As of 2025, Pennsylvania continues to offer a competitive job market with a wide range of salaries across industries, from healthcare and education to technology and manufacturing.
Whether you’re planning to relocate, job hunt, or assess your career growth, understanding the average salary in Pennsylvania can help you make informed decisions.
In this guide, we break down the average wages by city, job type, and industry, along with regional differences and key economic drivers across the Keystone State.
What Is the Average Salary in Pennsylvania in 2025?
As of mid-2025, the average annual salary in Pennsylvania is approximately $59,300, slightly below the national average of around $63,000.
However, salaries can vary significantly based on location, education, experience, and industry.
- Median hourly wage: $28.50
- Top 10% earners: $105,000+ annually
- Bottom 10% earners: $28,000 or less
Top Cities in Pennsylvania by Average Salary
City | Average Salary (2025) |
---|---|
Philadelphia | $66,700 |
Pittsburgh | $62,100 |
Allentown | $58,500 |
Harrisburg | $60,200 |
Erie | $53,400 |
Scranton–Wilkes-Barre | $54,100 |
State College | $57,000 |
Philadelphia leads in average wages due to its large job base in finance, law, and healthcare, while cities like Erie and Scranton offer lower living costs and modest salaries.
Top-Paying Jobs in Pennsylvania
Occupation | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|
Physicians & Surgeons | $215,000+ |
Dentists | $180,000 |
Pharmacists | $135,000 |
Software Engineers | $115,000 |
Financial Managers | $125,000 |
Nurse Practitioners | $115,000 |
Industrial Engineers | $95,000 |
Electricians | $70,000 |
Registered Nurses (RNs) | $80,000 |
High School Teachers | $62,000 |
Healthcare, tech, and engineering remain the top-paying career paths in Pennsylvania in 2025, especially in urban areas.
Top Industries and Their Average Salaries
Industry | Average Salary (2025) |
---|---|
Healthcare & Social Assistance | $68,000 |
Professional & Business Services | $72,000 |
Information Technology (IT) | $90,000 |
Manufacturing | $62,000 |
Education Services | $55,000 |
Retail Trade | $39,000 |
Construction | $58,000 |
Industries like IT and healthcare continue to lead in salary growth, while retail and food service remain among the lower-paying sectors statewide.
Salary Growth and Economic Outlook
Wages in Pennsylvania have seen modest growth of 3–4% annually, largely due to:
- Rising demand in tech and health sectors
- Statewide infrastructure projects
- Higher minimum wage proposals under legislative review
The gap between rural and urban wage averages still exists, but the rise in remote work is helping to even the playing field in certain industries like software, marketing, and customer support.
Final Thoughts
The average salary in Pennsylvania for 2025 reflects a strong, diverse economy with regional differences and industry-specific highs.
Whether you’re targeting roles in Philadelphia’s business sector, Pittsburgh’s medical centers, or Central PA’s education hubs, salary expectations should align with your field, experience, and location.
If you’re evaluating a move or career change, consider not just the salary—but also cost of living, benefits, and job stability in your desired area.
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Average Salary in Pennsylvania: Top Cities, Jobs, and Industries in 2025
Average Salary in Pennsylvania: Top Cities, Jobs, and Industries in 2025
Average Salary in Pennsylvania: Top Cities, Jobs, and Industries in 2025