As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for an Editor I in the United States is $61,860 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.
However, an Editor I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Editor I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Editor I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Editor I | 0-2 years | $61,860 |
| Editor II | 2-4 years | $78,282 |
| Editor III | 4-7 years | $96,059 |
| Editorial Manager | 7+ years | $113,131 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Editor Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how an Editor I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Editor I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Editor II | $78,282 | 27% |
| Photo Editor | $69,133 | 12% |
Salaries for an Editor I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $56,895 in 2023 to around $56,924 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Editor I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $56,895 |
| 2024 | $57,162 |
| 2025 | $56,924 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Editor I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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An Editor I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Editor I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Editor I is $78,024.
The highest pay for Editor I is $74,133.
The lowest pay for Editor I is $48,386.
Reviews, edits, and re-writes a variety of documents and/or digital content. Responsible for creating and maintaining accurate and compelling content for written copy and/or websites and other online communications media. Ensures that all content meets required and accepted format and standards. Evaluates content for clarity, accuracy, and consistency. May coordinate with creative team to produce final drafts. Requires a bachelor's degree in journalism or equivalent. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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