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Salary

How much does a Public Information Officer make?

The average salary for a Public Information Officer is $77,457 per year in the US.

Being a Public Information Officer (PIO) offers a rewarding career with competitive pay. On average, a PIO earns about $77,457 a year. This salary can vary based on experience and location. The most experienced PIOs earn over $141,000 annually.

Here are some salary details:

  • The bottom 10% earn less than $40,500.
  • The top 10% earn more than $141,950.
  • The majority earn between $58,945 and $105,059.

These figures show that with experience, PIOs can expect to see their earnings rise significantly.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Public Information Officer?

Public Information Officer roles often come with strong earning potential, particularly in major cities. Washington, DC, leads the pack with the highest average salary at $123,130, making it a top choice for those in the field. Cities like Los Angeles and Seattle also offer competitive salaries, with averages above $80,000, providing ample opportunity for professionals. These cities offer more than just high salaries; they provide dynamic environments with diverse opportunities for Public Information Officers. Locations such as Honolulu and Phoenix also present attractive salaries and vibrant job markets. The competitive nature of these roles underscores the importance of experience and skill in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Public Information Officer jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $123,130 and Columbus, OH with the lowest at $59,538.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $123,130
    In Washington, DC, professionals can expect to work closely with government agencies and non-profits. Key employers include the White House and local government offices. The city offers many networking opportunities for those in communications.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Washington, DC


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $102,705
    Los Angeles is a media hub, offering great chances for those in public communications. Companies like ABC7 and major studios create an environment rich in media interactions. It's a dynamic place for a career in information dissemination.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $81,537
    Seattle is known for its tech giants, like Microsoft and Amazon. These companies value clear and effective communication. Working here means being at the heart of tech innovation, with a focus on public messaging.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $80,986
    In Honolulu, roles often involve working with tourism and state government. With a focus on community outreach, it’s a place where storytelling and public relations thrive. The laid-back environment complements the job's nature.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Honolulu, HI


  5. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $80,059
    Phoenix offers a growing job market with a mix of government and private sector opportunities. Companies like APS and the city’s government provide diverse platforms for public communication roles. The climate and scenery add to the quality of life.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  6. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $77,001
    Albany, the capital city, provides a unique setting for public communications. It’s a place where political and public sector roles intersect. Working here offers a mix of government and nonprofit engagement, with a focus on informing the public.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Albany, NY


  7. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $69,003
    Austin is a city with a vibrant tech scene and a strong emphasis on public engagement. Companies such as Dell and the state government offer numerous opportunities. The city’s lively culture makes it an exciting place to work.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Austin, TX


  8. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $67,320
    Kansas City offers a mix of corporate and governmental opportunities. Companies like Cerner and local government offices provide diverse platforms for public information work. The city’s friendly atmosphere complements professional growth.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Kansas City, MO


  9. Lincoln, NE
    Average Salary: $61,051
    Lincoln, as the state capital, provides a unique environment for public communications. Working here involves engaging with state government and local media. It’s a great place for those who enjoy a smaller city feel with significant professional opportunities.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Lincoln, NE


  10. Columbus, OH
    Average Salary: $59,538
    Columbus offers a balanced mix of opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Companies like Nationwide and the state government provide diverse roles. It’s a growing city with a strong community focus.
    Find Public Information Officer jobs in Columbus, OH

What are the best companies a Public Information Officer can work for?

Public Information Officer roles offer competitive salaries, especially at the State of Ohio and the State of Florida. The State of Ohio pays Public Information Officers about $59,939 on average, offering a solid income. Meanwhile, the State of Florida provides an average salary of $52,065, making it another attractive employer in this field. Both states provide stable and rewarding career opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Public Information Officer jobs, highlighting State of Ohio with the highest at $59,939 and State of Florida with the lowest at $52,065.
  1. State of Ohio
    Average Salary: $59,939
    The State of Ohio offers Public Information Officer jobs that focus on communicating with the public and the media. These positions are available in various locations across Ohio, including Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. The roles emphasize crafting messages, managing social media, and ensuring accurate information flow.


  2. State of Florida
    Average Salary: $52,065
    In the State of Florida, Public Information Officer jobs involve engaging with the public and media to deliver important information. Positions can be found in key cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. Officers in these roles are responsible for press releases, community outreach, and maintaining public relations.

How to earn more as a Public Information Officer?

A Public Information Officer (PIO) plays a critical role in communicating information between the public and an organization. To maximize earning potential in this role, consider focusing on certain key factors. Developing strong communication skills can greatly enhance a PIO’s effectiveness. Being able to convey information clearly and succinctly is essential. Cultivating these skills can lead to promotions and higher salaries.

Gaining experience in different areas of public relations can also boost earnings. A PIO with a broad skill set becomes more valuable to an employer. This could mean handling various types of media, crafting press releases, and managing social media accounts. Each additional skill can command a higher salary. Networking with other PIOs and professionals in the field can open up more job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting on social media platforms can lead to higher-paying positions.

Here are some steps to increase earnings as a PIO:

  1. Improve communication skills
  2. Gain experience in various public relations areas
  3. Network with other professionals
  4. Pursue advanced degrees or certifications
  5. Seek out higher-paying industries or locations

Currently 40 Public Information Officer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Public Information Officer in the US?

Learn what a Public Information Officer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Public Information Officer today.
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Public Information Officer
40 Job Openings