Pittsburgh vs Scranton: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between Pittsburgh, PA and Scranton, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pittsburgh, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,867▲ | $62,701 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.55▲ | $30.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,092▲ | $44,791 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,286▲ | $49,158 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,009▲ | $74,091 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,588▲ | $100,623 |
| Total Employed | 2,910▲ | 450 |
Verdict
Pittsburgh, PA offers better overall compensation for plumbers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Scranton.
The salary gap between Pittsburgh and Scranton is $9,166 (14.62%). Pittsburgh's median is +9.87% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pittsburgh spans $62,496,Scranton spans $55,832. Pittsburgh 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, Pittsburgh ($75,912 effective) pays 13.27% more than Scranton ($67,020 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,867/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,588)
- ✓Larger job market (2,910 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,912)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Scranton if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in Pittsburgh grew 15.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 38.2% growth in Scranton over the same period.
Pittsburgh, PA
$60,550 (2019) → $70,100 (2025)
Scranton, PA
$44,240 (2019) → $61,160 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Scranton, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: Pittsburgh or Scranton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pittsburgh and Scranton?
Should I relocate from Pittsburgh to Scranton as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in Pittsburgh vs Scranton?
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