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Job outlook for online editors in the United States
Online editor job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected online editor job growth rate is -5% from 2018-2028.
About -5,500 new jobs for online editors are projected over the next decade.
Online editor salaries have increased 11% for online editors in the last 5 years.
There are over 25,716 online editors currently employed in the United States.
There are 5,474 active online editor job openings in the US.
The average online editor salary is $57,023.
Are online editor jobs in demand?
Online editor job and salary trends over time
Online editor jobs over time
Online editor job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 25,716 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 27,046 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 27,799 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 27,735 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 28,066 | 0.01% |
Average online editor salary over time
Online editor salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $57,023 | $27.41 | +3.3% |
| 2024 | $55,197 | $26.54 | +3.2% |
| 2023 | $53,497 | $25.72 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $52,858 | $25.41 | +2.7% |
| 2021 | $51,455 | $24.74 | +2.1% |
Online editor jobs by state
Most common states for online editors
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 92 | 13% |
| 2 | Vermont | 623,657 | 23 | 4% |
| 3 | Delaware | 961,939 | 29 | 3% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 24 | 3% |
| 5 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 18 | 3% |
| 6 | New York | 19,849,399 | 488 | 2% |
| 7 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 164 | 2% |
| 8 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 109 | 2% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 89 | 2% |
| 10 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 64 | 2% |
| 11 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 31 | 2% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 26 | 2% |
| 13 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 21 | 2% |
| 14 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 17 | 2% |
| 15 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 16 | 2% |
| 16 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 16 | 2% |
| 17 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 16 | 2% |
| 18 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 104 | 1% |
| 19 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 88 | 1% |
| 20 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 19 | 1% |
Most common cities for online editors
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Platte | 1 | 4% | $32,874 |
Online Editor job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of online editor experts
California State University - Sacramento
SUNY College at Oswego
Utah State University
University of San Francisco
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
University of Richmond
Ursinus College
Saint Anselm College
Indiana University Kokomo
University of Miami
California State University - Fullerton
American University
York College of Pennsylvania
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Dallas Baptist University
University of Baltimore
University of Missouri - Kansas City
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Dr. Terry Nugent: Despite evolving AI technology, effective communication requires an understanding of the rhetorical situation and how language works. That being said, learning to use both current and emerging technology will be critical as writing will increasingly incorporate mixed media and be published in digital form. Familiarity with both Google and Microsoft based programs, graphic designing and editing tools, and tools for creating charts, graphs, and infographics will be critical. Additionally, graduates will need to hone their teamworking and collaborative skills since almost all work requires working with diverse groups which leads to a final skillset that should be developed. Businesses often operate on a global level requiring employees to be able to work closely with diverse cultures therefore, some knowledge of linguistics will be very helpful.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Nicole Walker: English majors make it clear what's going on in other disciplines, in other sectors, in other businesses, and in government and politics. We are the great connectors between people and between ideas.
Viola Ardeni
Assistant Professor & Italian Language Area HeadCalifornia State University - Sacramento
Romance Languages, Literatures, And Linguistics
What general advice would you give to an Online Editor?
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 Online Editor 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 Online Editors 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.
What Online Editor skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Soma Frazier: Take on a variety of jobs. For instance, while teaching and writing creative works, I was also freelancing and writing grants. In doing so, I developed multiple income sources as well as a broad skill base that ultimately equipped me to secure higher-paying opportunities. Beyond that, each job shaped my creative writing: crafting pithy articles taught me to revise down, while developing grant proposals taught me to make a specific mission or topic feel relevant to the everyday reader. You may hit the jackpot and land your dream career straight out of school. If you're like the rest of us, though, there will be a period of uncertainty in which you're building your portfolio and finding your stride. That's the perfect time to take a note from improv comedians and be receptive to opportunities and ideas by saying 'Yes.'
What general advice would you give to an Online Editor?
Shane Graham: Remember the skills you honed as an English major: pay close attention to detail, ground your thinking in evidence, find reliable sources of information, and put things in their larger context. All of these skills will serve you well in whatever job you pursue.
What Online Editor 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.
Liam Callanan
professor, EnglishUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
English Language And Literature
What Online Editor skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Liam Callanan: Writing, writing, writing. And in whole sentences. Not like these. Communication will be key in every field, and people who are trained to be critical thinkers, who practice good listening, who write clearly, concisely, and thoughtfully, will be highly valued.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Liam Callanan: Read. Read everything, including, especially, things on paper—books, magazines, newspapers. Paper-based reading exercises your focus muscles and broadens your mind.
Prof. Laura Betz PhD
Associate Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in EnglishWhat general advice would you give to an Online Editor?
Prof. Laura Betz PhD: Please use the skills I mentioned in my bolded quote as my answer for this question.
