The Graphic Designer's Career Guide to Scranton, Pennsylvania

Scranton isn't the first city that pops into a designer's mind, but that's precisely why you should consider it. As a local who's watched this city's creative scene evolve from its industrial roots into a hub for digital agencies and in-house marketing teams, I can tell you there's real opportunity here—if you know where to look. This guide cuts through the fluff and gives you the data-driven facts about building a design career in the Electric City.

The Salary Picture: Where Scranton Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter most. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the median salary for a Graphic Designer in the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre metro area is $60,051/year. That breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.87. For context, the national average sits at $61,340/year, meaning Scranton pays just slightly below the national norm—which is actually a strong sign when you factor in the cost of living.

What's more telling is the volume of opportunity. There are currently 151 jobs advertised for Graphic Designers in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is 3%, which is modest but stable. This isn't a boomtown for creatives, but it's a reliable market with consistent demand.

Here’s how salaries break down by experience level:

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range	Hourly Rate	What to Expect
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 - $52,000	$19.23 - $25.00	Junior designer roles, production work, print shops
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$52,000 - $68,000	$25.00 - $32.69	Full branding projects, digital campaigns, team collaboration
Senior-Level (8-12 years)	$68,000 - $85,000	$32.69 - $40.87	Art direction, client management, strategy
Expert/Leadership (12+ years)	$85,000 - $100,000+	$40.87 - $48.08+	Creative director, agency owner, in-house brand lead

Insider Tip: The jump from mid-level to senior is where you'll see the biggest salary increase in Scranton. Companies here value seasoned designers who can handle both digital and print—hybrid skills are a major asset.

Compared to other Pennsylvania cities, Scranton sits in a sweet spot. Pittsburgh and Philadelphia offer higher salaries (median $65,000-$70,000), but rents are 40-60% higher. Harrisburg is similar to Scranton but with fewer creative employers. For a balanced cost-to-salary ratio, Scranton is tough to beat.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So you’re making the median $60,051. What’s actually left after the essentials? Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single graphic designer living in Scranton.

Assuming a 7.65% federal tax rate (FICA) and Pennsylvania’s flat 3.07% income tax, plus local city tax (typically 1-2% depending on municipality), your take-home pay is roughly $4,000/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Graphic Designer, $60,051 Salary)

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$854/month	City average; see neighborhood breakdown below
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$200/month	Varies by season; older buildings can cost more
Groceries & Household	$400/month	Shop at Wegmans or Weis for better prices
Transportation	$250/month	Car insurance is lower here, but gas adds up if commuting
Health Insurance	$250/month	Employer-sponsored plans average $150-300/month
Retirement/401(k)	$250/month	Aim for 5% to get employer match
Entertainment & Misc.	$400/month	Eating out, hobbies, subscriptions
Total	$2,604/month	Leaves ~$1,400 for savings, debt, or emergencies

Can you afford to buy a home? The median home price in Scranton is around $180,000. With a $60,051 salary, you’re at the edge of affordability. Lenders typically want your housing payment (mortgage, taxes, insurance) under 28% of your gross monthly income—that’s about $1,400/month. A 20% down payment on a $180,000 home is $36,000, which is a stretch on this salary unless you have savings or a partner. It’s possible, but you’d need to budget aggressively. Many local designers rent in their 20s and buy in their 30s, often after a salary jump to senior level.

Insider Tip: Look into first-time homebuyer programs through the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA). They offer down payment assistance and lower interest rates for qualifying buyers in Lackawanna County.

Where the Jobs Are: Scranton's Major Employers

Scranton’s design job market is anchored by healthcare, education, and local manufacturing. Here are the key players hiring graphic designers:

1. Geisinger Health System – Scranton’s largest employer. They have an in-house marketing team that handles print, digital, and branding for hospitals like Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley. They hire for mid-level and senior designers, often looking for experience in healthcare compliance (HIPAA-friendly design).

