Who Is Rachel Cole?
Rachel Cole is an American journalist, anchor, and multi-skilled reporter best known for her work at 12 News (KPNX-TV) in Phoenix, Arizona. As a longtime member of the 12 News team, Cole has become a familiar face to viewers across the Valley through her coverage of breaking news, community issues, public safety, and human-interest stories. She is recognized for her warm reporting style, strong connection with viewers, and dedication to telling stories that highlight the people and communities of Arizona.
A native Arizonan, Cole’s career has been deeply connected to the state she calls home. Unlike many journalists who relocate frequently between markets, she has built much of her professional identity around serving Arizona communities. Her work reflects a strong understanding of local issues, including education, community development, public safety, local government, and the everyday experiences of residents across the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Over the years, Cole has worked in several roles within television news, including reporter, morning anchor, and multimedia journalist. Her versatility has allowed her to cover both breaking news events and long-form community stories. She is particularly known for approaching difficult stories with compassion while maintaining the accuracy and professionalism expected of a broadcast journalist.
In addition to her traditional news responsibilities, Cole has expanded her role at 12 News by becoming the host of Arizona Midday, a lifestyle program focused on showcasing Arizona businesses, organizations, community leaders, and inspiring local stories. Her transition into this role reflects her passion for connecting audiences with the people and ideas shaping the state.
Rachel Cole Early Life
Rachel Cole was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, making her a true Arizona native. Growing up in the Valley gave her a unique connection to the communities she would later cover as a journalist. Unlike reporters who arrive in a city after beginning their careers elsewhere, Cole has a personal understanding of Arizona’s culture, neighborhoods, and traditions.
During her childhood, Cole developed an appreciation for storytelling and communication. Although she did not originally plan to become a television journalist, encouragement from teachers helped her discover an interest in broadcasting. She has credited educators who recognized her communication skills and encouraged her to explore journalism as a career path.
Growing up in Phoenix also shaped her perspective as a reporter. She experienced firsthand the rapid growth and transformation of the region, from expanding communities to changing economic and social landscapes. These experiences later helped her connect with viewers because she was not simply reporting on Arizona communities; she was part of them.
Cole has described herself as someone who enjoys connecting with people and learning their stories. That curiosity became one of the foundations of her journalism career, allowing her to approach interviews with genuine interest and empathy.
Although Rachel Cole is a public figure, she has maintained privacy regarding her early family life. Information about her parents, siblings, and childhood experiences beyond Phoenix has not been widely disclosed.
Rachel Cole Education Background
Rachel Cole attended Arizona State University (ASU), where she studied journalism at the prestigious Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She graduated cum laude with a degree related to journalism and mass communication, building the academic foundation that would launch her broadcasting career.
The Walter Cronkite School is recognized as one of the leading journalism programs in the United States, offering students hands-on experience in reporting, television production, multimedia storytelling, and media ethics. During her time at ASU, Cole developed the skills necessary to work in modern newsrooms, where journalists are expected to report across television, digital platforms, and social media.
Her education also allowed her to gain practical newsroom experience before entering professional broadcasting. Through internships, student reporting opportunities, and hands-on production work, she learned how to research stories, conduct interviews, write scripts, and deliver information effectively to audiences.
Cole’s connection to ASU remains an important part of her professional identity. As a graduate of the Cronkite School, she represents the university’s emphasis on ethical journalism, community service, and responsible storytelling.
Rachel Cole Journalism Career
Rachel Cole began her professional journalism career after completing her studies at Arizona State University. Her early career involved gaining experience as a multimedia journalist, developing the reporting skills required to succeed in competitive television markets.
Before joining 12 News, Cole worked at KRIS-TV Channel 6 in Corpus Christi, Texas, where she served as a morning anchor and reporter. During her time in Texas, she covered a wide range of stories, including breaking news, local government, crime, and major court cases.
One of the notable stories she covered while working in Corpus Christi was the high-profile Hannah Overton case, involving a foster mother convicted in the death of her four-year-old foster son. Cole’s reporting on major legal proceedings demonstrated her ability to handle complex and sensitive stories while maintaining professionalism and accuracy.
Her experience in Texas helped strengthen her skills as both a reporter and anchor. Covering important legal cases, community issues, and breaking news events prepared her for the demands of working in a larger media market like Phoenix.
Cole eventually returned to Arizona, bringing with her valuable experience from another television market while reconnecting with the community where she grew up.
Rachel Cole 12 News Career
Rachel Cole joined 12 News (KPNX-TV) in September 2017, returning to her home state after working in Texas. Since joining Team 12, she has become one of the station’s recognizable journalists, contributing as an anchor, reporter, and multi-skilled journalist.
At 12 News, Cole has covered a wide variety of Arizona stories, including breaking news, community issues, local events, and stories affecting residents throughout the Valley. Her reporting often focuses on the people behind the headlines, highlighting individuals, organizations, and communities making an impact.
Throughout her time at the station, Cole has reported on important Arizona events while also creating uplifting features that showcase the diversity and spirit of the state. Her work reflects 12 News’ focus on community-centered journalism and connecting viewers with meaningful stories.
Her colleagues and viewers recognize her for her approachable personality and ability to make sources comfortable during interviews. Whether reporting on difficult issues or celebrating community achievements, Cole brings a personal connection to her storytelling.
Rachel Cole Arizona Midday Role
In addition to her reporting and anchoring responsibilities at 12 News (KPNX-TV), Rachel Cole expanded her role at the station by becoming the host of Arizona Midday, a lifestyle and community-focused program designed to highlight the people, businesses, organizations, and events that make Arizona unique.
As host of Arizona Midday, Cole moved beyond traditional breaking news coverage and focused on longer-form conversations and features. The program allows her to showcase inspiring stories from across the state, including local entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, artists, healthcare professionals, community advocates, and individuals making a positive impact in Arizona.