Justin Wigard
Postdoctoral Research FellowUniversity of Richmond
Rhetoric And Composition/Writing Studies
What Online Editor skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Justin Wigard: Critical textual analysis is key. With a degree in writing, you’ll be able to parse multiple forms of writing effectively: grants, data reports, creative works, and more! You’ll be prepared to work with anything that conveys information through written form (digitally, verbally, even visually). Digital writing, rhetoric, and publishing is also going to become increasingly prevalent as our world becomes more digitally connected. So, learning the ins and outs of writing is great, but you will become even more proficient if you have a little bit of experience working with digital projects. Programming, data science, basic web design, or proficiency with digital publishing suites will give you more understanding of how to write and create in a technologically-mediated world.
Jay Shelat
Ursinus College
English Language And Literature
What general advice would you give to an Online Editor?
Jay Shelat: Remember that your major in college does not guarantee you a job. Instead, the skills you've learned in your time as an English major will. You're an expert in writing and analysis for any job. Use that to your advantage to understand how places run, what tasks you need to complete, and why they matter.
Dr. Joshua Potter
Assistant Professor of PracticeSaint Anselm College
English Language And Literature
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Dr. Joshua Potter: Follow your passion, use your intuition, and be creative. A humanistic education, especially within the discipline of English, prepares you to be a clear communicator, critical thinker, empathic builder of relationships, and creative wayfinder through shifting cultural landscapes. It is imperative to stay nimble, assert oneself into social institutions and fields of work that stoke one’s inspiration, and be prepared to help build fields and institutions that don’t yet exist.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Jim Coby: A degree in English does not necessarily provide you with a 1 to 1 employment opportunity. Unlike, say, engineering students, who will most likely move into engineering as an occupation, English majors do not necessarily end up English teachers. Many do, but most don't. Instead, it's useful to think of your employment search more broadly. If you've taken a number of classes in literary studies, then you're likely skilled in locating several points of evidence and making strong arguments with that evidence. You're going to be taking those skills in order to make a case for yourself. Think on the skills you've gained over the years, how you developed those skills, examples of time when you employed those skills, and ways you can improve those skills. Considering yourself as a fully fleshed out "round" character (akin to those you've read so much about) in your own storyline may well help you to conceive of novel and interesting employment opportunities.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Jaswinder Bolina Ph.D., M.F.A.: If you were an English major in college, you’re probably an excellent reader, writer, researcher, and learner. The start of your career is a great time to demonstrate your skills as a quick study and an adaptive thinker. Take a deep dive into whatever company or sector you’re working in, reading everything you can get your hands on, while identifying the challenges your employer needs help with. Then, sort out how to help. If you’re still on the job market, showcase those exceptional writing skills in crafting a thoughtful, unique, and enthusiastic application letter and portfolio. Be unique and set yourself apart from every other job applicant you’re up against.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Irena Praitis: Always ask for the top of the salary range offered. Stress that the skills you bring will strengthen and grow as you learn and adapt to a particular organization's work environment.
What general advice would you give to an Online Editor?
Chelsea Horne Ph.D.: Use and develop the skills you have already gained during your degree. And be on the lookout for opportunities to continue expanding your skill toolkit, such as professional development workshops, certificates, and graduate programs (like the innovative MA in Literature, Culture, and Technology we offer at American University), where you can further hone expertise that can make you stand out. We are at a moment full of potential; maintaining flexibility and supporting the expansion of your skillsets can help you maximize your position.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Chelsea Horne Ph.D.: It is important to remember that even if this moment feels daunting and uncertain, you are at a very exciting stage of your life and career. Think about all your options and possibilities and focus on where and how you want to contribute to the world through your writing and profession. As you step into your career, consider building your network: at your workplace, with alumni groups, and with industry professionals. A strong network can offer opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, development, and more.
What will help Online Editors increase their earning potential?
Dr. Gabriel Cutrufello: *Recent college graduates looking to enter the writing field can maximize their early career salary potential by demonstrating the hard and soft skills they have developed during their degree work. Portfolios that show what one can already do on the job successfully help make the argument for a higher starting salary. Early career writers should also look for ways to develop their skill sets and take advantage of further education opportunities like micro-credentials and workshops. Furthermore, they should continue looking for new challenges with their employer to help them develop and showcase these skills.*
Dr. Arthur Garrison LP.D.
ProfessorKutztown University of Pennsylvania
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What Online Editor 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.
What will help Online Editors 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.
What Online Editor skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Betsy Boyd: Become the best writer and communicator you can possibly be. By reading and writing as often as possible. By taking notes. By staying excited about your own perspective and the good work of others. Going back to school can be a good way to strengthen your abilities, gain community support, and earn an advanced degree that commands a higher salary.
What Online Editor 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.