Allentown vs Bethlehem: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Bethlehem, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,576 | $68,198▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.01 | $32.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,631▲ | $47,094 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,049 | $53,273▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,456 | $87,294▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $141,519▲ | $105,707 |
| Total Employed | 730▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Allentown and Bethlehem are closely matched on overall plumber compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Allentown and Bethlehem is $1,622 (2.44%). Bethlehem's median is +4.27% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $93,888,Bethlehem spans $58,613. Allentown has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bethlehem ($70,018 effective) pays 5.14% more than Allentown ($66,597 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,519)
- ✓Larger job market (730 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Bethlehem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,198/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,018)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in Allentown grew 19.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.8% growth in Bethlehem over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$54,250 (2019) → $64,940 (2025)
Bethlehem, PA
$69,142 (2024) → $66,522 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Bethlehem, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: Allentown or Bethlehem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and Bethlehem?
Should I relocate from Allentown to Bethlehem as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in Allentown vs Bethlehem?
Related Comparisons
Written by Samuel Torres, CWP
Career Analyst
Samuel Torres has 10 years of experience in plumbing. He specializes in residential plumbing systems. He has worked with several home improvement companies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.52% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Torres, CWP, a licensed plumber with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov