Media and Communication Workers, All Other: Salary Guide 2025 ($73,620 median)
The median salary for Media and Communication Workers, All Other hit $73,620 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's roughly $35 per hour, with the highest-paid workers earning over $134,000. The occupation covers a broad range of roles that don't fit neatly into other media categories—think podcast producers, social media strategists, or corporate communications specialists.
How much Media and Communication Workers, All Other earn
The national median wage of $73,620 means half of these workers earn more, half less. The average (mean) wage is slightly higher at $83,860, pulled up by top earners. The bottom 10% make $39,120 or less, while the top 10% take home $134,270 or more.
Your paycheck depends heavily on industry. While BLS doesn't break out sub-industry detail for this broad category, workers in specialized communication roles typically outearn generalists. Experience and location also drive big differences.
- Median hourly wage: $35.40
- 10th percentile: $39,120
- 90th percentile: $134,270
Pay by state
California leads with an average wage of $102,630, nearly $20,000 above the national mean. New York ($81,110) and Rhode Island ($72,830) also pay above the median. At the bottom, Kentucky ($39,050), Indiana ($34,350), and Arkansas ($32,280) pay roughly half of California's rates.
If you're willing to move, target coastal states or metro areas with dense media industries. Remote work options, widespread in this field, may let you capture higher pay while living in a lower-cost area.
How to become Media and Communication Workers, All Other
Most workers enter with a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, media studies, or a related field. Because the category covers diverse roles, many specialize through internships or portfolio work. Some roles—like corporate communications or social media management—may accept an associate degree plus experience.
Licenses or certifications are generally not required, but industry-specific credentials (e.g., HubSpot certifications for digital marketing, or Adobe certifications for production roles) can sharpen your resume. Entry-level jobs often start at around $39,000–$45,000, climbing with experience.
- Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in a communications field.
- Step 2: Complete internships in your target area (e.g., podcasting, social media, PR).
- Step 3: Build a portfolio of work samples.
- Step 4: Apply to roles like media coordinator, content producer, or communications specialist.
Job outlook
Employment in this broad occupation is projected to grow 2.7% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 3,000 job openings each year, many from workers retiring or changing roles.
The 19,590 workers currently employed in this category face steady demand as companies continue investing in digital content, social media, and corporate communication. However, competition for top jobs will be strong, especially in high-paying markets.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Media and Communication Worker, All Other do?
This catch-all occupation includes media and communication roles that don't fit standard categories. Typical jobs include social media coordinator, podcast producer, corporate communications specialist, or multimedia content creator.
Is $73,620 a good salary for this field?
It depends on your location and experience. Nationally, the median exceeds the U.S. all-occupations median. In high-cost states like California or New York, it's closer to average, while in low-cost states like Arkansas it's well above typical wages.
Do Media and Communication Workers, All Other need a degree?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or a related field. However, demonstrated skills and a strong portfolio can sometimes substitute for formal education, especially in digital or creative roles.
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 Media and Communication Workers, All Other data.