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Job outlook for editors in chief in the United States
Editor in chief job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected editor in chief job growth rate is -5% from 2018-2028.
About -5,500 new jobs for editors in chief are projected over the next decade.
Editor in chief salaries have increased 11% for editors in chief in the last 5 years.
There are over 50,441 editors in chief currently employed in the United States.
There are 25,056 active editor in chief job openings in the US.
The average editor in chief salary is $54,751.
Are editor in chief jobs in demand?
Editor in chief job and salary trends over time
Editor in chief jobs over time
Editor in chief job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 50,441 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 53,049 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 54,526 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 54,401 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 55,049 | 0.02% |
Average editor in chief salary over time
Editor in chief salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $54,751 | $26.32 | +3.3% |
| 2024 | $52,998 | $25.48 | +3.2% |
| 2023 | $51,366 | $24.70 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $50,753 | $24.40 | +2.7% |
| 2021 | $49,405 | $23.75 | +2.1% |
Editor in chief jobs by state
Most common states for editors in chief
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 370 | 53% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 556 | 8% |
| 3 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 570 | 7% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 450 | 7% |
| 5 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 277 | 7% |
| 6 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 38 | 7% |
| 7 | New York | 19,849,399 | 1,184 | 6% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 59 | 6% |
| 9 | Alaska | 739,795 | 46 | 6% |
| 10 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 349 | 5% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 34 | 5% |
| 12 | California | 39,536,653 | 1,537 | 4% |
| 13 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 369 | 4% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 228 | 4% |
| 15 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 216 | 4% |
| 16 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 158 | 4% |
| 17 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 118 | 4% |
| 18 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 79 | 4% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 46 | 4% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 38 | 4% |
Most common cities for editors in chief
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cambridge | 1 | 1% | $56,882 |
| 2 | Silver Spring | 1 | 1% | $46,088 |
| 3 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $46,029 |
| 4 | New York | 1 | 0% | $74,552 |
Editor In Chief job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of editor in chief experts
California State University - Sacramento
Fairfield University
The University of Findlay
University of San Francisco
The University of the Arts
Western Kentucky University
University of Miami
California State University - Fullerton
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Montclair State University
New Mexico State University
Dallas Baptist University
Metropolitan State University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
University of Missouri - Kansas City
American University
Ohio Wesleyan University
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Dr. Terry Nugent: Graduates with a BA in English have more opportunities than ever before in the job market. While most think only about the degree as a stepping stone into K12 teaching or graduate school, the degree can also be a stepping stone into the corporate world. Large corporations need people who have experience writing complex texts, applying critical thinking and analytic abilities, and audience awareness when communicating with stakeholders at all levels of their industry. Industries that hire English majors include nonprofit organizations, government agencies, medical institutions, journalism, publishing, and entertainment. Basically, I would encourage a senior or new graduate to think outside the box—hone in on the industry you think you would be most interested in, think about the kind of work environment you are best suited for, and then look for entry-level positions with companies in that industry.
Viola Ardeni
Assistant Professor & Italian Language Area HeadCalifornia State University - Sacramento
Romance Languages, Literatures, And Linguistics
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Viola Ardeni: To recent graduates in any field, I would recommend making sure they are doing two things: 'Ask questions' and 'Show up.' In the Romance languages, literatures, and linguistics field, asking questions may mean asking for a long of informational interviews, even in places where there are no current jobs openings. You never know what you will learn from talking to someone who is working and has your same degree. Asking questions also means to be present, aware, and critical. Showing up may instead mean trying different things. Besides teaching, there is no clear job following degrees in Romance languages etc. (and even 'teaching' includes a variety of jobs), so taking advantage of different opportunities may come in handy.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Viola Ardeni: The editing of texts produced by others, above all. Being good editors will be crucial. In addition, to the ability to summarize in short, easy bit very large and complex amounts of information, possibly coming from different linguistic sources. Diplomacy seems also increasingly useful, however you interpret it and wherever you stand politically. Because of the world's areas where Romance languages are mainly used, the political issues associated with those areas, and the lack of institutional support for studies in Romance languages, literatures, and linguistics in the United States, the ability of being diplomatic in navigating people, committees, donors, stakeholders, speakers, etc. is and will be important.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Viola Ardeni: Negotiate your job offer, even where your position is represented by a labor union (you may negotiate other perks and benefits). I would also recommend considering extremely carefully whether a higher degree in the field (master's or PhD) would enhance your options for a higher salary. The mental, emotional, and financial cost of graduate studies may not make it worth it, if the primary objective is earning more money.
