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Average Buyers and Purchasing Agents Salary in State College, PA

In State College, PA, Buyers and Purchasing Agents earn an average annual salary of $68,790. This figure is notably below the national average of $80,070, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different industry focus in the region influence compensation for these roles. The specific economic landscape of State College plays a crucial role in shaping these salary expectations.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $68,790 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 5.1% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $106,010.
  • Outlook: The local job market for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in State College, PA, shows a moderate level of concentration, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.12, slightly above the national average. With a total local workforce of 240 individuals in this profession, the demand appears stable, though not exceptionally high. The presence of 3.525 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent, albeit not rapidly expanding, need for these procurement specialists within the State College area.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$68,790

The average Buyers and Purchasing Agents in State College, PA earns-14.1%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$33.1

Weekly

$1,323

Monthly

$5,733

Buyers and Purchasing Agents Salary Distribution in State College, PA

Career progression for Buyers and Purchasing Agents significantly impacts earning potential. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, often around the 25th percentile. As professionals gain experience, develop specialized skills, and take on more responsibility, their salaries advance, moving towards the median (50th percentile) and eventually to senior or lead roles, which can command salaries at the 75th percentile and above. These percentile gaps are clear indicators of career advancement opportunities and the associated salary increases.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff.10% (Entry)$41,390$19.9
Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction.25% (Junior)$51,593$24.8
ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery.50% (Median)$65,120$31.3
Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management.75% (Senior)$85,988$41.3
Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations.90% (Expert)$106,010$51

Detailed Buyers and Purchasing Agents Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$68,790

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$68,790

Adjusted for COL (100)

The nominal average salary of $68,790 in State College, PA, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is comparable to the national average; what you can buy with $68,790 in State College is roughly equivalent to what you could buy with the national average salary elsewhere. Therefore, while the salary is below the national average, the cost of living does not present a significant disadvantage in terms of real income.

Job Market Context

240

Total Jobs

3.525

Per 1K Jobs

1.12

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.12, State College, PA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Buyers and Purchasing Agents roles compared to the national norm.

A Location Quotient of 1.12 indicates that Buyers and Purchasing Agents are slightly more concentrated in State College, PA, than the national average. This suggests a moderately competitive market where the demand for these professionals is present and perhaps slightly stronger relative to the general workforce. While not an indicator of an oversaturated market, it implies that employers in State College have a consistent need for these roles, making it a viable location for those in this field.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Buyers and Purchasing Agents make in State College, PA?

The median annual salary for a Buyers and Purchasing Agents in State College, PA is $68,790. This typically ranges from $41,390 for entry-level positions to $106,010 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in State College, PA is 14.1% lower than the national median of $80,070.

Is State College, PA a lucrative place for Buyers and Purchasing Agents?

No, it is not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $68,790 is below the national average of $80,070. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning the salary's purchasing power is comparable.

Is State College, PA a good place to live for Buyers and Purchasing Agents?

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 ($66,820) and Northwestern Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area.

How does the local workforce size affect job opportunities?

A local workforce of 240 Buyers and Purchasing Agents suggests a stable, established presence of this profession in State College, indicating consistent opportunities rather than rapid expansion.

What does a Location Quotient of 1.12 mean for job seekers?

A Location Quotient slightly above 1.0 signifies a slightly higher concentration of these jobs in State College compared to the national average, implying a healthy, though not booming, job market.

How does experience influence salary for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in State College?

Experienced professionals can expect significantly higher salaries than entry-level workers, with senior roles commanding top-tier compensation reflective of their expertise and responsibilities.

Is the cost of living in State College a concern for Buyers and Purchasing Agents?

With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the cost of living in State College is average nationally, meaning the $68,790 salary offers typical purchasing power.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 240 employees in the State College, PA area with a job density of 3.525 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.