News reporters, correspondents and broadcast news analysts compete for relatively few job openings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of May 2010, reporters and correspondents held 45,130 jobs nationally, while broadcast news analysts held 5,670 jobs. Low pay, long hours and extensive travel are balanced by the cache of these jobs, which draw keen competition. A minimum of a bachelor's degree in journalism or communications is desirable for these jobs, but smaller newspapers, publications and broadcast news channels may hire interns and apprentices with less education.
Salaries Vary by Media, Experience
Starting pay is lower for reporters and correspondents than for broadcast news analysts. The BLS reports that salaries for the lowest paid 10 percent of news reporters were $19,970 or less as of May 2010. Salaries for the lowest 25 percent of print reporters were $25,520 or less. Salaries for the lowest paid 10 percent of broadcast news analysts were $27,560 or less, and salaries for the lowest paid 25 percent of news analysts were $35,550 or less as of May 2010. National average salaries for reporters and correspondents was $43,780. Broadcast news analysts earned a national average salary of $72,710 as of May 2010.
Salaries by Location
Entry-level candidates seeking jobs as reporters and correspondents are most likely to find jobs with smaller presses, newspapers and broadcast news outlets. The BLS notes that the three top-paying markets for reporters and correspondents as of May 2010 were: Edison-New Brunswick, New Jersey, with average salaries at $88,300; Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta, Georgia, at $82,010; and Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, Massachusetts, at $70,150. Broadcast news analysts are generally recruited from the ranks of experienced reporters, news writers and correspondents. Top-paying markets for broadcast news analysts include Miami-Miami Beach, Florida, with average salaries at $157,970; Orlando-Kissimmee, Florida, at $138,290; and San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, California, at $120,376.
Factors Influencing Salaries
Salaries for reporters, correspondents and news analysts can vary according to location, size of employer and union affiliations. Labor unions including the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists typically represent broadcast news analysts and bargain for members' pay and benefits The most desirable positions in large metropolitan areas working for national and international broadcast networks and cable networks usually require years of experience and/or a graduate degree in journalism or communications. Job opportunities for reporters and correspondents may allow for telecommuting and are more widely available due to the presence of print and broadcast media in most communities.
Excellent Technical Skills May Enhance Earnings
In addition to formal education, reporters, correspondents and news analysts must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, and have excellent command of computer programs, databases and equipment used in their jobs. Internships, academic awards and related employment during college are key components of a resume, and may assist with applicants landing a better starting salary. Improve computer and technology skills by enrolling in news and broadcast related programs offered through vocational, community college and university extension programs. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are essential for meeting deadlines.
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