Rachel Robinson-Zetzer PhD
Assistant Professor of the Practice and Assistant Director of Core WritingFairfield University
Rhetoric And Composition/Writing Studies
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Rachel Robinson-Zetzer PhD: People are scared of the blank page. Too often, they think that what they write needs to be perfect in its first iteration; however, that’s a myth and a romantic notion of the lone, solitary writer. In fact, much writing happens in collaboration with others, and people are either drawn to that environment, or they aren’t. Once people realize that writing is malleable, meaning it can be changed and revised again and again, that desire to seek perfection lessens, and Writers are more willing to kill their darlings.
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Amy Rogan: Many think that journalism is dying when in actuality is evolving. There are so many media sites out there that are not actual journalism and yet, our society needs real journalism now more than ever. Misinformation and disinformation spread so quickly, it contaminates the media landscape. But we need journalists willing to build their reputation and their audience so that trained professional journalists drown out the fiction or infotainment.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Amy Rogan: People working in journalism probably most dislike the hours and the pay but it’s truly one of the most rewarding fields to work in. It can be stressful but also exciting and challenging. Whether at the local level or a larger stage, it’s truly a service to your community to provide vital information.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dean Rader: Well, writing, reading, and communication skills are always going to be vital. AI won't change that. In fact, the very things AI can't do yet is be human. And no major trains people better to interact with humans than English. Right now, video game manufacturers need writers, tech companies need editors, Websites need copywriters. But, every field can use an English major. Every field needs people with vision and ideas. The world needs people with clarity, who can articulate ideas, and who can make connections. That defines an English major.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Dean Rader: There is an interesting study I saw recently that shows how humanities majors tend to start out with a lower beginning salary than most other fields. However, in five years, their salaries and their job satisfaction are higher than those from many other disciplines. English majors who can do another thing, who minor in marketing or who can do coding or Web design often have an easier time landing that first job. But, I also often recommend a graduate degree. That may sound counterintuitive given the reports out there about how college and graduate school admissions are plummeting; however, if fewer people are going to graduate school--especially in the humanities--there could very well be a deficit of people in the workforce with advanced training. If you can get an MBA or a JD or a master's without going into too much debt, research shows it pays off down the road.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Cook: Finding the human in what we do is critical. This is what humans can do that machines (like Generative AI platforms) simply can’t. I predict that being able to pinpoint the human element—and then build on it through creation and innovation—in a sea of AI-generated content will remain a marketable skill for decades to come.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Michael Pennell: Gain experience while in college, through internships, coursework, service, etc. Find your niche and differentiate yourself from others in the field. Consider how a specific minor or certificate may give you an edge. For example, a certificate or minor in professional and technical writing can enhance a candidate's appeal to employers, as well as maximize salary potential. Adding an internship and other 'real world' experience on top of that minor or certificate further maximizes one's earning potential. Develop a strong portfolio! Finally, networking may also maximize salary potential—do people know you and do they see you as an asset for their company or organization? Much of this advice applies equally to those pursuing freelance and contract work, as well.
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Professor Mac McKerral: Producing quality journalism is not easy. It’s hard work and requires a variety of skills, all of which contribute to quality journalism. The writing, reporting and editing must all be in balance and strong. Anyone can be a journalist these days. But not everyone should. Continue to learn on the job. Find a good mentor/editor and milk that individual for everything he or she can offer. If you want to write about yourself rather than others, seek a different career. Your first job might not be your ideal job, but it will be the ticket to your ideal job. Approach every assignment, regardless of how menial, as if it is the most important story ever. You cannot pick and choose what you want to do well. Anything you report will impact someone. Always remember that. Develop a visceral hate for mistakes. Know what your ethical line in the sand is before you are faced with an ethical conundrum. Understanding where you stand before making ethical decisions will enhance your chances of making the right choice.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jaswinder Bolina Ph.D., M.F.A.: As large-language model artificial intelligence permeates the marketplace, those with truly unique reading, writing, and analytical skills will become more important than ever. Most crucial will be the ability to quickly identify formulaic writing and thinking done by machines while offering vibrant, original, and human solutions to social, political, and economic problems. Your English major taught you how artful and inventive language can offer singular and vital perspective. Seek out that kind of language and insight. Relish every opportunity to produce it yourself.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Irena Praitis: English majors are excellent communicators, collaborators, and critical thinkers. Communication skills are highly sought as are skills for people working together. Graduates should emphasize their communication and critical thinking skills, emphasizing also creative thinking and working with and understanding others.
Dr. Arthur Garrison LP.D.
ProfessorKutztown University of Pennsylvania
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Arthur Garrison LP.D.: Don’t chase salary. Seek a job that will point you in the direction you want to go. Your first job is not your last. You have your whole life ahead of you. You don’t need to have all the answers to your life’s plans. You still have time to learn what you want in life and what you can achieve.
