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Personal Care · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Childcare Workers in Pennsylvania

Childcare Workers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $30,140/year, which is 14% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a childcare workers takes home approximately $697/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$30K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-14%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
13,000
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a childcare workers can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$30,140
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$2,111/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$1,414/mo
Rent as % of take-home67% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$30,140/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$697/mo

Becoming a childcare workers in Pennsylvania

1

Meet education requirements

Childcare Workers positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many childcare 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.

3

Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification

Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for childcare workerss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs 13,000 childcare workers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton.

Childcare Workers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$35K$16.6/hr7,960
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton$32K$15.49/hr910
Scranton--Wilkes-Barre$31K$14.72/hr600
Lancaster$31K$14.72/hr420
York-Hanover$30K$14.57/hr470
Harrisburg-Carlisle$30K$14.4/hr890
Pittsburgh$30K$14.35/hr2,560
Gettysburg$30K$14.25/hr40
Reading$30K$14.2/hr390
Lebanon$29K$13.71/hr90
Erie$28K$13.48/hr,
Altoona$28K$13.23/hr160
Williamsport$27K$13.2/hr140
Chambersburg$27K$12.99/hr140
Johnstown$27K$12.78/hr160

Childcare Workers salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$27K
Median (50th)
$30K
75th percentile
$36K
90th percentile (senior)
$39K
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Full childcare workers salary breakdown in Pennsylvania
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a childcare workers make in Pennsylvania?

The median childcare workers salary in Pennsylvania is $30,140 per year ($14.49/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $34,980. Salaries range from $22,710 to $39,290.

What are the requirements to become a childcare workers in Pennsylvania?

Childcare Workers positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a childcare workers afford to live in Pennsylvania?

At the median salary of $30,140, a childcare workers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $2,111/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,414/month, that's 67% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for childcare workers in Pennsylvania?

The highest paying metro areas for childcare workers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($34,520), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($32,220), Scranton--Wilkes-Barre ($30,630). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for childcare workers?

Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $30,140 salary, this means roughly $925/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.