How to Become a Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Pennsylvania
Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $51,030/year, which is 13% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a child, family, and school social workers takes home approximately $2,044/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a child, family, and school social workers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a child, family, and school social workers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Child, Family, and School Social Workers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many child, family, and school social workers positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for child, family, and school social workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 18,200 child, family, and school social workers. The highest concentrations are in Harrisburg-Carlisle and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $61K | $29.18/hr | 1,040 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $58K | $27.68/hr | 7,510 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $56K | $27.15/hr | 950 |
| Lebanon | $54K | $25.99/hr | 100 |
| Lancaster | $53K | $25.54/hr | 810 |
| Williamsport | $52K | $25.17/hr | 90 |
| Chambersburg | $52K | $24.86/hr | 210 |
| York-Hanover | $51K | $24.34/hr | 530 |
| Reading | $50K | $24.22/hr | 510 |
| Gettysburg | $50K | $24.09/hr | 130 |
| Erie | $50K | $23.88/hr | 560 |
| Pittsburgh | $49K | $23.71/hr | 3,480 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $45K | $21.77/hr | 800 |
| State College | $45K | $21.73/hr | 160 |
| Altoona | $42K | $20.01/hr | 190 |
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary range in Pennsylvania
Child, Family, and School Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a child, family, and school social workers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median child, family, and school social workers salary in Pennsylvania is $51,030 per year ($24.54/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $58,570. Salaries range from $38,070 to $78,020.
What are the requirements to become a child, family, and school social workers in Pennsylvania?▼
Child, Family, and School Social Workers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a child, family, and school social workers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $51,030, a child, family, and school social workers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,456/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for child, family, and school social workers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for child, family, and school social workers in Pennsylvania are Harrisburg-Carlisle ($60,700), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($57,580), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($56,470). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for child, family, and school social workers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $51,030 salary, this means roughly $1,567/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.