How to Become a Physician Assistants in Pennsylvania
Physician Assistants in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $124,880/year, which is 6% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a physician assistants takes home approximately $6,278/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a physician assistants can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a physician assistants in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Physician Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physician 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 physician 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 7,760 physician assistants. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Lebanon.
Physician Assistants salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $130K | $62.62/hr | 3,000 |
| Lebanon | $129K | $62.09/hr | 100 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $128K | $61.6/hr | 460 |
| Reading | $126K | $60.71/hr | 160 |
| Johnstown | $126K | $60.57/hr | 60 |
| State College | $126K | $60.5/hr | 80 |
| Lancaster | $126K | $60.45/hr | 280 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $124K | $59.66/hr | 450 |
| York-Hanover | $123K | $59.17/hr | 260 |
| Chambersburg | $123K | $59.01/hr | 40 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $122K | $58.77/hr | 330 |
| Williamsport | $122K | $58.72/hr | 140 |
| Gettysburg | $122K | $58.43/hr | 40 |
| Altoona | $115K | $55.42/hr | 160 |
| Erie | $113K | $54.19/hr | 140 |
Physician Assistants salary range in Pennsylvania
Physician Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median physician assistants salary in Pennsylvania is $124,880 per year ($60.04/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $133,260. Salaries range from $97,350 to $154,640.
What are the requirements to become a physician assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
Physician Assistants positions in Pennsylvania typically require Master'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 physician assistants afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $124,880, a physician assistants in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $7,690/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physician assistants in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physician assistants in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($130,240), Lebanon ($129,140), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($128,130). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for physician assistants?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $124,880 salary, this means roughly $3,834/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.