How much does a Editor make?
Editors play a vital role in shaping written content. Their work can be found across various industries, from publishing to digital media. On average, Editors can expect to earn about $71,977 per year. This figure varies depending on several factors, including experience, education, and the specific industry.
Editors in the top 25% can earn salaries of $104,795 or more annually. The bottom 25% earn less than $30,000 each year. The salary distribution looks like this: 25.74% of Editors make between $30,000 and $44,959; 18.77% earn from $44,959 to $59,918; and 15.27% fall between $59,918 and $74,877. As Editors gain more experience and expertise, their earning potential increases, allowing them to reach higher salary brackets.
What are the highest paying cities for a Editor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,939
In San Francisco, a job as a content creator involves working with top tech firms. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. These roles emphasize creativity and strong writing skills.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $103,608
San Jose presents a dynamic environment for those in editorial roles. Companies such as Cisco and Intel demand quality content. Success here relies on clear communication and attention to detail.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $101,299
In Washington, DC, editorial positions often involve government or non-profit work. Organizations like the National Geographic Society offer impactful roles. These jobs focus on accuracy and impactful storytelling.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $100,998
Los Angeles brings a creative atmosphere to editorial roles. Working with media companies like Disney and NBCUniversal is common. These positions value imagination and a strong sense of style.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $90,537
Seattle offers a unique blend of tech and lifestyle in editorial jobs. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft seek skilled content creators. These roles emphasize both technology and lifestyle topics.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $84,632
In Chicago, editorial roles often involve a mix of print and digital media. Companies such as Tribune Publishing and the Chicago Tribune offer exciting opportunities. These jobs focus on in-depth reporting and engaging writing.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $82,351
Denver provides a vibrant setting for editorial work. Companies like Denver Post and 9News look for talented writers. These roles focus on local news and community engagement.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $81,404
Houston offers a variety of opportunities in editorial roles. Working with companies like Shell and Baker Hughes is possible. These jobs involve creating content that meets high standards.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $79,550
In San Diego, editorial roles often involve the tech and defense industries. Companies like Qualcomm and Northrop Grumman offer exciting positions. These jobs require clear and concise communication.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $77,215
Atlanta provides a growing market for editorial positions. Companies such as Cox Enterprises and CNN seek skilled writers. These roles emphasize regional news and impactful storytelling.
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What are the best companies a Editor can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $174,351
Apple offers exciting Editor roles where professionals can work on projects for cutting-edge products. Locations include Cupertino, California, and other offices worldwide.
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The Washington Post
Average Salary: $161,009
The Washington Post provides a dynamic environment for Editors. They focus on impactful journalism. The company operates from Washington, D.C., and has a strong global presence.
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Thomson Reuters
Average Salary: $142,717
Thomson Reuters is a global leader in information services. Editors here work on high-quality content. They have offices in New York, London, and other major cities.
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The New York Times
Average Salary: $138,300
The New York Times offers a prestigious platform for Editors to shape news. They are headquartered in New York City and have bureaus worldwide.
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Dow Jones
Average Salary: $131,649
Dow Jones provides a great career path for Editors. They focus on financial and business journalism. Their main office is in New York City, with others around the globe.
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Bloomberg
Average Salary: $127,500
Bloomberg offers innovative Editor positions in financial news. They operate globally with key offices in New York and London.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $126,013
KPMG provides Editor roles focusing on business insights. They have a strong global presence with headquarters in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
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Condé Nast
Average Salary: $115,581
Condé Nast offers diverse Editor roles in fashion and lifestyle. They have headquarters in New York City and operate internationally.
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Warner Bros. Discovery
Average Salary: $115,012
Warner Bros. Discovery provides Editor roles in entertainment and media. They have key offices in New York City and Los Angeles.
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New York Post
Average Salary: $102,438
The New York Post offers Editor positions focusing on local and national news. They are based in New York City with a strong local presence.
How to earn more as a Editor?
Enhancing your earnings as an editor involves a mix of skill development, experience, and strategic choices. Building expertise in a specialized field can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. For instance, technical editors who master fields like IT or medicine often find greater demand and can command higher rates. Similarly, those who develop strong skills in content management systems or digital publishing tools can become more valuable to employers.
Networking within the industry creates opportunities that may lead to higher-paying positions. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and engaging with peers online can help editors learn about new job openings and market trends. Forming connections with other professionals can lead to referrals, recommendations, and potentially, better job offers. Moreover, an active online presence through a personal blog or social media can showcase your expertise and attract the attention of hiring managers and potential clients.
Here are some key factors to consider in boosting your earning potential:
- Specialization: Focus on a niche market, such as legal, medical, or academic editing.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest tools and trends in the industry.
- Networking: Build relationships within the industry to discover new opportunities.
- Freelancing: Offer your services as a freelancer to increase your income streams.
- Professional Development: Invest in courses and certifications that enhance your skills.



