Copy Editor Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Copy Editor make?

The average salary for a Copy Editor is $55,736 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,736 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,736 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,736 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Copy Editor positions, showing an average salary of $55,736 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

A Copy Editor can expect to earn a solid salary. On average, Copy Editors make about $55,736 a year. This number can change based on where someone works and how much experience they have. Here are some details on what to expect:

Copy Editors often see their pay rise with experience. The lower end of the salary range is around $30,000 for those just starting out. As experience grows, so can the salary. Experienced editors can earn up to $122,500 annually. Factors like industry, location, and company size also play a big role in determining salary.

To sum up, Copy Editing offers a rewarding career with good earning potential. Starting salaries are reasonable, and with experience, earnings can grow significantly. This makes it a good career path for those who enjoy working with words and details.

What are the highest paying cities for a Copy Editor?

Explore the top cities where copy editors can find lucrative job opportunities. Philadelphia, PA, leads with an average salary of $89,871. San Francisco, CA, follows closely, offering an average salary of $78,592. Job seekers can also find good pay in Washington, DC, where the average salary is $77,840. These cities provide strong job markets for copy editors, with competitive pay. Chicago, IL, offers an average salary of $72,863, making it an attractive choice for job seekers. Los Angeles, CA, and Nashville, TN, also offer promising salaries with averages of $72,638 and $61,937, respectively. Columbus, OH, and Phoenix, AZ, complete the list with average salaries of $50,138 and $39,865.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting Philadelphia, PA with the highest at $89,871 and Phoenix, AZ with the lowest at $39,865.

Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $89,871
In Philadelphia, work as an editor means collaborating with top local media outlets. Companies like 6ABC and NBC10 offer chances to refine news stories and digital content. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide unique content for publications.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $78,592
San Francisco offers an exciting environment for editors. Working here, you'll interact with tech giants like Google and Apple. The city's fast pace and innovation drive dynamic content creation. Your work will reach a global audience.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $77,840
As an editor in Washington, DC, you'll contribute to political and current event coverage. Major media companies like The Washington Post and CNN offer impactful roles. Your work will help shape public opinion and discourse.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $72,863
Chicago provides a unique setting for editors. With media giants like the Chicago Tribune and WGN-TV, you'll refine compelling stories. The city's diverse culture and history offer rich content opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $72,638
In Los Angeles, editors work with Hollywood studios and entertainment media. Companies like Variety and the Los Angeles Times offer dynamic roles. Your work will support the entertainment industry's storytelling.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $61,937
Nashville is a great city for editors. You'll work with music and entertainment media. Companies like CMT and the Tennessean provide engaging content. The city's music scene offers unique storytelling opportunities.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $50,138
Columbus offers a welcoming environment for editors. Companies like WBNS and the Columbus Dispatch provide local news opportunities. The city's growing tech scene and diverse culture add depth to your work.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $39,865
Phoenix presents a vibrant market for editors. Working with local media like KPNX and The Arizona Republic, you'll refine impactful stories. The city's unique culture and fast growth offer fresh content angles.
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What are the best companies a Copy Editor can work for?

Copy Editor positions can offer competitive pay at top companies. Amplify Education, Inc. stands out with an average salary of $85,625. CELLA and Williams Lea also provide attractive compensation packages. These companies value skilled copy editors and offer generous salaries to match.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Copy Editor jobs, highlighting Amplify Education, Inc. with the highest at $85,625 and RR Donnelley with the lowest at $37,589.

Amplify Education, Inc.
Average Salary: $85,625
Amplify Education, Inc. offers competitive pay for Copy Editor jobs. This company is known for its educational technology solutions. It operates in various locations across the United States.
CELLA
Average Salary: $65,504
CELLA provides solid compensation for Copy Editors. They focus on delivering quality services in various sectors. Their operations span multiple states, offering diverse opportunities for Copy Editors.
Williams Lea
Average Salary: $41,137
Williams Lea pays a reasonable salary to Copy Editors. They offer services in content creation and management. This company is active in several countries, providing international job prospects.
RR Donnelley
Average Salary: $37,589
RR Donnelley offers an average salary for Copy Editor roles. They specialize in printing and related services. With operations in key areas, they provide steady job opportunities for Copy Editors.

How to earn more as a Copy Editor?

Aspiring copy editors can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key factors. Gaining experience in different industries allows a copy editor to broaden their skill set and become more versatile. This variety makes them more attractive to potential employers and can lead to higher paying opportunities. Specializing in a niche can also enhance earning power. Areas such as legal, medical, or technical writing often command higher rates due to the specialized knowledge required.

Networking plays a critical role in advancing a career as a copy editor. Building relationships with other professionals in the field can lead to job referrals and freelance opportunities that pay more. Additionally, pursuing certifications can demonstrate expertise and dedication. Many organizations offer certification programs that can make a candidate stand out. Staying updated with the latest industry trends and tools can also improve efficiency and quality, leading to higher pay. Investing in continuous learning through workshops, courses, and seminars keeps skills sharp and relevant.

Here are five factors to consider to earn more as a copy editor:

Gain experience in different industries
Specialize in a niche
Network with other professionals
Pursue certifications
Stay updated with industry trends

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 70 Copy Editor job openings, nationwide.

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

Win at hiring.