Public Defender Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA
How much does a public defender make in Wilkes-Barre? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Wilkes-Barre's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how public defender salaries break down across different pay periods in Wilkes-Barre.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $63,393 | $99,965 | $140,196 |
| Monthly | $5,283 | $8,330 | $11,683 |
| Biweekly | $2,438 | $3,845 | $5,392 |
| Weekly | $1,219 | $1,922 | $2,696 |
| Hourly | $30 | $48 | $67 |
Wilkes-Barre vs National Average
How Wilkes-Barre's public defender salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre
About Public Defender
Overview
Defend individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD) and Bar license required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +13% over the next decade
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Public Defender Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a public defender in Wilkes-Barre, PA is $99,965 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 84. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Wilkes-Barre's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level public defender professionals in Wilkes-Barre can expect to earn around $63,393 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level public defenders earning approximately $140,196 per year. This represents a 121% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Wilkes-Barre's cost of living index of 84 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Wilkes-Barre are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $125,270, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a public defender's salary in Wilkes-Barre typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $800 per month, housing represents about 9.6% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Public Defenders are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 13% over the next decade. In Wilkes-Barre, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.