Journalism & Media Salary in South East
The South East consistently ranks as the UK's second-highest paying region, benefiting from proximity to London, strong transport links and a concentration of technology, pharmaceutical and financial services employers along corridors such as the M4 and M3.
Housing costs are above the national average, particularly in commuter towns. Some employers offer London-adjacent salary packages.
Salary Trajectory
| Stage | Years Exp | P25 | Median | P75 | P90 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trainee Journalist / Junior Reporter | 0+ | £20,140 | £23,320 | £27,560 | £31,800 |
| Reporter / Staff Writer | 2+ | £25,440 | £30,740 | £37,100 | £42,400 |
| Senior Reporter / Features Writer | 5+ | £33,920 | £42,400 | £50,880 | £58,300 |
| Editor / Section Head | 9+ | £44,520 | £55,120 | £65,720 | £79,500 |
| Deputy Editor / Head of Content | 13+ | £58,300 | £72,080 | £86,920 | £100,700 |
| Editor-in-Chief | 18+ | £74,200 | £95,400 | £121,900 | £153,700 |
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How South East Compares
Mid-career Journalism & Media median salary by region
Compare with Other Careers in South East
Film / TV Production
Music Industry
Accounting & Audit
Actuarial Science
Journalism & Media in Other Regions
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Based on ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) via NOMIS. Regional salary adjustments derived from ONS regional pay differentials. Career progression timelines based on industry research. All figures are gross annual pay estimates for full-time workers.