Position
Salary

How much does a Copy Editor make?

The average salary for a Copy Editor is $58,003 per year in the US.

A Copy Editor has an important job in making sure that written content is clear and free of errors. This work can be found in many places, including newspapers, magazines, and websites. The average yearly salary for a Copy Editor is about $58,003. This means they earn a good income for their efforts in ensuring quality in written materials.

The salary for a Copy Editor can vary based on several factors. These factors can include experience, location, and the type of employer. For example, those with more experience may earn more than those just starting in the field. Also, Copy Editors in big cities might earn more than those in smaller towns. With the right skills and dedication, Copy Editors can look forward to a rewarding career with good earnings.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Copy Editor?

Job seekers interested in Copy Editor positions can find some of the best pay in Philadelphia, PA. With an average salary of $96,479, it leads the way. Close behind are San Francisco, CA, and Washington, DC, offering $90,420 and $84,035, respectively. In addition to these cities, Chicago, IL, and Los Angeles, CA, also provide competitive salaries. Chicago offers an average of $74,027, while Los Angeles has a salary of $72,320. Exploring these cities can enhance a job seeker's chances of securing a high-paying Copy Editor role.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting Philadelphia, PA with the highest at $96,479 and Pittsburgh, PA with the lowest at $40,051.
  1. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $96,479
    In Philadelphia, working as an editor can mean refining work for major media outlets. The city hosts companies like Comcast and The Philadelphia Inquirer, offering diverse editing opportunities.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $90,420
    San Francisco offers a vibrant atmosphere for editors with tech giants like Google and Salesforce needing polished content. The city’s fast-paced environment suits those who thrive under pressure.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $84,035
    As an editor in Washington, DC, expect to work with prominent publications such as The Washington Post. The city’s political scene offers unique content for editing, enriching professional experience.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $74,027
    Chicago provides a rich environment for editors, with media companies like Tribune Publishing seeking skilled professionals. The city’s cultural diversity adds depth to editorial work.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $72,320
    In Los Angeles, editors can find opportunities at major film studios and media houses. The entertainment industry's fast pace ensures a dynamic and engaging work environment.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $62,568
    Nashville offers a unique blend of country music and publishing. Editors here work with prominent music magazines, providing a creative and inspiring work atmosphere.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Nashville, TN


  7. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $56,364
    Orlando’s tourism industry creates a demand for skilled editors. Companies like Disney and Universal Studios require polished content, offering exciting editing roles.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Orlando, FL


  8. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $52,121
    In Columbus, editors can work with regional newspapers and media outlets. The city’s growing tech scene offers diverse editing opportunities, appealing to tech-savvy professionals.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Columbus, OH


  9. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $40,093
    Phoenix presents a growing market for editors, with companies in healthcare and tech needing clear, concise content. The city’s warm climate adds a pleasant work environment.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  10. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $40,051
    Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of industry and media, with companies like PBS and various tech startups seeking skilled editors. The city’s strong community feel adds to the work environment.
    Find Copy Editor jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

What are the best companies a Copy Editor can work for?

IPG Health leads the way with the highest average salary for Copy Editor jobs at $119,615 annually. Following closely, Amplify Education, Inc. offers an average salary of $85,000. CELLA, Epiq, and RR Donnelley also provide competitive salaries, though slightly lower. These companies value clear, concise communication and offer good benefits to attract top talent. Aspiring copy editors should consider these employers when looking for rewarding career opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting IPG Health with the highest at $119,615 and RR Donnelley with the lowest at $35,806.
  1. IPG Health
    Average Salary: $119,615
    IPG Health offers exciting opportunities for Copy Editors across various locations. They focus on health communication and provide a dynamic work environment. Key locations include New York, London, and Mumbai.


  2. Amplify Education, Inc.
    Average Salary: $85,000
    Amplify Education, Inc. values skilled Copy Editors who can enhance their educational content. This company operates in multiple states across the US, including California and Texas. They support professional growth and offer competitive pay.


  3. CELLA
    Average Salary: $67,602
    CELLA seeks talented Copy Editors to join their team in various markets. They provide a collaborative atmosphere and opportunities for career advancement. Key locations include Chicago, Seattle, and Denver.


  4. Epiq
    Average Salary: $51,219
    Epiq offers Copy Editor positions with a focus on legal and e-discovery services. They operate in major cities like Washington, D.C., and New York. Epiq values attention to detail and offers a supportive work environment.


  5. RR Donnelley
    Average Salary: $35,806
    RR Donnelley provides diverse roles for Copy Editors across several locations. They focus on print and digital media, with key offices in Chicago, Cincinnati, and Los Angeles. RR Donnelley offers a chance to work on various high-profile projects.

How to earn more as a Copy Editor?

A Copy Editor can take several steps to increase their earnings. By enhancing certain skills and gaining specific types of experience, it is possible to advance in this career. A solid understanding of grammar and style guides helps a Copy Editor deliver polished work. Attention to detail ensures that errors are caught and corrected, leading to higher-quality output.

Specializing in a particular industry can also lead to higher pay. Industries such as law and medicine often require very specific language and terminology, making specialized knowledge valuable. Networking and building connections within the industry can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Continuous learning and keeping up with the latest trends and technologies in editing software can further boost earning potential. Finally, gaining experience and building a strong portfolio can help a Copy Editor command higher rates for their services.

To maximize earnings, consider the following factors:

  • Specialized Knowledge: Knowledge in specific industries or fields can lead to higher-paying jobs.
  • Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest editing tools and techniques can increase efficiency and value.
  • Networking: Building connections in the industry can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
  • Portfolio Development: A strong portfolio showcasing quality work can help in commanding higher rates.
  • Experience: Gaining more experience can lead to promotions and better-paying positions.

Currently 75 Copy Editor job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Copy Editor in the US?

Learn what a Copy Editor does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Copy Editor today.
Position
Overview
Copy Editor
75 Job Openings