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Production & Manufacturing · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Machinists in Pennsylvania

Machinists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $57,810/year, which is 2% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a machinists takes home approximately $2,694/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$58K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-2%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
12,380
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a machinists can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$57,810
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$3,893/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$1,199/mo
Rent as % of take-home30.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$57,810/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,694/mo

Becoming a machinists in Pennsylvania

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

Find positions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs 12,380 machinists. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.

Machinists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$61K$29.46/hr3,330
Reading$60K$28.63/hr440
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton$59K$28.53/hr630
Williamsport$58K$28.01/hr80
Lancaster$57K$27.26/hr560
Harrisburg-Carlisle$56K$26.96/hr360
Pittsburgh$56K$26.86/hr2,760
Erie$55K$26.5/hr640
Johnstown$55K$26.4/hr150
York-Hanover$53K$25.62/hr540
Altoona$53K$25.32/hr120
Lebanon$53K$25.3/hr170
State College$51K$24.47/hr120
Scranton--Wilkes-Barre$50K$23.97/hr430
Chambersburg$48K$23.27/hr190

Machinists salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$40K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$58K
75th percentile
$64K
90th percentile (senior)
$77K
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Full machinists salary breakdown in Pennsylvania
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Machinists careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a machinists make in Pennsylvania?

The median machinists salary in Pennsylvania is $57,810 per year ($27.79/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $58,750. Salaries range from $39,620 to $77,090.

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 $57,810, a machinists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,893/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,199/month, that's 30.8% 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 ($61,280), Reading ($59,550), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($59,330). 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 $57,810 salary, this means roughly $1,775/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.