Associate Professor Thomas Franklin
Associate Professor, Multimedia JournalismMontclair State University
Radio, Television, And Digital Communication
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Associate Professor Thomas Franklin: In the media industry, making substantial income right from the start can be particularly challenging. However, by cultivating a strong network, seeking guidance from mentors and sources, and securing top internships, you can enhance your prospects of landing a position at a solid media outlet, where earning potential may be greater. I believe strongly in having several side hustles at all times. By maintaining side hustles, it can provide supplementary income and also be a way to nurture your passion if your main gig is not doing it for you. For early career professionals, I advocate prioritizing skill development and pursuing your passions, rather than fixating solely on monetary gain. Instead of focusing on immediate financial rewards, concentrate on gaining valuable experience and recognition for your work. While this may require patience, it ultimately lays a solid foundation for long-term success. In the grand scheme of things, prioritizing experience and long-term growth over immediate financial gain is solid advice when trying to build a sustainable career in the media industry.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Darren Phillips M.A.: First and foremost, I would advise journalists starting out to be curious and to read, read, and read some more. The best storytellers are voracious consumers of information — credible information — and they’re infinitely curious about world events, politics, history, and the like. Knowledge is power. It’s also marketability. Be an expert, or at least know enough about the wider world to be able to bring relevant context and nuance to your work. This requires you to read. For journalism students still in school, this also means taking elective courses in government and economics, geography, and other subjects outside your major that will help you make greater sense of complex topics. Reading and just a life-long commitment to learning are so important.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Darren Phillips M.A.: Maximizing salary potential as a media professional starts with everything I’ve already mentioned. Journalists and even PR and advertising professionals must be extremely well informed on a broad range of topics. This starts with reading and just being a voracious media consumer. This also requires one to think critically, to consume media from disparate sources, to not shy away from contrarian viewpoints, and to work hard and in good faith to synthesize information responsibly. This ties in with maintaining strict allegiance to industry best practices including media ethics. Reputation is everything. Make sure your employers, prospective employers, and clients all understand and appreciate your professional integrity and just your commitment to truth and accuracy. Moreover, embrace change, lean into technological change, and become a bit of a techno geek. Work hard making contacts and building a professional network. Work hard, generally. Hard work goes a long way in any vocation. Beyond that, attend industry conferences, pay close attention to your online presence, curate your social media profiles carefully and put some real time and thought into things like your LinkedIn profile and online portfolio. Lastly, don’t be put off by rejection. Rejection comes with the territory in any competitive career field. Believe in yourself, stay positive, stay open minded, learn all you can, read like crazy, keep grinding, and success will follow eventually.
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Chance Gamble: To maximize potential, minimize barriers. Don't limit yourself to whatever title and responsibilities you are given in an entry-level position or be confined by the expectations of others. When I was hired as the writer for a hedge fund, I knew nothing about investing, website development, or SEO. Most people would say I had no potential for that career. But I read, I thought, I wrote. Within a month, our key search terms pulled up the blog I created on Google's first page of results. An English program should cultivate in its students a character of curiosity, tenacity, and humane awareness at macro and micro levels. Live these qualities, and they will pay off.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Chance Gamble: More important? Confidence. When I graduated, I walked straight into a field of business I knew nothing about. I was later hired as a professional private tutor by a company that charged our clients $150 for an hour of my time. I believe that is because they saw I was confident that I could do whatever was asked of me. By confidence, I don't mean arrogance. Confidence is that peace that comes from knowing who you are, what you have accomplished, and how hard you will work to overcome future challenges. It is cultivated by a quality education, and it's authentic. In a meta-world of virtual realities where we can't trust the validity of the photos or videos we see, genuine, solid people will only increase in necessity and value. More prevalent? Creativity. Digital humanities is an exciting branch of academia exploring literature, composition, and rhetoric through digital mediums, and English majors are increasingly pushed to consider their interests through multiple modalities. As they move into the workforce, they will bring a blend of technological expertise and literary acumen that will be an explosive, distinct creativity in a world inundated by soulless AI generations.
