Political Scientists in Pennsylvania
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Pennsylvania | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,640 | $139,380 | -4.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 16 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 90 jobs | 5,950 jobs | 1.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $75,420 | $36.26 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,990 | $50.48 |
| Median | $132,640 | $63.77 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,090 | $76.97 |
| 90th Percentile | $192,420 | $92.51 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Political Scientists in Pennsylvania in 2026?
With a median salary of $132,640 in Pennsylvania and a 2016–2024 salary trend of +22.3%, political scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can political scientists increase their salary in Pennsylvania?
Political Scientists in Pennsylvania can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Pennsylvania currently ranks #5 out of 16 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Political Scientists in Pennsylvania?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $151,630 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $146,620 |
| Scientific Research and Development Services | $132,460 |
How are Political Scientists paid in Pennsylvania compared to the national average?
The median salary for Political Scientists in Pennsylvania is $132,640, which is 4.8% below the national median of $139,380.