Forester Salary in Erie, Pennsylvania
The median forester salary in Erie, PA is $53,584 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 12.5% below the Pennsylvania state average.
Forester Pay in Erie: What to Expect (2026)
Erie offers a median forester salary of $53,584, which is $7,654 below the Pennsylvania state average of $61,238. Compared to the national median of $63,790, Erie pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Erie's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $53,584 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $63,790 in an average-cost city. This makes Erie an attractive option for foresters seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for foresters in Erie spans from $35,280 at the 10th percentile to $85,680 at the 90th percentile — a $50,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,960, while senior foresters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,800. Erie is a smaller market (pop. 94,831), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Forester Salary in Erie by Experience
In Erie, an entry-level forester earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Erie, PA
| Percentile | Erie |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,840 |
| Median (50th) | $53,584 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,680 |
Forester Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Forester in Erie
Education
Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. Erie and the surrounding Pennsylvania area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Erie may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Forester Jobs in Erie
Browse open forester positions in Erie, PA: