Average Architecture and Engineering Occupations Salary in State College, PA
In State College, PA, professionals in Architecture and Engineering Occupations earn an average annual salary of $92,850. This figure is notably below the national average of $103,510, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as industry demand and the specific types of projects prevalent in the region, may influence compensation levels.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $92,850 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $140,920.
- Outlook: The Architecture and Engineering sector in State College, PA, is supported by a local workforce of 1,900 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 1.66, this occupation group is more concentrated in State College than the national average, indicating a robust local presence and potentially sustained demand for these specialized skills within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Architecture and Engineering Occupations in State College, PA earns-10.3%below the national average.
$44.6
$1,786
$7,738
Architecture and Engineering Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Architecture and Engineering Occupations in State College, PA, have experienced growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic development and increased project activity in the region likely contribute to upward pressure on compensation, reflecting a maturing and evolving job market.
Architecture and Engineering Occupations Salary Distribution in State College, PA
Experience plays a crucial role in salary progression within Architecture and Engineering Occupations. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while senior engineers and architects with extensive project management experience and specialized expertise can earn significantly more. The widening salary gap between junior and senior roles reflects the increasing value placed on experience and leadership in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase. | 10% (Entry) | $54,830 | $26.4 |
| Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently. | 25% (Junior) | $69,638 | $33.5 |
| Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring. | 50% (Median) | $87,100 | $41.9 |
| Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact. | 75% (Senior) | $116,063 | $55.8 |
| Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation. | 90% (Expert) | $140,920 | $67.8 |
Detailed Architecture and Engineering Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$92,850
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$92,850
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $92,850 in State College, PA, aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living (index of 100). This means that the purchasing power of an engineer's salary in State College is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
1,900
Total Jobs
27.677
Per 1K Jobs
1.66
Location Quotient
State College, PA has 1.7x the national concentration of Architecture and Engineering Occupations jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
A Location Quotient of 1.66 signifies that Architecture and Engineering Occupations are 66% more concentrated in State College, PA, than the national average. This suggests a strong and established presence of these professionals, indicating a healthy demand and a competitive market where specialized talent is valued.
Nearby Job Markets
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Comparing salaries near State College, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Architecture and Engineering Occupations make in State College, PA?
The median annual salary for a Architecture and Engineering Occupations in State College, PA is $92,850. This typically ranges from $54,830 for entry-level positions to $140,920 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in State College, PA is 10.3% lower than the national median of $103,510.
Is State College, PA a lucrative place for Architecture and Engineering Occupationss?
No, not when compared to the national average.While the average salary of $92,850 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $103,510. However, the cost of living being at the national average neutralizes this difference in purchasing power.
Is State College, PA a good place to live for Architecture and Engineering Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in State College, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near State College, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Altoona, PA ($85,180) and Northwestern Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area.
How does the local workforce size impact the job market?
A local workforce of 1,900 in Architecture and Engineering Occupations suggests a significant concentration of talent and potential for collaboration and competition within State College, PA.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.66 mean for engineers in State College?
A Location Quotient of 1.66 indicates that Architecture and Engineering Occupations are more prevalent in State College, PA, than the national average, suggesting a strong local industry presence and demand for these roles.
How does the cost of living affect the perceived salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the national average, the $92,850 salary in State College, PA, offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a stable financial environment.
Are there more engineering jobs per capita in State College compared to the nation?
With 27.677 jobs per 1,000 workers, State College, PA, has a higher density of Architecture and Engineering Occupations compared to the national average, indicating a strong local job market for these professionals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,900 employees in the State College, PA area with a job density of 27.677 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Architecture and Engineering Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in State College, PA