2. The University of Scranton – A steady source of design work, both in the university’s marketing department and through its digital media programs. They often hire junior designers for web and print collaterals. Bonus: faculty positions sometimes open up for those with a Master’s degree.

3. Lackawanna College – Similar to the University, but smaller. They’re growing their online programs and need designers for digital courses and promotional materials.

4. The Times-Tribune – The region’s primary newspaper and digital media company. They hire designers for layout, infographics, and digital ad design. The pace is fast, and the pay is mid-level, but it’s great experience for building a portfolio.

5. Lackawanna County Government – They have an internal communications team that designs everything from public health campaigns to voter guides. Stable, union-protected jobs, but competitive to get into.

6. Local Agencies (e.g., Meridian, The Godfrey Group) – Scranton has a handful of mid-sized marketing agencies that serve regional clients. These are often the best places to start for variety and growth. Hiring trends: agencies are leaning into digital/social media work, so designers with motion graphics or UI/UX skills are in demand.

Hiring Trends: Since 2022, there’s been a slight uptick in remote/hybrid roles for Scranton-based designers. Companies like Geisinger and the University are open to hybrid arrangements, which expands your options if you’re willing to work from home a few days a week.

Getting Licensed in PA

Here’s the straight talk: Pennsylvania does not require a state license to practice graphic design. You don’t need to take an exam or pay licensing fees to work as a designer in Scranton or anywhere in PA.

However, there are costs and timelines to consider for professional development:

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field is the standard. In-state tuition at the University of Scranton is about $20,000 per year (total ~$80k for 4 years). Community college options like Lackawanna College offer an Associate’s degree for under $15,000 total.
• Certifications: While not required, certifications can boost your resume. The Adobe Certified Professional exam costs about $150 per application. A UX Design certificate from a platform like Coursera (Google/Coursera) is $49/month for a 6-month program.
• Timeline: If you’re starting from scratch (no degree), a 2-year Associate’s degree gets you entry-level ready. A 4-year Bachelor’s opens more doors. You can get started with freelance work while studying, but serious full-time jobs typically want a degree.

Insider Tip: Many local designers are self-taught or have certificates from online programs. The key is a strong portfolio. If you have 3+ years of solid freelance work, you can often bypass the degree requirement for mid-level roles.

Best Neighborhoods for Graphic Designers

Your commute and quality of life matter. Scranton is compact—most neighborhoods are within a 15-minute drive of downtown, but each has its own vibe.

1. Downtown Scranton – The creative heartbeat. You’ll be close to agencies, coffee shops (like Electric City Roasting), and networking events. Walkable, but parking is a hassle. Rent for a 1BR: $900-$1,100/month. Ideal for young professionals who want to be in the mix.

2. Green Ridge – Quiet, residential, and family-friendly. It’s where many designers and creatives set up home offices. Easy 10-minute commute to downtown. 1BR rent: $750-$900/month. Great for those who want space and peace.

3. South Scranton – More affordable, with lots of older, spacious apartments. Closer to Geisinger’s main campus (a major employer). 1BR rent: $700-$850/month. A practical choice for budget-conscious designers.

4. Clarks Summit – Technically just outside Scranton (15-minute drive), but it’s where many professionals live. Cleaner, more suburban feel, with great schools. 1BR rent: $800-$1,000/month. Best for designers with families or those wanting a quieter lifestyle.

5. West Side – Grittier but up-and-coming. Close to the University of Scranton and some creative studios. 1BR rent: $650-$800/month. A good option if you’re early in your career and want to save money.

Insider Tip: If you’re renting, avoid buildings built before 1970 unless you’ve seen the unit in person—the heating systems in older Scranton homes can be inefficient and expensive in winter.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Scranton, career growth isn’t about rapid promotions—it’s about strategic skill-building. Here’s how to maximize your trajectory:

Specialty Premiums:

• UI/UX Design: Can add $10,000-$15,000 to your salary. Local agencies and tech-enabled companies (like Geisinger’s digital health team) are hiring for these roles.
• Motion Graphics: In high demand for social media and digital ads. Premium of $5,000-$8,000.
• Print Production: Scranton still has a strong print industry (think manufacturing, healthcare forms). Expertise here can lead to stable, high-paying roles.

