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Job outlook for publicity writers in the United States
Are publicity writer jobs in demand?
Publicity writer job and salary trends over time
Publicity writer jobs over time
Publicity writer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 167 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 168 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 168 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 164 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 161 | 0.00% |
Average publicity writer salary over time
Publicity writer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $55,347 | $26.61 | +2.7% |
| 2025 | $53,884 | $25.91 | +1.9% |
| 2024 | $52,871 | $25.42 | +1.2% |
| 2023 | $52,254 | $25.12 | +2.2% |
| 2022 | $51,126 | $24.58 | +2.2% |
Publicity writer jobs by state
Most common states for publicity writers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 141 | 20% |
| 2 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 288 | 5% |
| 3 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 307 | 4% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 262 | 4% |
| 5 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 23 | 4% |
| 6 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 143 | 3% |
| 7 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 94 | 3% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 26 | 3% |
| 9 | Vermont | 623,657 | 21 | 3% |
| 10 | Alaska | 739,795 | 19 | 3% |
| 11 | California | 39,536,653 | 775 | 2% |
| 12 | New York | 19,849,399 | 340 | 2% |
| 13 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 227 | 2% |
| 14 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 189 | 2% |
| 15 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 177 | 2% |
| 16 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 111 | 2% |
| 17 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 109 | 2% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 41 | 2% |
| 19 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 28 | 2% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 26 | 2% |
Most common cities for publicity writers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $45,660 |
| 2 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $62,787 |
| 3 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $53,952 |
| 4 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $47,282 |
| 5 | Miami | 1 | 0% | $41,405 |
| 6 | Minneapolis | 1 | 0% | $54,284 |
| 7 | Phoenix | 1 | 0% | $56,986 |
| 8 | Saint Petersburg | 1 | 0% | $41,172 |
Publicity Writer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of publicity writer experts
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
SUNY College at Oswego
Fairfield University
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
The University of the Arts
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
University of Richmond
Saint Anselm College
Indiana University Kokomo
University of Miami
California State University - Fullerton
American University
Metropolitan State University
Ohio Wesleyan University
Pepperdine University
Texas State University
What will help Publicity Writers 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 general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
Laura Wilson: Writing and editing will always be important and prevalent. Clear communication is increasingly important. Encourage writers to work WITH AI by learning how to use the software and edit the output. Encourage exploration of certificates to make them more marketable.
What general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
Soma Frazier: AI can do a lot of things writers do, and quickly. It's mastered the hard skills of writing, but it's not yet proficient in the soft skills: in short, it's not human. So, I think soft skills like applying context, nuance and audience awareness to the tone of written work will become evermore crucial.
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 a Publicity Writer?
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 Publicity Writer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rachel Robinson-Zetzer PhD: Writing is a great profession to enter now because it’s a way to reach a specific audience for a specific purpose. With all the misinformation in the world today, Writers have a lot of power. It’s an exciting time to let your voice be heard, whether that’s through fiction, newswriting, memoir, cartoon, or something else.
What Publicity Writer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Allison Rittmayer: Don't undercut your skills and experience. You are likely qualified for more jobs than you think you are. You need to promote your experience writing in different genres and across media. Likewise, don't be afraid to take on new projects in unfamiliar formats or unfamiliar roles. That is the key to continual growth.
What Publicity Writer 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 general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
Michael Pennell: Find or develop your niche and consider your strengths and weaknesses. What can or do you do that others don't or can't? Why and what would someone ask your advice on or for your input on a question or concern? What is your expertise? Embark on your career with a 5- and 10-year goal or lifestyle in sight. How does this job or career help you target that lifestyle? What skills or experience do you need, and can you get those from the current job? Also, network, both with those inside and outside of your specific field. Generally, breaking through the barrier to your first job may be the toughest stage; after that, more opportunities will appear, especially if you consider how that first job can position you for next move.
What will help Publicity Writers 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.
Liam Callanan
professor, EnglishUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
English Language And Literature
What Publicity Writer 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 Publicity Writers 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.
