Public Relations Specialists
Public relations specialists create and maintain a positive public image for the clients they represent.
Is public relations specialists a good career?
It scores 24/100 and ranks #232 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays above the U.S. median wage ($74,750)
- High volume of openings — about 27,600 a year
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What public relations specialists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. public relations specialists earn between $56,260 and $100,370 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live public relations specialists jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow faster than average through 2034.
Education
Public relations specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in public relations or another communications field, social science, or business. Through such programs, students may produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates their ability to prospective employers.
Although it is not typically required to enter the occupation, professional certification is preferred by some employers hiring candidates for public relations specialist jobs.
Important qualities
Interpersonal skills. Public relations specialists deal with the public and the media regularly. They must be open and friendly in order to maintain a favorable image for their organization.
Organizational skills. Public relations specialists are often in charge of managing several events or communications at the same time, which requires excellent skills in coordinating arrangements.
Problem-solving skills. Public relations specialists sometimes must explain how a company or client is handling sensitive issues. They must use good judgment in what they report and how they report it.
Speaking skills. Public relations specialists regularly speak on behalf of clients or their organization. When doing so, they must be able to clearly explain the client’s or the organization’s position.
Writing skills. Public relations specialists must be able to write well-organized and clear press releases, speeches, and social media posts. They must be able to grasp key messages and write them in a succinct but engaging way.
Related occupations
How much do public relations specialists make?
The national median wage is $74,750 a year, with the middle half earning between $56,260 and $100,370 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is public relations specialists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 24 of 100 and ranks #232 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +4.8% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a public relations specialist?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do public relations specialists earn the most?
Among states, District of Columbia pays the highest median ($102,740). Local pay for every state and metro is below.