How to Become a Lawyers in Pennsylvania
Lawyers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $127,940/year, which is 15% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $6,444/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a lawyers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Pennsylvania. 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 lawyerss. 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 26,340 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $148K | $71.17/hr | 18,270 |
| Pittsburgh | $126K | $60.51/hr | 5,600 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $125K | $60.17/hr | 1,910 |
| York-Hanover | $124K | $59.67/hr | 380 |
| Lancaster | $108K | $52.1/hr | 530 |
| Erie | $104K | $50.15/hr | 260 |
| Reading | $103K | $49.43/hr | 420 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $102K | $49.27/hr | 840 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $102K | $49.15/hr | 880 |
| Lebanon | $100K | $48.03/hr | 70 |
| Chambersburg | $98K | $47.16/hr | 90 |
| Gettysburg | $96K | $46.15/hr | 60 |
| Johnstown | $95K | $45.84/hr | 90 |
| State College | $95K | $45.51/hr | 150 |
| Williamsport | $84K | $40.5/hr | 130 |
Lawyers salary range in Pennsylvania
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median lawyers salary in Pennsylvania is $127,940 per year ($61.51/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $62,520 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Pennsylvania?▼
Lawyers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $127,940, a lawyers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $7,856/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($148,030), Pittsburgh ($125,870), Harrisburg-Carlisle ($125,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for lawyers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $127,940 salary, this means roughly $3,928/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.