Social Worker Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA
How much does a social worker 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 social worker salaries break down across different pay periods in Wilkes-Barre.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $32,733 | $53,913 | $75,093 |
| Monthly | $2,728 | $4,493 | $6,258 |
| Biweekly | $1,259 | $2,074 | $2,888 |
| Weekly | $629 | $1,037 | $1,444 |
| Hourly | $16 | $26 | $36 |
Wilkes-Barre vs National Average
How Wilkes-Barre's social worker salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre
About Social Worker
Overview
Help individuals and families address social and personal issues.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Social Work; Master's degree often required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
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Social Worker Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a social worker in Wilkes-Barre, PA is $53,913 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 social worker professionals in Wilkes-Barre can expect to earn around $32,733 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level social workers earning approximately $75,093 per year. This represents a 129% 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 $67,560, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a social worker's salary in Wilkes-Barre typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $800 per month, housing represents about 17.8% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Social Workers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% 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.