How to Become a Software Developers in Pennsylvania
Software Developers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $123,740/year, which is 7% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a software developers takes home approximately $6,216/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a software developers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a software developers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Software Developers 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 software developers 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 software developerss. 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 47,350 software developers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.
Software Developers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $131K | $62.82/hr | 26,150 |
| Pittsburgh | $122K | $58.82/hr | 8,820 |
| Reading | $117K | $56.25/hr | 490 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $112K | $54.01/hr | 1,360 |
| Chambersburg | $112K | $53.8/hr | 150 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $111K | $53.3/hr | 700 |
| Lebanon | $107K | $51.41/hr | 50 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $107K | $51.29/hr | 2,120 |
| Gettysburg | $105K | $50.7/hr | 30 |
| Lancaster | $104K | $49.78/hr | 660 |
| State College | $103K | $49.7/hr | 370 |
| York-Hanover | $103K | $49.67/hr | 480 |
| Erie | $98K | $47.34/hr | 360 |
| Johnstown | $97K | $46.71/hr | 110 |
| Altoona | $97K | $46.69/hr | 150 |
Software Developers salary range in Pennsylvania
Software Developers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a software developers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median software developers salary in Pennsylvania is $123,740 per year ($59.49/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $133,080. Salaries range from $73,730 to $167,290.
What are the requirements to become a software developers in Pennsylvania?▼
Software Developers 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 software developers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $123,740, a software developers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $7,628/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for software developers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for software developers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($130,670), Pittsburgh ($122,350), Reading ($116,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for software developers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $123,740 salary, this means roughly $3,799/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.