Highest Paid Local TV Meteorologists and Their Impressive Salaries

Ever wonder how much money your favorite local TV meteorologists make? You see them every morning or evening, cheerfully forecasting the weather and helping you decide whether to carry an umbrella or slather on sunscreen. But behind those friendly smiles and shiny graphics is a competitive, fast-paced industry that rewards experience, charisma, and reputation quite generously.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the highest-paid local TV meteorologists across the country and what sets them apart in this fascinating field.

Why Do Meteorologists Make So Much?

You might be asking, It’s just the weather, why the high salaries?

The truth is, delivering the weather forecast is about more than reading temperatures off a screen. Today’s top local meteorologists are part entertainer, part scientist, and part community leader. They’ve become trusted household names, especially in areas where extreme weather is common and accuracy can make a big difference in people’s lives.

Here’s what top-earning meteorologists bring to the table:

• Years of experience: Many have been in the industry for decades.
• Advanced education: Some hold degrees in meteorology, atmospheric science, or related fields.
• Public trust and popularity: They often have strong social media followings and deep roots in the community.
• On-air presence: Charisma and communication skills go a long way on television.

Top Earning Local TV Meteorologists in the U.S.

Let’s spotlight some of the most recognized names in local broadcasting and their impressive paychecks. These figures may surprise you!

1. Dallas Raines: ABC7, Los Angeles

With his signature enthusiasm and golden California tan, Dallas Raines is one of the most recognizable faces on Los Angeles TV. Currently working at KABC-TV, he’s been delivering sunny skies (and sometimes storm warnings) to Southern Californians for decades.

Estimated Salary: $500,000 to $700,000 per year

Raines brings more than just weather reports; he brings personality. His engaging style and longevity in the industry have made him a staple in local news. If you’ve ever lived in LA, chances are you’ve caught one of his forecasts.

2. Alanna Rizzo: SportsNet LA (Meteorologist turned Reporter)

Okay, Rizzo might have switched gears to become a sports reporter, but she started her career in weather, which helped build her on-screen chops. Her transition shows just how valued TV meteorologists can become when they bring strong storytelling and communication skills to their roles.

Estimated Past Salary in Weather Broadcasting: $300,000+

3. Fritz Coleman Retired from KNBC, Los Angeles

Fritz Coleman was a fixture in the Los Angeles weather scene for more than 40 years. Though retired now, he was one of the highest-paid meteorologists in the local television industry during his time.

Estimated Peak Salary: $600,000+

Coleman was not only known for his weather expertise but also for his dry sense of humor and fun delivery style. It’s no wonder KNBC kept him as long as they did.

4. Ginger Zee, ABC News Chief Meteorologist

While Ginger Zee is now a national figure, she got her start delivering local weather forecasts. Today, she’s the Chief Meteorologist for ABC News, but her rise from local news in Michigan to Good Morning America began in small regional studios.

Estimated Salary: $500,000+

Zee’s journey is motivating for many young meteorologists. She’s proof that starting in local TV can launch a career onto the national stage.

5. Jim Cantore The Weather Channel

When there’s a major storm brewing, there’s a good chance you’ll see Jim Cantore somewhere in the middle of it. Though not a local TV figure in the traditional sense, he represents the upper echelon of weather broadcasting.

Estimated Salary: $500,000 – $750,000+

If you’ve ever watched The Weather Channel during hurricane season, you’ve probably seen Cantore braving the winds and rain. He’s a legend in the business and a widely respected figure among meteorologists.

What It Takes to Be a Top-Paid Meteorologist

Success in local television weather isn’t just about knowing the forecast, it’s about making people want to tune in to you. Even with the rise of mobile apps and smart home devices that deliver forecasts at lightning speed, people still value the familiar faces they trust for accurate information and calm voices during extreme weather.

So, what’s the secret recipe?

• Building trust with viewers: Be consistent, relatable, and accurate.

• Becoming a community figure: Attend school visits, charity events, and local fairs engage with the audience beyond the screen.

• Adapting to technology: Top meteorologists stay ahead of the tech curve with knowledge of radar systems, climate data models, and social media tools.

How Do Salaries Compare in Different Markets?

Local TV markets vary widely, and so do meteorologist salaries. Someone forecasting for a major city like New York or Los Angeles is likely to earn more than one in a smaller town.

For context:

• Top 10 Markets (e.g., LA, NYC, Chicago): Salaries can range from $300,000 to over $750,000 for veteran meteorologists.

• Mid-sized Markets (e.g., Charlotte, Phoenix): Might see averages in the $100,000 – $250,000 range.

• Smaller Markets (e.g., rural areas): Entry-level meteorologists often start between $35,000 – $60,000 annually.

It’s a long road to the top, but for those passionate about weather and media, it’s achievable.

Conclusion 

Local TV meteorologists have become part of our daily lives. We wake up with them, plan vacations around their forecasts, and trust them in times of severe weather. And for those at the top of the industry, that trust and dedication translate into impressive salaries and long-lasting careers. So next time you see your favorite weatherperson on screen, remember you’re looking at a standout professional, possibly among the highest-paid meteorologists in local TV.