Science & Research Pennsylvania (PA) Rank #23 of 50

Geologist Salary in Pennsylvania

The median geologist salary in Pennsylvania is $80,333 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$80,333
vs National
$-3,347
State Rank
#23 of 50
Cost of Living
96%

Geologist Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)

Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for geologist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $80,333 per year, geologists in Pennsylvania earn $3,347 less than the national median of $83,680.

Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning geologist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $48,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $142,080 — a $93,120 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $85,354.

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for geologists across the country.

Geologist Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience

In Pennsylvania, an entry-level geologist earns around $51,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,400 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$51,840
$-2,160 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$81,600
$-3,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$134,400
$-5,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania

Percentile PA Salary
10th Percentile $48,960
25th Percentile $60,480
Median (50th) $80,333
75th Percentile $107,520
90th Percentile $142,080

Geologist Salary by City in Pennsylvania

The largest employment areas for geologists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Pennsylvania

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Pennsylvania

How much does a Geologist make in Pennsylvania? ▼
The median geologist salary in Pennsylvania is $80,333 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $48,960 (10th percentile) to $142,080 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Pennsylvania? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $80,333, a geologist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Pennsylvania a good state for geologists? ▼
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 96% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $51,840, while senior professionals earn $134,400.
How does Pennsylvania compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Pennsylvania's median of $80,333 ranks #23 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Nevada ($81,170) and Utah ($81,170).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Pennsylvania? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $51,840 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $81,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $134,400.
What city in Pennsylvania pays geologists the most? ▼
Philadelphia is the highest paying city in Pennsylvania for geologists, with a median salary of $85,354. Other cities include Pittsburgh and Allentown.