Public Relations Specialist Salary 2025: $74,750 Median, 4.8% Growth
The median annual salary for Public Relations Specialists in the United States is $74,750, with a mean wage of $84,120 (about $36 per hour). The typical range stretches from $44,110 at the 10th percentile to $135,150 at the 90th percentile. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest OEWS data, updated for 2025.
How much Public Relations Specialists earn
Half of all PR specialists earn between $44,110 and $135,150, with the median hitting $74,750. The average hourly wage works out to roughly $36.
Pay varies by industry. PR specialists in corporate communications or tech often land on the high end, while those at nonprofits or small agencies may earn less. Experience and location matter most.
Pay by state
Location drives big differences. The District of Columbia tops the list at $102,740, followed by Washington ($87,470), California ($85,030), Connecticut ($84,990), and New York ($81,250). At the bottom, Mississippi averages $59,810, Pennsylvania $57,460, and West Virginia $56,730.
If you’re willing to move, a shift from West Virginia to D.C. could mean nearly doubling your salary. But cost of living matters—California’s high pay comes with expensive housing.
How to become a Public Relations Specialist
Most PR specialist jobs require a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field. Internships during college are critical for building a portfolio and making connections.
Certification is optional but helpful. The Universal Accreditation Board offers the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential, which can boost your resume. State licensing is not required.
- Get a bachelor’s degree in PR, communications, or journalism.
- Complete at least one internship in a PR agency or corporate communications department.
- Build a portfolio of press releases, media kits, and social media campaigns.
- Consider earning the APR certification after a few years of experience.
- Entry-level roles often start as assistant or coordinator; expect 1–3 years before advancing to specialist.
Job outlook
Employment of Public Relations Specialists is projected to grow 4.8% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The field currently has 283,380 jobs, with about 27,600 openings each year due to growth and replacements.
Demand comes from organizations needing to manage their image, handle crises, and engage through digital media. Competition remains strong for top positions, but steady opportunities exist across industries.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for Public Relations Specialists?
The 10th percentile earns $44,110, the median is $74,750, and the 90th percentile makes $135,150, according to the BLS.
What degree do you need to become a Public Relations Specialist?
A bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field is the standard requirement.
How fast is the job market growing for PR specialists?
The BLS projects 4.8% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 27,600 job openings yearly.
Which states pay Public Relations Specialists the most?
The highest-paying states are D.C. ($102,740), Washington ($87,470), California ($85,030), Connecticut ($84,990), and New York ($81,250).
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 Public Relations Specialists data.