Journalists

How journalism careers changed as newspapers lost advertising to digital platforms, why pay is low for many reporters, and the rise of independent digital media.

Journalism has changed rapidly.

Pay

Many reporters, especially in regional media, earn low pay; some are stringers paid per story.

Revenue decline

Newspapers lost advertising to Google and Meta.

Layoffs

Media houses cut jobs, especially during COVID.

Digital media

Independent digital outlets and YouTube journalists grew.

Risks

Journalists face legal and physical risks.

Business models

Subscriptions and memberships support some outlets.

The stringer

A small-town stringer earns a small amount per published story, supplementing it with other work.

Thinking journalism is well-paid glamour work

Many reporters earn little.

Key takeaways

Many reporters earn low pay.
Ads shifted to digital platforms.
Layoffs hit media.
Digital outlets and YouTube grew.