MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Journalist Salary in Seattle
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$81,632/yr
Typical range: $69,035 – $107,711
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Journalist salary by experience level in Seattle
Journalist Salary Progression in Seattle
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $58,637 | $4,886 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $72,434 | $6,036 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $81,632 | $6,803 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $93,129 | $7,761 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $120,723 | $10,060 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $146,938 | $12,245 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $153,491 | $12,791 | +162% |
Current Salary
$81,632
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $39/hr
Next Level Target
$93,129
Senior · 6
+$11Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
22/100
High Risk
+-2% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Journalist salary in Seattle, WA?
Mid Level Journalists in Seattle, WA earn approximately $82K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Journalist make per hour in Seattle, WA?
Based on $82K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $39/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Journalist in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Journalist in Seattle, WA earns $108K–$132K/yr.