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Pennsylvania (PA) is one of the original 13 states founded in America and has a rich industrial history. However, the state’s industrial sector has undergone significant changes over time. Due to deindustrialization, Pennsylvania transitioned from coal, steel and railroads to automation and diversified its economy, focusing on the healthcare, technology and finance sectors. Today, the state’s education and healthcare industries are thriving, offering many employment opportunities.
PA’s population is nearly 13 million, so the demand for healthcare workers is strong. Whether you’re a travel nurse in PA or an allied health professional looking to relocate, some of the best hospitals in Pennsylvania offer competitive salaries and an excellent quality of life. Join us as we explore why Pennsylvania is a top choice for your next travel nurse assignment or staff nurse role.
Top Hospitals in Pennsylvania
Top-notch Pennsylvania hospitals provide excellence in healthcare services and patient care to their communities. These facilities offer top-tier medical treatment in a range of specialties via cutting-edge medical technology and highly skilled healthcare professionals (HCPs).
Below, we compare five award-winning Pennsylvania hospitals to consider for your next travel or staff position. All numerical rankings are from U.S. News & World Report, 2023-2024.
Hospitals of the University of Pennsylvania-Penn Presbyterian
Ranking as the No. 1 hospital in PA, this large Philadelphia facility has 1,003 beds. It’s a short-term acute care facility that utilizes EPIC systems. It ranked nationally in 11 specialties and was rated high performing in two adult specialties and 21 procedures and conditions. It holds the following awards and accolades:
- Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Docs
- Beacon Award of Excellence
- Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award
- Magnet Award for Nursing
UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside
Photo Credit: User: Piotrus, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA, this hospital has earned national recognition, achieving top rankings in nine adult specialties. It has garnered high-performance ratings in three adult specialties and excels in 15 procedures and conditions. UPMC Presbyterian continually proves its dedication to inclusion and diversity, as evidenced by its range of awards:
- 50 Out Front: Best Place to Work for Women and Diverse Managers
- Catalyst Award
- Advanced Health Equity Accreditation
- Healthcare Equity Index Leaders
- Inspiring Workplace Awards
- The Vibrant Index Initiative
- World’s Most Ethical Companies
This hospital shines as a world-class leader for equitable employment. It also shows its dedication to nursing excellence with the honor of being a Magnet facility.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania and is known as a world-class teaching hospital. CHOP holds the impressive position of No. 4 on the Best Children’s Honor Roll and holds national recognition in 10 distinct pediatric specialties. Established in 1855, it has evolved into a leading pediatric research and medical institution. CHOP is part of the CHOP Care Network, serving Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
This children’s hospital has 627 beds and consistently ranks as a top pediatric training program. It holds Magnet recognition for nursing excellence and has received numerous awards, including Forbes’ No. 1 Best Large Employer for 2022.
RELATED: Employer Spotlight: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Photo Credit: Penn State Health, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has earned national recognition for its exceptional healthcare services. It proudly holds national rankings in two adult specialties and one pediatric specialty while also achieving high-performance ratings in six additional adult specialties and excelling in 14 distinct procedures and conditions.
This distinguished institution functions as a general medical and surgical facility and a dynamic teaching hospital, transmitting essential knowledge to the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Temple University Hospital
Temple University Hospital (TUH) in Philadelphia boasts a rich medical history spanning over a century. TUH is known for medical innovations, including Philadelphia’s first heart transplant in 1984. This hospital has been recognized for quality and safety and excels in various specialties, from burn care to organ transplants.
TUH has garnered impressive awards and recognitions, including a Newsweek four-ribbon status for top maternity care. It ranks among the best regional hospitals in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia and performs highly in three adult specialties and 11 procedures and conditions. The hospital has earned Magnet recognition, highlighting its commitment to nursing excellence.
RELATED: Employer Spotlight: Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia
Average Nurse and Allied Health Pay Rates in Pennsylvania
As of September 18, 2023, Vivian Health had 3,019 jobs listed throughout Pennsylvania for nurses and 863 jobs listed for allied health professionals. The table below displays Pennsylvania’s average and maximum pay rates for nursing and allied health opportunities in Pennsylvania during this time period.
| Discipline | Average Pay Rate | Max Pay Rate |
| Staff Registered Nurse | $50.65/hour | $57/hour |
| Travel Registered Nurse | $2,179/week | $4,400/week |
| Staff Allied Health Professional | $26.41/hour | $76/hour |
| Travel Allied Health Professional | $2,423/week | $3,837/week |
In Pennsylvania, travel nurse salaries were on par with the rest of the country during September 2023. In contrast, travel allied health professionals made 2% more on average. As a travel nurse looking to make a higher wage, having a cardiac cath lab or interventional radiology specialty fetched a maximum weekly wage of $4,400 during this period, 102% higher than the national average for travel nurses.
Pennsylvania is also a great choice if you’re looking to relocate for a staff nurse position. Staff nurse wages were 14% higher than the national average in mid-September 2023. It’s important to keep in mind that wages do fluctuate throughout the state. During this period, staff nurses working at the Leigh Valley Health Network in Allentown, PA, had the highest wage potential.
The state might not be a top choice for an allied health staff position, however, as wages were 45% lower than the national average in mid-September 2023. Pharmacists in PA were the top-paid allied healthcare professionals with the potential to make up to $76/hr.
Cost of Living in Pennsylvania
The cost of living in Pennsylvania varies depending on your location. For example, urban areas are typically slightly more expensive than rural ones. With staff nurse salaries being significantly higher than the rest of the country, it makes for a good quality of life in PA.
