Social Worker Salary in Philadelphia
2026 compensation data for Social Worker positions in Philadelphia, PA. Ranges from $41,000 (entry-level) to $90,000 (senior). Median: $59,000.
Median (Mid)
$59,000
$28.37/hr
vs National
+5%
US: $56,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$90,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $41,000 | $47,000 | $53,000 | $22.6/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $51,000 | $59,000 | $69,000 | $28.37/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $66,000 | $77,000 | $90,000 | $37.02/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Philadelphia
A mid-level social worker earning $59,000 in Philadelphia has the same buying power as $54,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 110).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Social Worker Salaries in Philadelphia
The median social worker salary in Philadelphia, PA is $59,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 110 (national average = 100), Philadelphia offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level social workers in Philadelphia can expect to earn between $41,000 and $53,000 (about $22.6/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $90,000 ($90K annually, or about $43.27/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Philadelphia.
Frequently Asked Questions: Social Worker Salary in Philadelphia
What is the average Social Worker salary in Philadelphia?+
The average Social Worker salary in Philadelphia is $59,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $47,000 and senior-level pay reaches $77,000.
How much does an entry-level social worker make in Philadelphia?+
Entry-level social workers in Philadelphia earn between $41,000 and $53,000, with a median of $47,000 per year (about $22.6/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Social Worker in Philadelphia?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Social Worker in Philadelphia earns roughly $22.6/hour at entry-level, $28.37/hour at mid-level, and $37.02/hour at senior-level.
Is the Social Worker salary in Philadelphia higher than the US average?+
Yes — Social Worker salaries in Philadelphia are about 5% higher than the US national median of $56,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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