Food Writers and Editors

In May 2023, the median salary for writers, including food writers, was $73,690 a year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $40,900, while the highest paid 10 percent earned $148,240 or more. Writers who worked for newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers earned mean annual salaries of $73,740 in May 2023. Independent writers, artists, and performers earned average salaries of $108,620.

The DOL reports that the median annual salary for editors, including food editors, was $75,020 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,790, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $138,920. Editors who worked for newspaper, book, magazine, and directory publishers earned mean annual salaries of $78,500, and those who worked for media streaming distribution services, social networks, and other media networks and content providers earned $92,320.

In general, salaries are higher in large cities. Salaries are also dependent on the employer, as larger publications tend to pay more, and the writer or editor's level of experience, as those with many years of experience are able to earn a larger salary.

In addition to their salaries, many food writers and editors receive additional compensation. Most food critics, for example, have the meals they eat at a restaurant for the purpose of a review paid for by their employer. Some food writers and editors also receive travel expenses to cover expenditures such as mileage from driving to cover local events, or airfare and hotel accommodations for covering out-of-town industry events.

Benefits for full-time workers include vacation and sick time, health, and sometimes dental, insurance, and pension or 401(k) plans. Self-employed food writers and editors must provide their own benefits.