How to Become a Machinists in Pennsylvania
Machinists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $52,560/year, which is 6% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a machinists takes home approximately $2,143/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a machinists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a machinists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Machinists 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.
Gain required experience
Many machinists 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 machinistss. 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 15,060 machinists. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.
Machinists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $60K | $28.61/hr | 3,960 |
| Reading | $58K | $28/hr | 460 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $57K | $27.58/hr | 750 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $54K | $26.02/hr | 490 |
| York-Hanover | $52K | $24.79/hr | 550 |
| Altoona | $51K | $24.54/hr | 120 |
| Williamsport | $51K | $24.3/hr | 120 |
| Pittsburgh | $50K | $24.06/hr | 3,090 |
| Lebanon | $50K | $24/hr | 260 |
| Johnstown | $50K | $23.97/hr | 150 |
| State College | $50K | $23.87/hr | 180 |
| Lancaster | $49K | $23.75/hr | 670 |
| Chambersburg | $49K | $23.72/hr | 330 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $49K | $23.63/hr | 620 |
| Erie | $49K | $23.53/hr | 740 |
Machinists salary range in Pennsylvania
Machinists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a machinists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median machinists salary in Pennsylvania is $52,560 per year ($25.27/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $56,150. Salaries range from $37,520 to $75,240.
What are the requirements to become a machinists in Pennsylvania?▼
Machinists 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 machinists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $52,560, a machinists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,555/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 39.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for machinists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for machinists in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($59,500), Reading ($58,240), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($57,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for machinists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $52,560 salary, this means roughly $1,614/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.