Salaries in Scranton, PA

Here’s a fun fact about Scranton that most people miss: you can make a six-figure salary here as a marketing manager and you’d still be earning less than your counterpart in Philadelphia—on paper. The twist is your dollar goes so much further that you might actually live better.

Let’s talk real purchasing power. Scranton’s cost of living index sits at 93.0, meaning everything from groceries to utilities is about 7% cheaper than the national average. A one-bedroom apartment costs you $854 a month, and with a median household income of $41,601, that’s roughly 25% of your pre-tax income going to rent. Compare that to a major metro where rent would devour half your paycheck. The COL-adjusted average salary here bumps up to $73,119, which feels like a meaningful lift when you’re shopping for a house or paying down student loans.

So who actually thrives here? Scranton’s economy is anchored by healthcare, education, and a surprising amount of tech and marketing. The University of Scranton and regional hospital systems are huge employers. But the real story is in the top-paying jobs: software developers and marketing managers pulling in over $120,000, and pharmacists clearing $133,000. That’s not a fluke; it’s a sign of a region investing in skilled roles without the coastal price tag.

Now, the honest take. Wages here haven’t been shooting up, but they’re stable, and the 3.7% unemployment rate means jobs are available. The catch? If you’re looking for the kind of rapid career acceleration you see in a tech hub, Scranton might feel slow. This city works best if you value a lower-stress lifestyle and financial breathing room over chasing the highest possible nominal salary.

The numbers below will show you exactly where you stand in this quiet, affordable corner of Pennsylvania.