What is the average salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
The average yearly salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA, stands at $52,887. This figure offers a good benchmark for job seekers exploring opportunities in the area. Most people find jobs in key sectors, earning wages that align with local economic standards.
Jobs in Wilkes-Barre span various industries, with the majority falling into these categories:
- Retail: 27.74%
- Healthcare: 25.50%
- Manufacturing: 12.27%
- Education: 8.21%
- Construction: 5.70%
- Information Technology: 7.73%
- Finance: 2.61%
- Legal: 1.72%
- Hospitality: 1.80%
- Arts and Entertainment: 1.06%
- Other: 0.66%
What are the best paying jobs in Wilkes-Barre, PA?

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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $107,193
Radiologic technologists work in medical facilities, taking imaging exams to help doctors diagnose issues. They use advanced equipment to ensure accurate results. Positions are available in clinics and hospitals, including Geisinger.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $96,878
Traveling nurses provide care in various settings, often in response to staffing shortages. They can work in hospitals, clinics, and even schools. Companies like Travel Nurse Across America offer such roles.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $84,271
Registered nurses play a crucial role in patient care. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, ensuring patients receive the best care. Local healthcare providers often have openings for skilled nurses.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $79,122
CDL drivers transport goods by truck. They need to follow strict safety rules and deliver goods on time. Companies in logistics and manufacturing, like XPO Logistics, often need experienced drivers.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $68,255
Licensed practical nurses offer basic patient care. They work in nursing homes, hospitals, and clinics. They provide essential support to registered nurses and doctors, helping with patient needs.
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Technician
Average Salary: $65,201
Technicians maintain and repair equipment in various industries. They need to be skilled in using tools and diagnosing problems. Jobs are available in manufacturing, automotive, and healthcare sectors.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $63,576
General managers oversee business operations. They ensure daily activities run smoothly and meet goals. They handle staff, budgets, and customer service. Retail and hospitality sectors often need strong leaders.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $52,579
Maintenance technicians fix and maintain buildings and equipment. They ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. They work in offices, schools, and factories. Companies need skilled technicians to keep operations running.
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Automotive Technician
Average Salary: $52,427
Automotive technicians diagnose and repair vehicles. They use their skills to ensure cars run well. They work in dealerships and repair shops. Knowledgeable technicians help customers keep their vehicles in top shape.
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Program Specialist
Average Salary: $48,436
Program specialists manage specific programs. They coordinate activities and ensure goals are met. They work in government, nonprofits, and corporations. Effective communication and organizational skills are key to success.
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What are the best paying jobs in Wilkes-Barre, PA without a degree?

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Canvasser
Average Salary: $47,233
Canvassers visit homes and businesses to gather data, often for political campaigns or surveys. They speak with residents to understand opinions and preferences. Key employers include campaign organizations and research firms.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $31,470
Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook meals in fast-paced restaurant kitchens. They work quickly and efficiently to meet demands. Opportunities exist at local restaurants and cafes.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,281
Baristas serve coffee and other beverages in coffee shops. They take orders, prepare drinks, and create custom coffee drinks. Popular employers include local coffee chains and boutique coffee shops.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $30,252
Housekeepers clean and maintain guest rooms in hotels. They change linens, tidy up spaces, and ensure rooms meet cleanliness standards. They work at various hotels and motels in the area.
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Server
Average Salary: $28,431
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers in restaurants. They handle customer inquiries and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Employment opportunities span multiple dining establishments.
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Laundry Aide
Average Salary: $27,382
Laundry aides wash, dry, and fold clothing for guests in hotels. They operate laundry machines and ensure items are returned clean and wrinkle-free. They are needed at various hotels and motels.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,247
Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They ensure all items are sanitized and ready for reuse. This role is available in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Wilkes-Barre, PA?

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Average Salary: $96,614
Offering a range of jobs, from healthcare to administrative roles, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to supporting veterans and their families. It is a government agency and offers competitive salaries, benefits, and job stability.
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Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
Average Salary: $90,069
GUARD is a leading provider of insurance solutions. It offers a variety of job opportunities, including positions in claims, underwriting, and customer service. Employees benefit from excellent benefits and professional growth opportunities.
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PAM Health
Average Salary: $77,755
Specializing in long-term acute care hospitals, PAM Health provides comprehensive medical services. The company focuses on patient care and offers rewarding careers in healthcare, with opportunities for advancement.
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NURSE+NETWORK
Average Salary: $74,067
NURSE+NETWORK is a staffing agency that connects nurses with healthcare facilities. It offers high-paying jobs for nurses, with a focus on flexible schedules and travel opportunities.
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Chewy
Average Salary: $70,382
As a leading online pet supply retailer, Chewy offers a variety of roles from customer service to logistics. It is known for its pet-friendly workplace culture and offers competitive salaries along with benefits.
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Geisinger
Average Salary: $65,154
Geisinger is a healthcare provider with numerous job openings in clinical and administrative roles. It emphasizes patient care and offers robust benefits and a supportive work environment.
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RIVER STREET MANOR
Average Salary: $64,139
River Street Manor offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. It provides rewarding careers in healthcare, with a focus on patient well-being and professional development.
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Logoplaste
Average Salary: $56,825
Logoplaste manufactures plastic containers and produces recycled plastic materials. It offers jobs in production, engineering, and administrative roles, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
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Allied Services
Average Salary: $54,233
Allied Services offers a wide range of healthcare and human services. The company provides jobs in nursing, therapy, and administrative roles, with a commitment to community health and support.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $52,592
A leading health services company, CVS Health provides jobs in retail, pharmacy, and healthcare services. It offers competitive salaries and a variety of benefits to its employees.
How does the cost of living in Wilkes-Barre, PA compare to the national average?

Wilkes-Barre, PA, offers a cost of living index that is relatively lower than the nationwide average. The citywide cost of living index sits at 89, which is 11% below the national average of 100. This means that, overall, residents in Wilkes-Barre can expect to spend about 11% less on their living expenses when compared to the average American.
Breaking down the specifics, housing costs in Wilkes-Barre are 15% lower than the national average, with an index of 85. This translates to more affordable housing options for those moving to the area. Groceries, another significant expense, show only a slight difference with an index of 95, which is 5% below the average. Utilities cost 10% less, aligning with an index of 90, while transportation costs are 8% less, with an index of 92. Healthcare costs are close to average at 93, only 7% below the national norm. Miscellaneous expenses also show a modest decrease, with an index of 88, which is 12% below the average. This balanced distribution of costs makes Wilkes-Barre an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle.



