Pennsylvania Paycheck Calculator
Calculate your take-home pay after federal and PA state taxes. Pennsylvania uses a flat 3.07% income tax rate — but watch out for local EIT and the 401(k) rule. Free, instant, and always up to date.
Pennsylvania Paycheck Calculator
2025 tax year · estimate
How Pennsylvania taxes your paycheck
Pennsylvania has one of the simplest state income tax systems: a flat rate of 3.07% on all taxable compensation. There are no progressive brackets, and filing status does not affect the rate.
Key differences from other states:
- 401(k) is NOT pre-tax for PA — Your 401(k) reduces federal tax but NOT PA state tax
- Health insurance and HSA/FSA contributions are pre-tax for PA
- No state-level withholding allowances or standard deduction
- Local Earned Income Tax (EIT) applies in most municipalities
In addition to state income tax, PA employees also pay:
- Federal income tax (10%–37%)
- Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100)
- Medicare (1.45% + 0.9% over $200k)
- Local Earned Income Tax (0.5%–3.74% depending on municipality)
Pennsylvania Local Earned Income Tax (EIT) rates
Common municipalities — check with your local tax collector for exact rates
| Municipality | Resident Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 3.74% | Highest in PA; also has separate wage tax |
| Pittsburgh | 3.00% | Includes city + school district portions |
| Scranton | 3.40% | City + school district combined |
| Reading | 3.60% | Among highest outside Philadelphia |
| Allentown | 1.975% | City + school district combined |
| Harrisburg | 2.00% | State capital |
| Erie | 1.68% | City + school district combined |
| Most suburbs | 1.0%–1.5% | Varies by municipality & school district |
Example: $3,000 biweekly paycheck in Pennsylvania
Scenario: $200 401(k), $150 health insurance, 1.5% local EIT
PA state tax is on full gross ($3,000 × 3.07% ÷ 1 = $92.10 annualized). 401(k) does NOT reduce PA tax. Amounts are per pay period.
Who uses this calculator
PA employees
Verify your paycheck, understand the 401(k) rule, and check local EIT withholding.
Job seekers
Compare offers — local EIT can make a big difference in take-home pay across PA cities.
Payroll admins
Cross-check PA flat tax and local EIT calculations for employees in different municipalities.
Philadelphia workers
Understand the 3.74% wage tax and how it stacks on top of federal and state taxes.
Remote workers
PA taxes income based on where you live. Know your take-home before relocating within PA.
People relocating to PA
Understand PA's unique tax rules — flat rate, 401(k) treatment, and local EIT — before moving.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pennsylvania's state income tax rate?
Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax rate of 3.07%. Unlike most states, PA does not use progressive brackets — every dollar of taxable income is taxed at the same rate regardless of income level.
Is 401(k) pre-tax for Pennsylvania state income tax?
No. Pennsylvania does NOT allow 401(k), 403(b), or traditional IRA contributions to reduce state taxable income. Your 401(k) still reduces your federal taxable income, but PA taxes your full gross wages. This is a common surprise for PA workers.
What is PA Local Earned Income Tax (EIT)?
Over 2,500 Pennsylvania municipalities levy a local earned income tax (EIT) ranging from 0.5% to 3.74%. Philadelphia has the highest at 3.74% for residents. Pittsburgh is 3.00%. Your rate depends on where you live and work.
How do I find my local EIT rate?
Visit the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) website or check with your local tax collector. Your employer should have your home and work municipality on file.
Does Pennsylvania have local income taxes beyond EIT?
Yes. Some municipalities also levy a Local Services Tax (LST), typically $52/year, deducted at $1/week. Philadelphia also has a separate wage tax for residents (3.74%) and non-residents (3.44%).
Does filing status affect PA state income tax?
No. Because PA uses a flat rate, your filing status (single, married, etc.) does not change your state tax rate. Filing status still affects your federal withholding.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides a close estimate based on 2025 tax rates and standard withholding formulas. Your actual paycheck may vary based on your employer's payroll system, year-to-date earnings, and local tax situation.
How is PA different from neighboring states?
PA's flat 3.07% rate is simple but unique. New Jersey uses progressive brackets (1.4%–10.75%). Delaware uses progressive brackets (2.2%–6.6%). New York also uses progressive brackets (4%–10.9%). PA's 401(k) rule and local EIT system make it distinct.