Journalist Salary in Mason City, IA
How much does a journalist make in Mason City? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Mason City's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how journalist salaries break down across different pay periods in Mason City.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $21,292 | $36,710 | $55,065 |
| Monthly | $1,774 | $3,059 | $4,589 |
| Biweekly | $819 | $1,412 | $2,118 |
| Weekly | $409 | $706 | $1,059 |
| Hourly | $10 | $18 | $26 |
Mason City vs National Average
How Mason City's journalist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Mason City
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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Financial Tools to Explore
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Journalist Salary in Mason City, IA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a journalist in Mason City, IA is $36,710 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 80. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Mason City's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level journalist professionals in Mason City can expect to earn around $21,292 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level journalists earning approximately $55,065 per year. This represents a 159% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Mason City's cost of living index of 80 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Mason City 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 Mason City typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $640 per month, housing represents about 20.9% 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 Mason City, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.