Compensation Growth for Jobs at Local Media Stations Was Mixed

The recently published 2025 Croner Local Media Survey concluded the growth in pay for jobs at local media stations was mixed. The report provides in-depth market data on compensation for jobs specific to local television and radio stations and to local advertising sales. The survey results include data from television stations, radio stations, MSOs and digital media companies.

Findings

Noteworthy findings from the 2025 report include:

  • Compensation growth for local media jobs varied by market. For Local Sales Managers, actual total cash compensation was lower in markets 11 through 25. For Account Executives, actual total cash compensation was lower in markets 4 through 50.  Generally, in the largest and smallest markets actual total cash compensation had moderate to strong growth.
  • Among Local Sales Managers, actual total cash compensation is highest in the Southwest region, driven by cities in Texas, primarily Dallas and Austin.
  • Among station-specific positions, both middle management and individual contributors experienced moderate growth in base salary and actual total cash compensation from 2024 to 2025.

Annual Report

The Croner Local Media Survey delivers data and insights critical to benchmarking pay competitively for companies that broadcast content and sell local advertising for cable, television and radio stations. The Survey results provide meaningful answers to your questions about local media station salaries and how to compete for talent for 90 industry-specific positions at local stations.


For more information about participation in a Croner survey, please contact Laurie Krashanoff, Manager, Account Relations, at +(415) 485-5521 or laurie@croner.com.

Follow this link to find out more about The Croner Company’s compensation surveys.

2025 Croner Local Media Survey Results