Media layoffs reach record levels in 2023 with 2,681 journalism jobs cut, up 48% from 2022

Broadcast, print and digital outlets collectively cut 2,681 journalism jobs in 2023, up 48% from 1,808 in 2022 and 77% from 1,511 in 2021. The layoffs affected major outlets including the Los Angeles Times (nearly a quarter of newsroom), Time magazine, National Geographic, Wall Street Journal, and CBS News. The trend accelerated in 2024 with The Messenger shutting down entirely. Media industry analysts attribute the cuts to declining advertising revenue, economic pressures, and the shift to digital platforms.