
Are salaries higher in metro cities? Yes, cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore offer higher pay due to bigger media houses.
What skills increase journalist salaries? Skills like multimedia reporting, digital journalism, social media reporting, and investigative research boost income.
What is the career path for a journalist? Junior Reporter → Senior Reporter → Editor / Anchor → Bureau Chief / Chief Editor.
Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.
