Copy Editor Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Copy Editor make?

The average salary for a Copy Editor is $55,291 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,291 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,291 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,291 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,291 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

A copy editor works hard to make sure that written content is clear and error-free. For those considering this career, it's important to know about the potential earnings. The average yearly salary for a copy editor is about $55,291. This can vary based on several factors, including experience and location.

Copy editors can earn a wide range of salaries. For example, the lower end might start around $30,000, while the higher end can reach up to $120,000. Most copy editors fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $46,364 and $79,091 per year. These numbers show that with more experience and skill, the salary can increase.

What are the highest paying cities for a Copy Editor?

Looking for a high-paying copy editor job? Philadelphia, PA, offers the highest average salary at $93,979. Close behind are San Francisco, CA, and Washington, DC, both with competitive salaries. Job seekers should also consider cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Nashville, where salaries remain strong.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting Philadelphia, PA with the highest at $93,979 and Phoenix, AZ with the lowest at $39,884.

Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $93,979
Philadelphia offers a thriving media scene with plenty of opportunities for editors. Companies like Comcast and the Philadelphia Inquirer provide exciting career paths. The city’s rich history adds a unique touch to every editorial task.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $79,964
In San Francisco, tech giants and media companies create a vibrant job market for editors. Companies like Salesforce and Chronicle Books offer innovative environments. Working here means being at the forefront of digital publishing.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $79,542
Washington, DC, is home to numerous political publications and media outlets. Working for companies like Politico or The Washington Post allows editors to influence public opinion. The city’s dynamic atmosphere fuels creativity in editorial work.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $73,555
Los Angeles boasts a bustling entertainment industry that offers diverse opportunities for editors. Companies like Lionsgate and Variety provide exciting career prospects. The city’s vibrant culture reflects in the creative editorial content.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $73,399
Chicago’s media landscape is rich with opportunities for editors. Companies such as Tribune Publishing and DNAinfo offer dynamic career paths. The city’s vibrant arts scene enhances the editorial experience.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $62,100
Nashville offers a unique blend of music and media opportunities for editors. Working with companies like The Tennessean or Nashville Scene provides a distinct editorial experience. The city’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $52,115
Columbus has a growing media market with opportunities for editors at companies like Dispatch and Battelle. The city’s friendly environment makes it a great place for professional growth. The smaller size allows for closer collaboration with colleagues.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $39,884
Phoenix offers a growing job market for editors with companies like The Arizona Republic. The city’s warm climate and expanding industries provide a dynamic work environment. There are plenty of opportunities for those looking to build a career in media.
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What are the best companies a Copy Editor can work for?

Companies like Amplify Education, Inc. and CELLA offer top-notch salaries for copy editors. Amplify Education, Inc. pays an average of $85,000, while CELLA offers around $65,828. This makes them great options for those seeking higher compensation. Another company, Williams Lea, offers $40,176, and RR Donnelley follows with $36,781. These figures highlight where the best opportunities may lie for copy editors.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting Amplify Education, Inc. with the highest at $85,000 and RR Donnelley with the lowest at $36,781.

Amplify Education, Inc.
Average Salary: $85,000
Amplify Education, Inc. offers rewarding Copy Editor positions. They focus on educational content. Their offices are in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and professional growth opportunities.
CELLA
Average Salary: $65,828
CELLA provides exciting Copy Editor roles. They work in marketing and communications. Locations include Washington, D.C., and San Francisco. CELLA values creativity and teamwork, making it a great place to work.
Williams Lea
Average Salary: $40,176
Williams Lea offers Copy Editor jobs with competitive pay. They handle a variety of content. Their offices are in Dallas and Atlanta. Employees benefit from a collaborative atmosphere and flexible work options.
RR Donnelley
Average Salary: $36,781
RR Donnelley provides Copy Editor positions with a solid salary. They focus on print and digital media. Locations include Denver and Austin. RR Donnelley supports continuous learning and career advancement.

How to earn more as a Copy Editor?

To increase earnings as a copy editor, several key factors play a role. Building expertise and gaining experience can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Specialization in a specific field, such as legal or medical writing, often commands a higher rate. Networking with professionals and joining relevant associations can open doors to better-paying jobs. Continuous learning through courses and certifications helps stay updated with industry trends. Seeking freelance or contract work provides additional income streams.

Employers value copy editors who demonstrate attention to detail and a strong command of grammar and style. Improving these skills can lead to better job offers. Using tools and software efficiently can speed up the editing process, allowing for more projects and higher pay. Effective communication with clients and understanding their needs can result in long-term contracts. Being proactive in seeking out new projects and expanding one's portfolio can lead to increased earning potential.

Here are some ways to earn more as a copy editor:

Gain relevant experience and expertise
Specialize in a specific field
Network and join professional associations
Pursue continuous learning and certifications
Seek freelance and contract opportunities

How much does a Copy Editor make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Copy Editor?

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

How to earn more as a Copy Editor?

Currently 45 Copy Editor job openings, nationwide.

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

Win at hiring.