Advancement Paths:

1. Junior → Mid-Level (2-4 years): Focus on building a diverse portfolio. Get involved in local design groups like the NEPA Chapter of AIGA (if active) or Scranton’s Creative Mornings events.
2. Mid-Level → Senior (5-8 years): Take on project management. Learn to present to clients. This is where you’ll hit the median salary of $60,051.
3. Senior → Expert (8+ years): Specialize or lead. Many senior designers in Scranton move into art direction, start their own micro-agency, or transition into UX/product design for remote companies (even if living locally).

10-Year Outlook: The 3% job growth is slow but steady. The real opportunity is in hybrid roles—designers who can do print, digital, and basic web development. Scranton’s economy is stable, but not explosive. Your best bet for a significant income boost is to work remotely for a Philadelphia or NYC-based company while living in Scranton, leveraging the lower cost of living.

Insider Tip: Attend the annual Scranton Fringe Festival or First Friday art walks. These are where you’ll meet the local creative directors and business owners who hire.

The Verdict: Is Scranton Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living: 93.0 index vs. US avg 100. Rent is $854/month on average.	Limited high-end creative scene: Few Fortune 500 companies or elite design agencies.
Stable job market: 151 jobs available, with major employers like Geisinger and the University.	Slower salary growth: Median $60,051 is below national average; raises are incremental.
Short commutes: Most neighborhoods are within 15 minutes of downtown.	Harsh winters: Snow and cold can affect your mood and commute (but also means cozy work-from-home days).
Strong community: Easy to network and collaborate with other creatives.	Fewer networking events: Compared to bigger cities, but what exists is tight-knit.
Access to nature: Poconos and Lackawanna State Park are 20-30 minutes away.	Limited public transit: You’ll need a car to get around easily.

Final Recommendation: Scranton is an ideal choice if you value work-life balance, affordability, and a supportive community over the hustle of a major metro. It’s perfect for mid-career designers looking to buy a home or raise a family without sacrificing their career. If you’re early-career and hungry for intense creative competition, you might find Scranton too quiet—consider it a stepping stone after you’ve built your skills. For the right person, it’s a hidden gem where a $60,051 salary goes a long way.

FAQs

1. Can I work as a freelance graphic designer in Scranton without a degree?
Absolutely. The market cares more about your portfolio than your diploma. Many local designers are self-taught or have certifications. Start by offering services to local small businesses—coffee shops, restaurants, nonprofits—to build your client list.

2. How competitive is the job market for graphic designers here?
With 151 jobs listed and a 3% growth rate, it’s moderately competitive. Entry-level roles get 50-100 applicants, but mid-to-senior roles are more selective. Having a niche (like healthcare design or UX) will set you apart.

3. Is it possible to live on a starting salary of $45,000?
Yes, but you’ll need to budget carefully. With rent at $854 and a frugal lifestyle, you can manage. Consider a roommate for a nicer apartment, and take advantage of Scranton’s low-cost entertainment (hiking, free festivals).

4. What’s the best way to network with other designers in Scranton?
Join the Scranton Creative Mornings chapter (if active), attend First Friday events, and follow local agencies on LinkedIn. Also, check out the University of Scranton’s design department—they often host public talks and exhibitions.

5. Can I commute from Scranton to Philadelphia or NYC for higher pay?
It’s not practical—Philadelphia is 2 hours away, NYC is 3+. However, remote work is a game-changer. Many Scranton designers work for East Coast companies remotely, earning Philadelphia salaries while paying Scranton rent. This is a smart strategy if you have 3+ years of experience.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, Zillow Rent Data (Scranton Metro), U.S. Census Bureau (Metro Population: 75,803), Cost of Living Index (Council for Community and Economic Research).