Editors Salary 2025: Median $77,920, Top Earners Hit $153,700
The median annual wage for editors in the United States is $77,920, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That's about $37 per hour. The typical range runs from $41,250 at the 10th percentile to $153,700 at the 90th. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
How much Editors earn
The national average salary for editors is $90,060 per year, but half earn less than the median of $77,920. The bottom 10% earn under $41,250, while the top 10% bring in more than $153,700. Pay depends heavily on industry, location, and experience.
Editors in publishing, technical writing, and management tend to earn more. Those at newspapers or small presses may start lower. The BLS reports roughly 91,690 editors worked in the U.S. in 2024.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying states for editors are New York ($101,480), California ($98,030), Connecticut ($85,950), District of Columbia ($83,920), and Massachusetts ($83,170). These areas have a concentration of publishing houses, media companies, and tech firms.
On the other end, editors in Wyoming ($46,710), Nebraska ($46,320), and Texas ($45,950) earn significantly less. Keep in mind cost of living: a Texas editor might keep more of that $45,950 than a New York editor does from $101,480.
How to become Editor
Most editors have a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field. A year or two of experience as a writer, copyeditor, or proofreader is typical. Certification is voluntary but can help—organizations like the American Copy Editors Society offer credentials.
The path often starts with an internship or entry-level job at a publisher, newspaper, or digital media company. Building a strong portfolio of edited work is key. Some editors move into the role after working as writers; others start as editorial assistants.
- Get a bachelor's degree (English, journalism, communications).
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level writing/proofreading roles.
- Build a portfolio of edited samples.
- Consider voluntary certification (e.g., from ACES).
- Apply for editorial assistant or associate editor positions.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for editors will grow 0.6% from 2024 to 2034—slower than the average for all occupations. That means roughly 9,800 openings per year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Competition is strong, especially in traditional publishing, but digital content and self-publishing create some opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary of an editor in 2025?
The median annual wage is $77,920, with a mean of $90,060. Top earners make over $153,700.
Which states pay editors the most?
New York ($101,480), California ($98,030), Connecticut ($85,950), D.C. ($83,920), and Massachusetts ($83,170).
Is editing a growing career?
Growth is very slow at 0.6% over 2024–2034, but about 9,800 openings yearly exist due to turnover.
Do I need a degree to become an editor?
A bachelor's degree is typical, usually in English, journalism, or communications. Experience and a portfolio are key.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Editors data.