Dr. Belo Cipriani
Metropolitan State University
Liberal Arts And Sciences, General Studies And Humanities
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Dr. Belo Cipriani: Students who take my courses graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. Many of them dream of working for large media companies and publications. I encourage them to in addition to applying to jobs with the big players, to also look at jobs with smaller organizations, as this will help them cast a wider net. I explain to them that by being open to working at a smaller business they will be shortening their job search. Moreover, I relate that many writers at major brands got their start with a lesser known company, but eventually found themselves with their dream employer.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Sanchez ACUE: Students will need to become more digital and Social Media savvy. As digital platforms continue to reshape how audiences consume news and information, digital and social media proficiency will be increasingly crucial. However, Multimedia Storytelling must be a cornerstone of our industry. Integrating multimedia elements such as video, audio, graphics, and interactive elements will become more prevalent in broadcast journalism. Professionals who can tell compelling stories using a combination of multimedia formats will be in high demand. I always encourage students to enroll in Data Visualization courses. The ability to extract meaningful insights from data and present them visually engagingly will help broadcasters provide deeper insights and context to their stories. We must remember Mobile Journalism (MoJo). Using your mobile devices to capture, edit, and publish news content will become a standard for journalists. Last but not least, journalists must build meaningful connections with audiences through interactive storytelling, live chats, audience polls, and user-generated content will become increasingly important. Broadcasters who can foster active engagement and dialogue with their audience will be able to cultivate loyal viewership and build community around their content.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Alfredo Sanchez ACUE: Let’s be honest. Your chances of becoming a millionaire in this broadcast industry are slim. Most recently graduated students in the news industry would likely move to a middle-of-nowhere market to start their careers. The pay will not be great, but the opportunities to gain valuable experience will be unique. However, there are some tips you should consider. For example, make sure you research the industry standards. Websites like Glassdoor, PayScale, or industry-specific salary surveys can provide valuable insights into salary ranges for different positions. Also, make sure that you highlight your skills and experience during your interview. Negotiate with confidence. Feel free to negotiate your salary offer. Remember that in addition to your salary, consider negotiating other benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, vacation time, and professional development opportunities. It would be best to stay updated on industry trends impacting the demand for specific skills and expertise. Networking with industry professionals, mentors, and colleagues can provide valuable insights into salary trends, job openings, and potential career advancement opportunities. Of course, you must be willing to relocate. In some cases, being open to relocating to markets with higher demand for broadcast professionals can increase your salary potential.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Antonio Byrd PhD (he/they): According to The Hamilton Project, the earning potential for English majors is the same as other majors. The best ways to maximize earnings potential is more education. An additional two-year master's degree will put English majors in a better position to maximize their earnings.
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Anna Mae Duane: The idea that English majors are not in demand is a myth—don’t harm your own chances by buying into it! There are numerous studies—and countless employer testimonies—that indicate how valuable your skills as an English major are. English majors consistently find work in a variety of fields, and perhaps even more important, alumni of English departments report that they find their jobs and lives rewarding. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 'what sets two equally qualified job candidates apart can be as simple as who has the better communication skills.' You are, in many ways, ahead of the game in comparison to others in your cohort. I’d also urge English majors to think broadly about their career options. Yes, fields like journalism, publishing and advertising all rely on the skills developed in English departments. But other employers, particularly in tech companies, have realized how valuable English majors can be to their organization. As a recent report in Fortune indicates, top executives in AI at IBM and elsewhere realize that having expertise in the Humanities is an essential component for success in their field.
Assistant Amy Eisman
Assistant ProfessorAmerican University
Arts, Entertainment, And Media Management
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Assistant Amy Eisman: One skill is easy: be flexible. The technology is changing at lightning speed. At the moment, it helps to be strong at data journalism and understanding emergent technology, such as AI. Topic areas of interest include climate coverage, health and education. It also helps to be a great team player; the speed of news means you rarely work alone. Overall, make sure you embrace the basics in the field: accuracy, fairness, transparency, independence and accountability. Be a solid writer and an even better editor and producer. No one can predict what is next for technology. Employers therefore will look for people who uphold the values of the past, are enthusiastic about the present and are curious about the future.
What Editor In Chief skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Assistant Amy Eisman: As others have said, the career track is a jungle gym, not a ladder. Acquire new skill sets wherever you go, then use them in the next job. And be great at whatever task you take on. Even if you are in an entry-level position, ace it, impress your colleagues, and be the person everyone wants on their team. The field is changing. That is not a secret. Many of the changes are overdue. There is more focus on trauma-informed reporting, for example, and on rethinking how we treat sources. There is more focus on bringing multiple voices into the fold and healthy debates about the role of identity. There is a deep focus, as there should be, on investigative journalism and on keeping citizens informed in a democracy. Be the best at your job. Don't burn bridges behind you.
What will help Editors In Chief increase their earning potential?
Assistant Amy Eisman: Too many people are reluctant to ask or negotiate salary. An employer will not rescind an offer if you ask; many expect you will. To get the next job, you have to be great at the one you are in. It also is good to keep potential employers in your corner with occasional updates about your successes.
What general advice would you give to an Editor In Chief?
Sarah Graves Ph.D.: Many wrongly assume that a degree in English is a dead end. But that's only because the career potential isn't as immediately obvious as something like, say, a degree in computer science or accounting. The truth is that English majors can do almost anything. Of course, they can become teachers or enter writing-related fields, such as journalism, editing, or publishing. But tons of CEOs are English majors, as are those in business-related fields, such as marketing, brand strategy, and social media management. Even most tech companies hire English majors. That's because computer science majors might be experts in coding, but English majors excel at humanizing the end product, like making chatbots sound more human. In fact, the areas where English majors excel are those most in-demand by employers: communication, creativity, critical thinking, and empathy.