Her transition into lifestyle programming reflects her natural ability to connect with people in a conversational setting. While traditional news reporting often requires quick interviews and fast-paced storytelling, Arizona Midday gives Cole the opportunity to explore stories in greater depth and allow guests to share their experiences more fully.
Through the program, Cole has continued strengthening her relationship with viewers by highlighting the people and organizations that contribute to Arizona’s culture and growth. Her approachable interviewing style and genuine curiosity have made her a strong fit for the role.
Rachel Cole Professional Recognition and Awards
Throughout her journalism career, Rachel Cole has earned recognition for her reporting abilities, professionalism, and commitment to community storytelling. During her time as a journalist, she has been acknowledged for producing meaningful stories that inform and engage audiences.
Her work in television journalism has involved covering complex issues, breaking news situations, and emotionally sensitive stories requiring careful reporting. From legal proceedings to community challenges, Cole has demonstrated an ability to maintain journalistic standards while connecting with the people affected by the events she covers.
As a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, she has also received recognition associated with academic achievement and professional development. Her experience represents the type of community-focused journalism emphasized by the Cronkite School, which prepares journalists to serve audiences through accurate and ethical reporting.
While Cole does not frequently highlight awards or personal achievements, her longevity at 12 News and continued responsibilities within the newsroom demonstrate the trust placed in her abilities as a journalist.
Rachel Cole Age
Rachel Cole has not publicly disclosed her exact date of birth. While some online biography websites attempt to estimate her age, there is no officially confirmed information from Rachel Cole or 12 News regarding her birthday or birth year.
Based on her educational timeline, career history, and professional experience, Cole is estimated to be in her late 30s or early 40s as of 2026. However, this remains an estimate and should not be considered confirmed.
Rachel Cole Husband
Rachel Cole is known for maintaining a private personal life, and details about her marriage or romantic relationships have not been widely shared publicly.
As of 2026, there is no verified public information confirming Rachel Cole’s husband’s identity or providing details about her marital status. Although some online profiles may speculate about her personal relationships, those claims have not been confirmed by Cole herself or by official 12 News sources.
Rachel Cole Family
Rachel Cole has maintained a relatively private approach regarding her family background. Although she occasionally discusses her connection to Arizona and expresses appreciation for the support she has received throughout her career, she has not publicly shared extensive details about her parents, siblings, or extended relatives.
Growing up in Phoenix played an important role in shaping Cole’s connection to Arizona. Being raised in the state has given her a personal understanding of the communities she covers and the issues affecting local residents.
Her family has reportedly been supportive of her career in journalism, encouraging her pursuit of storytelling and communication. However, Cole has chosen to protect their privacy and does not frequently share personal family details in interviews or on public platforms.
Rachel Cole Height
Rachel Cole has not publicly confirmed her official height. Based on her television appearances and comparisons with colleagues, some online sources estimate that she stands approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall.
However, because height information has not been released by Cole or 12 News, this figure should be considered an estimate rather than a verified measurement.
Cole’s professional reputation has been built on her reporting ability, interviewing skills, and connection with viewers rather than personal characteristics.
Rachel Cole Salary
Rachel Cole’s exact salary at 12 News (KPNX-TV) has not been publicly disclosed. Television stations generally keep compensation agreements for anchors and reporters confidential. Based on industry standards for experienced journalists working in a major television market such as Phoenix, Arizona, Cole’s annual salary is estimated to be between $80,000 and $150,000.
Her compensation likely reflects her years of experience, responsibilities as an anchor and host, her role in Arizona Midday, and her long-standing relationship with 12 News.
Salary estimates for television journalists vary widely depending on market size, station ownership, contract negotiations, and additional responsibilities. Therefore, these figures should be viewed as reasonable industry estimates rather than confirmed amounts.
Rachel Cole Net Worth
Rachel has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $3 million. These estimates are based on her journalism career, years of experience, and position at a major television station.
Because personal financial information is private, her exact net worth remains unknown. The available figures should be considered estimates rather than official financial records.
Interesting Facts About Rachel Cole
- Rachel Cole is an Arizona native who grew up in Phoenix.
- She graduated from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
- She joined 12 News (KPNX-TV) in 2017.
- Before returning to Arizona, she worked as a morning anchor and reporter at KRIS-TV in Corpus Christi, Texas.
- She has covered major legal cases, breaking news events, and community stories.
- She serves as the host of Arizona Midday on 12 News.
- She enjoys highlighting Arizona businesses, organizations, and community leaders through her lifestyle reporting.
- She is passionate about storytelling that connects viewers with their communities.
- She represents the next generation of Arizona journalists who combine traditional reporting with digital storytelling.
Rachel Cole Legacy
Rachel Cole has established herself as one of Arizona’s respected television journalists through her commitment to accurate reporting, community storytelling, and meaningful connections with viewers. As a Phoenix native, her career represents a unique combination of professional journalism experience and a personal connection to the community she serves.
Throughout her time at 12 News, Cole has demonstrated versatility by successfully working in multiple roles, including reporter, anchor, and lifestyle program host. Her ability to cover serious news events while also sharing uplifting community stories reflects the broad responsibilities of modern television journalism.
Beyond the newsroom, Cole’s work on Arizona Midday has allowed her to celebrate the people and organizations that contribute to Arizona’s identity. Through thoughtful interviews and engaging storytelling, she continues to showcase the state from a perspective that is informative, positive, and community-focused.
As she continues her career at 12 News, Rachel Cole remains committed to the core principles of journalism: informing the public, amplifying important voices, and telling stories that make a difference. Her dedication to Arizona communities and her passion for storytelling have helped her become a trusted and recognizable figure in Phoenix television news.