School Counselor Salary in Pennsylvania
The median school counselor salary in Pennsylvania is $57,734 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $60,140.
School Counselor Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for school counselor compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for school counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $57,734 per year, school counselors in Pennsylvania earn $2,406 less than the national median of $60,140.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning school counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: school counselors at the 10th percentile earn $36,672, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $91,008 — a $54,336 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 $61,343.
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for school counselors across the country.
School Counselor Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level school counselor earns around $38,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,600 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,672 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,120 |
| Median (50th) | $57,734 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,152 |
| 90th Percentile | $91,008 |
School Counselor Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for school counselors in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a School Counselor in Pennsylvania
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, school counselor 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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