Nuclear Engineer Salary in Pennsylvania
The median nuclear engineer salary in Pennsylvania is $115,565 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for nuclear engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $115,565 per year, nuclear engineers in Pennsylvania earn $4,815 less than the national median of $120,380.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning nuclear engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $72,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $170,880 — a $97,920 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 $122,788.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $74,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,120 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,160 |
| Median (50th) | $115,565 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $170,880 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for nuclear engineers in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Pennsylvania
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $49,555 over your career trajectory.
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