The job market for editors in the United States

There are currently an estimated 127,400 editors in the United States. The editor job market is expected to shrink by -1.4% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are editors?

CareerExplorer rates editors with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 4,500 editors. That number is based on the retirement of 6,300 existing editors.

Are editors in demand?

Due to a general decline in the publishing industry, competition for editor jobs, especially those with established newspapers and magazines, is projected to be very robust. Coveted positions with major broadcasting and publishing firms tend to be concentrated in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. The best jobs in all locations, however, will go to candidates who possess technical and internet proficiency and are adept at editing and writing online digital content. Editors who supplement their journalism or communications degree with training in electronic publishing, graphics, multimedia production, and Web design will have a definite edge securing a position in a field with shrinking prospects. Aspiring editors will expand their employability by looking beyond magazines and newspapers and considering employment or freelance opportunities presented by publishing companies, marketing and advertising firms, political groups, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. These sectors frequently need trained editors to review, refine, clarify, and finalize a variety of documents for publication.

What’s the supply of editors?

The editor industry is concentrated in New York, California, Texas

Editor job market by state