California vs 
Pennsylvania
Side-by-side wage comparison within United States.
California
Minimum Wage
$16.90 /hr
+ 133% vs United States national rate
Avg. gross salary
$7,200 /mo
Median household income
$91,905 /yr
Pennsylvania
Minimum Wage
$7.25 /hr
Avg. gross salary
$4,700 /mo
Median household income
$73,170 /yr
California sets its minimum wage 133% higher than Pennsylvania, at $16.90 per hour. Average gross salaries are 53% higher in California at $7,200/mo. California has a notably higher cost of living than Pennsylvania, which affects how far wages stretch. California's economy centers on technology and entertainment, while Pennsylvania is driven by healthcare and financial services.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | California | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage /hr | $16.90 | $7.25 |
| Minimum wage /mo | $2,929.28 /mo | $1,256.64 /mo |
| Minimum wage /yr | $35,152 /yr | $15,080 /yr |
| Avg. gross salary /mo | $7,200 /mo | $4,700 /mo |
| Median household income /yr | $91,905 /yr | $73,170 /yr |
| Median individual income /yr | $43,994 /yr | $38,354 /yr |
Percentage differences compare California to Pennsylvania.
See this comparison from Pennsylvania's perspective: Pennsylvania vs California
Alabama 
Arizona 
Arkansas 
Colorado 
Connecticut 
Florida 
Georgia 
Guam 
Hawaii 
Idaho 
Illinois 
Indiana 
Iowa 
Kansas 
Maryland 
Massachusetts 
Michigan 
Minnesota 
Mississippi 
Missouri 
Montana 
Nebraska 
Nevada 
New Jersey Frequently Asked Questions
How does the minimum wage in California compare to Pennsylvania?
California: $16.90/hr. Pennsylvania: $7.25/hr.
What is the average salary in California vs Pennsylvania?
California: $7,200/mo. Pennsylvania: $4,700/mo.