How to Become a Urban and Regional Planners in Pennsylvania
Urban and Regional Planners in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $75,250/year, which is 10% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a urban and regional planners takes home approximately $3,506/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a urban and regional planners can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a urban and regional planners in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners 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 urban and regional plannerss. 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 1,090 urban and regional planners. The highest concentrations are in Reading and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington.
Urban and Regional Planners salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | $79K | $38.08/hr | 40 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $79K | $38.01/hr | 600 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $78K | $37.36/hr | 80 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $76K | $36.68/hr | 40 |
| Pittsburgh | $76K | $36.55/hr | 200 |
| Lancaster | $76K | $36.48/hr | 40 |
| York-Hanover | $63K | $30.28/hr | 40 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $62K | $29.78/hr | 40 |
Urban and Regional Planners salary range in Pennsylvania
Urban and Regional Planners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a urban and regional planners make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median urban and regional planners salary in Pennsylvania is $75,250 per year ($36.18/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $83,720. Salaries range from $48,670 to $106,710.
What are the requirements to become a urban and regional planners in Pennsylvania?▼
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $75,250, a urban and regional planners in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $4,918/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for urban and regional planners in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for urban and regional planners in Pennsylvania are Reading ($79,210), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($79,050), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($77,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for urban and regional planners?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $75,250 salary, this means roughly $2,310/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.