The new 2026 Local Journalist Index from Muck Rack and Rebuild Local News offers a stark look at the state of local journalism — and a clear signal that action is needed now.
Some of the most urgent findings:
- Local journalistic capacity continues to decline, and it’s no longer just a rural issue
- There’s a “shocking lack” of coverage of essential topics such as education and healthcare
- Communities with fewer local journalists experience higher rates of loneliness
- The loss of local news is contributing to real economic and civic harm
This is about more than local newsrooms. It’s about whether communities have access to the information they need to function, connect and hold institutions accountable.
The national average is 7.8 local journalist equivalents (LJEs) per 100,000 people — but many communities are operating well below that level, including places where we’re working to rebuild local news.
In San Diego County, there are just 4.79 LJEs per 100,000 people. Today, Times of San Diego has a 10-person newsroom — up from a single employee in 2024 before joining NEWSWELL.
In San Joaquin County, California, the number is even lower at 3.67. Our newsroom there, Stocktonia, now has six full-time journalists, making it the largest newsroom in the region.
These gains don’t close the gap entirely — but they show what’s possible.
Behind every local journalist statistic is a very real difference in coverage, accountability and community connection. And while the need remains urgent, there is also reason for optimism.
The same data that highlights decline also makes the opportunity clear: Communities still need and value local journalism. The challenge is building sustainable models that meet that need.
At NEWSWELL, that’s exactly what we’re focused on — rebuilding local journalism from the ground up. We’re investing in journalists, strengthening local newsrooms and expanding coverage in communities that need it most.
This moment calls for urgency, but also for belief in what’s possible. Local journalism is essential infrastructure — and with the right investment and support, it can be rebuilt to be stronger and more resilient than before.
Local journalism matters. Together, we can ensure it has a future.
This update appeared in our June 19, 2026, newsletter. This version has been lightly edited for clarity.