Editor Salary UK
Newspaper and periodical editors in the UK earn a median salary of £41,583 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £33,971 and £54,276. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Newspaper and periodical editors” (SOC 2491).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £42,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For newspaper and periodical editors, £42,451 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +9.0% versus the national average. Experienced newspaper and periodical editors (top 25%) earn over £54,276.
About this role
Newspaper and periodical editors research, write and produce content for publication or broadcast. They investigate stories, conduct interviews, verify facts and present information in formats appropriate to their medium — whether print, online, broadcast or multimedia.
Key responsibilities
- Researching, investigating and verifying stories
- Writing, editing or producing content for publication
- Conducting interviews and building source networks
- Meeting editorial deadlines and standards
- Adapting content for different platforms and audiences
Qualifications and entry routes
A degree in journalism, English or a related field is common. NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) qualifications are the industry standard. Portfolio and work experience are essential.
Career outlook
Traditional media roles are declining, but digital, specialist and freelance journalism offer opportunities. Content creation skills are transferable to marketing and communications.
Key skills
Common industries
- National and regional media
- Broadcast media
- Digital media
- Publishing
- PR and communications
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£27,000
0-2 years
Mid Level
£33,971
3-7 years
Senior
£54,276
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +101% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 8.6%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£868
Editor salary: common questions
How much do newspaper and periodical editors earn in the UK?
Is £42,451 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for newspaper and periodical editors?
Have newspaper and periodical editors salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for newspaper and periodical editors?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.