How to Become a Healthcare Social Workers in Pennsylvania
Healthcare Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $63,010/year, which is 7% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a healthcare social workers takes home approximately $2,816/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a healthcare social workers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a healthcare social workers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Healthcare Social Workers 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 healthcare 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 healthcare 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 6,560 healthcare social workers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and State College.
Healthcare Social Workers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $71K | $34.24/hr | 3,270 |
| State College | $66K | $31.56/hr | 40 |
| Williamsport | $65K | $31.21/hr | 50 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $65K | $31.07/hr | 370 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $63K | $30.29/hr | 430 |
| Lancaster | $63K | $30.2/hr | 220 |
| York-Hanover | $63K | $30.08/hr | 140 |
| Reading | $62K | $29.91/hr | 130 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $62K | $29.7/hr | 260 |
| Johnstown | $62K | $29.64/hr | 40 |
| Pittsburgh | $61K | $29.38/hr | 1,570 |
| Chambersburg | $60K | $29/hr | 40 |
| Erie | $59K | $28.42/hr | 130 |
| Lebanon | $57K | $27.31/hr | 60 |
| Altoona | $56K | $26.98/hr | 60 |
Healthcare Social Workers salary range in Pennsylvania
Healthcare Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a healthcare social workers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median healthcare social workers salary in Pennsylvania is $63,010 per year ($30.3/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $68,090. Salaries range from $47,640 to $85,250.
What are the requirements to become a healthcare social workers in Pennsylvania?▼
Healthcare Social Workers 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 healthcare social workers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $63,010, a healthcare social workers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,228/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for healthcare social workers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for healthcare social workers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($71,220), State College ($65,640), Williamsport ($64,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for healthcare social workers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $63,010 salary, this means roughly $1,934/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.