How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in Pennsylvania
Public Relations Specialists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $59,260/year, which is 15% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $2,574/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a public relations specialists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Specialists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many public relations specialists 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 public relations specialistss. 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 9,260 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Harrisburg-Carlisle and Lebanon.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $70K | $33.45/hr | 770 |
| Lebanon | $68K | $32.75/hr | 60 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $64K | $30.95/hr | 4,810 |
| York-Hanover | $61K | $29.11/hr | 150 |
| Pittsburgh | $57K | $27.31/hr | 1,620 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $56K | $26.78/hr | 360 |
| Altoona | $53K | $25.58/hr | 40 |
| State College | $52K | $25.08/hr | 150 |
| Erie | $52K | $24.99/hr | 120 |
| Reading | $51K | $24.48/hr | 160 |
| Lancaster | $51K | $24.31/hr | 260 |
| Williamsport | $50K | $23.99/hr | 60 |
| Gettysburg | $49K | $23.35/hr | 30 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $48K | $23.1/hr | 240 |
| Johnstown | $47K | $22.48/hr | 50 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in Pennsylvania
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in Pennsylvania is $59,260 per year ($28.49/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $34,720 to $99,110.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in Pennsylvania?▼
Public Relations Specialists 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 public relations specialists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $59,260, a public relations specialists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,986/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in Pennsylvania are Harrisburg-Carlisle ($69,580), Lebanon ($68,120), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($64,380). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $59,260 salary, this means roughly $1,819/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.