How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Pennsylvania
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $63,370/year, which is 1% above the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $2,717/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal assistants 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 paralegals and legal assistantss. 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 14,670 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $70K | $33.86/hr | 11,150 |
| Pittsburgh | $64K | $30.59/hr | 2,620 |
| Lancaster | $62K | $29.7/hr | 330 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $61K | $29.33/hr | 430 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $60K | $29.02/hr | 1,000 |
| Lebanon | $59K | $28.6/hr | 40 |
| York-Hanover | $59K | $28.56/hr | 240 |
| Reading | $59K | $28.16/hr | 200 |
| Johnstown | $58K | $28.07/hr | 50 |
| State College | $58K | $27.73/hr | 80 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $58K | $27.69/hr | 400 |
| Erie | $56K | $26.94/hr | 170 |
| Williamsport | $50K | $24.04/hr | 90 |
| Chambersburg | $49K | $23.79/hr | 100 |
| Altoona | $49K | $23.61/hr | 60 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Pennsylvania
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Pennsylvania is $63,370 per year ($30.47/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $62,890. Salaries range from $45,710 to $96,080.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Associate'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 paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $63,370, a paralegals and legal assistants in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,251/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,534/month, that's 36.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($70,430), Pittsburgh ($63,620), Lancaster ($61,780). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $63,370 salary, this means roughly $1,945/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.