How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Pennsylvania
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $61,460/year, which is 6% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,716/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. 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 11,500 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in York-Hanover and Gettysburg.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| York-Hanover | $74K | $35.67/hr | 230 |
| Gettysburg | $71K | $33.92/hr | 90 |
| State College | $69K | $33.21/hr | 310 |
| Lancaster | $68K | $32.7/hr | 370 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $67K | $32.18/hr | 6,420 |
| Chambersburg | $66K | $31.79/hr | 70 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $65K | $31.05/hr | 850 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $62K | $29.96/hr | 530 |
| Reading | $61K | $29.52/hr | 300 |
| Altoona | $61K | $29.33/hr | 90 |
| Pittsburgh | $60K | $28.98/hr | 2,310 |
| Lebanon | $59K | $28.43/hr | 90 |
| Williamsport | $58K | $28.08/hr | 90 |
| Erie | $56K | $26.96/hr | 190 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $56K | $26.94/hr | 610 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Pennsylvania
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Pennsylvania is $61,460 per year ($29.55/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $45,440 to $99,850.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master'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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $61,460, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,128/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania are York-Hanover ($74,190), Gettysburg ($70,560), State College ($69,070). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $61,460 salary, this means roughly $1,887/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.