Justin Wigard
Postdoctoral Research FellowUniversity of Richmond
Rhetoric And Composition/Writing Studies
What general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
Justin Wigard: Think big and be open to new opportunities. Written communication is present in all fields, so the writing skills you obtain can translate across disciplines and professional contexts. Having some experience with digital tools or data science, even just a little bit, will allow you to combine your qualitative writing experiences with quantitative approaches.
Dr. Joshua Potter
Assistant Professor of PracticeSaint Anselm College
English Language And Literature
What will help Publicity Writers 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 Publicity Writers 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 Publicity Writer 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 will help Publicity Writers 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 Publicity Writer 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.
What will help Publicity Writers 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.
Dr. Belo Cipriani
Metropolitan State University
Liberal Arts And Sciences, General Studies And Humanities
What will help Publicity Writers 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 general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
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.
What Publicity Writer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Anna Mae Duane: Strong communication skills, built on a capacity to imagine a variety of perspectives, will be of even more importance as the job market develops. Further, the wide range of skills you learn—close reading, precise writing, and the capacity to engage in complex conversations about sometimes difficult topics—are going to be in increasing demand in a job market that needs to be creative about how it builds and maintains vibrant teams.
What will help Publicity Writers increase their earning potential?
Anna Mae Duane: In this respect, I think the advice remains the same no matter what your major. Make sure you have a sense of what a competitive rate is, and negotiate for what you’re worth up front. I’d also recommend that you make sure that your employers know that you are eager to advance, and then take the initiative to show up as a leader whenever possible.
What general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
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.
What will help Publicity Writers increase their earning potential?
Sarah Graves Ph.D.: As technology continues to move at a rapid pace, the most important skills will be those that make us irreplaceable by robots. As mentioned, these include the very human traits of empathy, creativity, and critical thinking. As I frequently explain to my students, A.I. is becoming increasingly better at writing an essay. But A.I. can't think for us. We're the only ones that can apply our own critical analysis to ideas. And English majors are taught to think critically about a variety of topics. Additionally, as writers, we have the ability to respond to, reframe, and reshape the world around us, something a computer program can never do.
What general advice would you give to a Publicity Writer?
Lisa Smith Ph.D.: Despite the new prevalence of artificial intelligence and what that technology means for the workplace, talented writers will always be in demand. To maximize your opportunities in the field of writing, diversify your undergraduate coursework as much as possible, taking classes in professional writing, creative writing, technical writing, and academic/expositional writing. If opportunities for internships exist, take advantage of those, along with embracing writing courses that include a service-learning component in which you work with a corporation or non-profit organization that needs writing expertise. In job interviews, highlight your critical thinking skills, share about writing projects you have done that incorporated many different kinds of writing skills and/or required collaboration, and emphasize your ability to make complex ideas clear and accessible. At the entry-level stage of your career, take all opportunities offered to you and be an encouraging, contributing team player.
What will help Publicity Writers increase their earning potential?
Lisa Smith Ph.D.: Highlight the skills you are already proficient in, such as critical thinking, creating engaging content, or working with others. Be open to writing in fields you may not have originally envisioned as a potential avenue of work for you, such as business writing or technical writing. Emphasize any writing you have done for the web and social media that has engaged a diverse or extensive audience. Highlight how a writing degree allows you to develop a range of communication skills during an undergraduate program, and share any experience you have with using AI for crafting the best text possible.
Dr. Randall Osborne Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology Honorary Professor of International StudiesTexas State University
Psychology
What Publicity Writer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Randall Osborne Ph.D.: Be aware that you will likely not find a job ad reading “wanted, Liberal Arts Major!” As such, you have to be flexible in thinking about what jobs are available – like running a research trial for a set of doctors, or getting involved in Personnel selection. Be ready to advocate for what you can do for an employer. Recognize your skill set! Liberal Arts majors are known to have the following skills that also match up with the skills most often cited by business leaders as the most sought after in their employees: Writing, Speaking, Foreign languages and cross-cultural knowledge, Numeracy, Research and information retrieval, Analytical thinking, Creative thinking, Effective with ambiguity, Learning and synthesizing new ideas. Know that you have these skills, have ready examples of courses you took, projects you did and experiences you had that honed these skills and gave you a chance to use them.