Journalist Salary in Decatur, IL
How much does a journalist make in Decatur? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Decatur's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how journalist salaries break down across different pay periods in Decatur.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $26,582 | $45,831 | $68,747 |
| Monthly | $2,215 | $3,819 | $5,729 |
| Biweekly | $1,022 | $1,763 | $2,644 |
| Weekly | $511 | $881 | $1,322 |
| Hourly | $13 | $22 | $33 |
Decatur vs National Average
How Decatur's journalist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Decatur
About Journalist
Overview
Research and write news stories for publications.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Journalism or related field
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
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Journalist Salary in Decatur, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a journalist in Decatur, IL is $45,831 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 78. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Decatur's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level journalist professionals in Decatur can expect to earn around $26,582 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level journalists earning approximately $68,747 per year. This represents a 159% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Decatur's cost of living index of 78 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Decatur are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $55,960, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a journalist's salary in Decatur typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $650 per month, housing represents about 17.0% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Journalists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% over the next decade. In Decatur, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.