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Arts & Media · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Music Directors and Composers in Pennsylvania

Music Directors and Composers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $61,160/year, which is 17% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a music directors and composers takes home approximately $704/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$61K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-17%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
580
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a music directors and composers can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$61,160
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$4,109/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$3,405/mo
Rent as % of take-home82.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,160/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$704/mo

Becoming a music directors and composers in Pennsylvania

1

Meet education requirements

Music Directors and Composers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many music directors and composers 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 music directors and composerss. 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 580 music directors and composers. The highest concentrations are in Scranton--Wilkes-Barre and Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton.

Music Directors and Composers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Scranton--Wilkes-Barre$74K$35.39/hr40
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton$72K$34.52/hr40
Lancaster$71K$34.18/hr40
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$61K$29.41/hr250
Pittsburgh$58K$27.72/hr90

Music Directors and Composers salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$61K
75th percentile
$79K
90th percentile (senior)
$109K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a music directors and composers make in Pennsylvania?

The median music directors and composers salary in Pennsylvania is $61,160 per year ($29.41/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $73,710. Salaries range from $36,540 to $109,380.

What are the requirements to become a music directors and composers in Pennsylvania?

Music Directors and Composers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor'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 music directors and composers afford to live in Pennsylvania?

At the median salary of $61,160, a music directors and composers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,109/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $3,405/month, that's 82.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for music directors and composers in Pennsylvania?

The highest paying metro areas for music directors and composers in Pennsylvania are Scranton--Wilkes-Barre ($73,610), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($71,800), Lancaster ($71,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for music directors and composers?

Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $61,160 salary, this means roughly $1,878/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.