Landing a role as a host on a top-rated national news program like Fox News's "The Five" represents the pinnacle of a career in broadcast journalism and political commentary. The individuals in these high-profile positions command significant public attention and, consequently, substantial salaries.
While the exact multi-million dollar salaries of specific hosts like Jesse Watters, Dana Perino, or Greg Gutfeld are the result of private contract negotiations and are not publicly reported, we can analyze the broader career path of a Broadcast News Analyst or News Anchor to understand the earning potential in this dynamic field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for news analysts, reporters, and journalists was $57,500 in May 2022. However, this figure represents the midpoint for the entire industry, from small-town reporters to national network stars. For experienced analysts at major networks, salaries can easily climb into the six and seven figures.
This article will break down the salary expectations and influencing factors for professionals aspiring to build a career in broadcast news analysis.
What Does a Broadcast News Analyst Do?
A Broadcast News Analyst, often called a political commentator or pundit, is a subject-matter expert who provides context, opinion, and analysis on current events for television, radio, or digital platforms. Unlike reporters who primarily focus on delivering facts, analysts are hired for their specific viewpoint and expertise.
Key responsibilities include:
- Researching and analyzing complex topics, from political policy to economic trends and legal cases.
- Developing and articulating well-reasoned opinions and arguments.
- Participating in panel discussions and debates, often with individuals holding opposing views.
- Writing scripts, articles, or op-eds to accompany their on-air appearances.
- Interviewing guests and leveraging their expertise to inform the audience.
The hosts of "The Five" perform all these duties, blending reporting with robust, opinion-driven discussion, which defines their roles as top-tier news analysts.
Average Broadcast News Analyst Salary
Salary for a broadcast news professional varies dramatically based on market size, experience, and public profile. While the pinnacle is multi-million dollar contracts, the journey to get there has more defined benchmarks.
- Median Salary: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for news analysts, reporters, and journalists as $57,500 as of May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,540, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $103,490.
- Typical Range: Data from salary aggregators provides a more specific look at broadcast roles. Salary.com reports that the typical salary for a News Anchor in the U.S. falls between $62,217 and $99,759, with an average of around $79,275 (as of November 2023).
- Top-Tier Earners: It's crucial to understand that these figures represent the broad market. For analysts and hosts at major national networks like Fox News, CNN, or MSNBC, compensation is significantly higher. These roles often include base salaries in the high six or seven figures, supplemented by bonuses, speaking fees, and book deals that can elevate total earnings substantially.
Key Factors That Influence Salary
Several key factors determine the earning potential of a broadcast news analyst. Understanding them is vital for anyone planning a career in this field.
### Level of Education
A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, political science, or a related field is typically the minimum requirement. While a degree is foundational, it is not the primary driver of top-tier salaries. However, an advanced degree can significantly boost credibility and earning potential. For example, a legal analyst with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or an economic analyst with an M.B.A. or Ph.D. in Economics can command a higher salary due to their specialized, expert knowledge.
### Years of Experience
Experience is arguably the most critical factor influencing a news analyst's salary. A career in this field is built progressively, usually starting in smaller markets and moving up.
- Entry-Level (0-3 years): Professionals often start as reporters or production assistants at local television or radio stations. Salaries at this stage are modest, often aligning with the lower end of the BLS range.
- Mid-Career (5-10 years): With proven experience, an analyst may move to a larger regional market or take on a more specialized role. At this stage, they have built a portfolio and a reputation, allowing for salaries in the $60,000 to $90,000 range, according to data from Payscale.
- Senior/National Level (10+ years): Reaching a national network is the goal for many. At this level, an analyst is not just an employee but a "brand." Their unique voice, public following, and proven ability to attract viewers are what lead to six- and seven-figure contracts. The salaries of the hosts on "The Five" are a direct reflection of decades of experience and building a nationally recognized personal brand.
### Geographic Location
Where you work matters immensely. Media hubs not only offer more opportunities but also command significantly higher salaries to account for the higher cost of living and the concentration of major networks.
According to BLS data, the top-paying metropolitan areas for news analysts are:
1. New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA: The epicenter of American media.
2. Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA: A major hub for broadcast and entertainment.
3. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV: The center for political news and analysis.
Working in these markets provides access to the headquarters of networks like Fox News (New York City) and a higher salary ceiling.
### Company Type
The type of media organization is a massive salary differentiator.
- Local TV and Radio: These outlets have smaller audiences and revenue streams, resulting in lower salaries.
- Digital-Native Outlets: Companies like The Daily Wire, Vox, or various high-profile podcasts and YouTube channels have variable pay structures, often tied to audience size and monetization strategies.
- National Cable Networks (Fox News, CNN, MSNBC): These are the top payers. Their vast subscriber bases and advertising revenues allow them to invest heavily in on-air talent who can draw and retain viewers.
- Major Broadcast Networks (ABC, CBS, NBC): Similar to cable networks, these legacy broadcasters pay premium salaries for their flagship news programs and top analysts.
### Area of Specialization
Generalists earn less than specialists. An analyst who can provide expert commentary on a niche but important topic is more valuable. Hosts on "The Five," for instance, often have distinct areas of expertise—like Dana Perino's background in White House communications or Jeanine Pirro's career as a prosecutor and judge. This specialized knowledge builds authority and makes them indispensable to the program's format, directly increasing their value and earning potential.
Job Outlook
The media landscape is undergoing significant transformation. According to the BLS, overall employment for news analysts, reporters, and journalists is projected to decline 3 percent from 2022 to 2032. This decline is primarily due to the consolidation of traditional newspapers and broadcast stations.
However, this data point requires context. While traditional roles may be shrinking, opportunities are expanding in digital media. The growth of online news sites, streaming services, podcasts, and social media platforms has created new avenues for analysts to build an audience and a career. The key to future success lies in adapting to these new platforms and developing a strong, multi-platform personal brand.
Conclusion
A career as a broadcast news analyst is both challenging and potentially lucrative. While the journey begins with modest pay in smaller markets, the path to the top is paved with deep expertise, extensive experience, and the cultivation of a powerful personal brand.
For those aspiring to reach the level of the hosts on "The Five," the key takeaways are:
- Expect to start small and build your experience progressively.
- Develop a specialization to differentiate yourself and increase your value.
- Focus on building a brand that resonates with an audience across multiple platforms.
- Aim for major media markets like New York or Washington D.C. to access the highest-paying opportunities.
While the seven-figure salaries of top network hosts are the exception, a successful and well-compensated career in news analysis is an achievable goal for dedicated, knowledgeable, and charismatic professionals.