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Arts & Media · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Set and Exhibit Designers in Pennsylvania

Set and Exhibit Designers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $48,010/year, which is 28% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a set and exhibit designers takes home approximately $1,850/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$48K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-28%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
130
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a set and exhibit designers can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$48,010
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$3,262/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home43.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$48,010/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,850/mo

Becoming a set and exhibit designers in Pennsylvania

1

Meet education requirements

Set and Exhibit Designers 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 set and exhibit designers 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 set and exhibit designerss. 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 130 set and exhibit designers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.

Set and Exhibit Designers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$54K$25.99/hr100
Pittsburgh$44K$21.11/hr30

Set and Exhibit Designers salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$39K
Median (50th)
$48K
75th percentile
$77K
90th percentile (senior)
$122K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a set and exhibit designers make in Pennsylvania?

The median set and exhibit designers salary in Pennsylvania is $48,010 per year ($23.08/hr). This is 28% below the national median of $66,280. Salaries range from $31,070 to $122,140.

What are the requirements to become a set and exhibit designers in Pennsylvania?

Set and Exhibit Designers 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 set and exhibit designers afford to live in Pennsylvania?

At the median salary of $48,010, a set and exhibit designers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,262/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for set and exhibit designers in Pennsylvania?

The highest paying metro areas for set and exhibit designers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($54,070), Pittsburgh ($43,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for set and exhibit designers?

Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $48,010 salary, this means roughly $1,474/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.