According to Sperling’s Best Places, the cost of living in PA is 5.4% lower than the U.S. average. Income tax in Pennsylvania is a flat rate of 3.07% on wages with no local income taxes on wages, making Pennsylvania more tax-friendly compared to states with progressive income tax systems.
Top Locations to Live in Pennsylvania
Photo Credit: Jeffrey M. Vinocur, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In Pennsylvania, there’s a diverse spectrum of neighborhoods for different preferences and lifestyles, which can be especially beneficial to healthcare workers. Urban areas, in particular, showcase a myriad of neighborhoods, each with distinct character and offerings. Five sought-after neighborhoods across Pennsylvania that are ideal for HCPs include the following:
- Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia: Situated in the heart of the city, this neighborhood offers an upscale ambiance with tree-lined streets, high-end boutiques and a charming park. Penn Medicine Rittenhouse and Tuttleman Center offer varied work opportunities around their neighborhoods. Housing options mainly include historic brownstones and luxury apartments, making it an appealing choice for HCPs.
- Shadyside, Pittsburgh: Shadyside is a trendy neighborhood located east of downtown and close to UPMC Presbyterian, making it a good choice for healthcare workers. This vibrant area is known for its upscale shopping, dining options and picturesque tree-lined streets. Housing options in Shadyside include historic homes, apartments and condominiums. With its convenient location, healthcare workers can easily commute to nearby hospitals.
- Bethlehem Historic District, Bethlehem: This district is a picturesque area with colonial-era architecture, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quaint and historic atmosphere. Housing options include historic homes and apartments. The Bethlehem Historic District is conveniently close to St. Luke’s University Health Network Hospital, so it’s a great choice for HCPs looking for historic charm near their workplaces.
- Lancaster City, Lancaster: Lancaster City, nestled in Lancaster County, is a bustling urban hub. With a vibrant arts scene, an array of dining choices and a tight-knit community spirit, it offers a dynamic living experience for staff and travel HCPs. Lancaster City is near Lancaster General Hospital, making it a convenient locale for healthcare workers who desire city life and proximity to their workplace.
- Allentown West End, Allentown: The West End of Allentown, ideally situated near the Lehigh Valley Hospital, is an excellent choice for nurses seeking a family-friendly neighborhood. Known for its tree-lined streets and nearby parks, it provides a serene environment for healthcare professionals. The neighborhood offers diverse housing options, from single-family homes to apartments, ensuring that nurses can find comfortable accommodations near their workplaces. Lehigh Valley Hospital’s renowned medical facilities and proximity make the West End an attractive and practical choice for healthcare workers balancing work and family life.
Popular Pennsylvania Attractions
Pennsylvania boasts many popular attractions catering to a wide range of interests and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a sweet escape, historical sites or some phenomenal art, you’ll find it all in the Keystone State.
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Considered the Chocolate Capital of the U.S. and often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is famous for its chocolate heritage. This locale is a great family attraction and a must-see for those with a sweet tooth. A visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World gives you the opportunity to learn about the art of chocolate-making, partake in chocolate-themed attractions and even create your own candy bars. For those seeking excitement, explore Hersheypark’s exhilarating rides, water park and entertainment options.
Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia
Photo Credit: National Park Service, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This park is a treasure trove of American history. It’s home to iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. The Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom, is also on display here. Visitors can immerse themselves in the birthplace of the United States, taking guided tours and exploring numerous exhibits.
Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg
History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Gettysburg, where one of the most significant battles of the Civil War occurred. The park features battlefield sites, monuments and a visitor center with informative exhibits. Guests can embark on guided tours to better understand the conflict and its impact on American history.
The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh
Photo Credit: Michał Derela, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Art aficionados will appreciate this cultural institution dedicated to the works of iconic artist Andy Warhol. The museum showcases a vast collection of Warhol’s paintings, prints, photographs and more. Visitors can explore his life and artistic evolution through various exhibits and installations, gaining insight into pop culture and modern art.
Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia
Photo Credit: Meihe Chen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Known for its famous “Rocky Steps,” this museum houses an extensive and diverse collection of art spanning centuries and cultures. Visitors can view masterpieces by artists like Vincent van Gogh and explore rotating exhibitions. The museum’s impressive architecture and views of the city from its famous front steps make it a popular spot for art lovers and movie buffs alike.
Pennsylvania’s Foodie Scene
Pennsylvania’s food scene is a delightful fusion of regional classics and international flavors. Iconic dishes like the Philadelphia cheesesteak have earned worldwide recognition. At the same time, Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine showcases the influence of German settlers with specialties like scrapple, a dish made of scraps of pork mixed with cornmeal and spices, and shoofly pie, with some sweet ingredients, including molasses and brown sugar.
The state’s vibrant cities, like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, embrace diverse culinary traditions, offering a smorgasbord of international cuisines. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian pasta, spicy Mexican fare or exotic Ethiopian dishes, Pennsylvania’s foodie scene caters to all tastes.
Exploring local farmers’ markets and food festivals is a great way to experience the culinary richness of Pennsylvania. You can indulge in fresh, locally-grown produce and artisanal delights that showcase the state’s unique flavors. The state has several renowned farmers’ markets and food festivals, such as Lancaster Central Market in Lancaster, Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, and the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg. Make sure to add these to your must-visit list when in PA.
Getting Around Pennsylvania
There are a variety of transportation options for getting around the state. Major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have easy-to-use public transportation systems, including buses, subways and light rail. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority in Philadelphia and the Port Authority in Pittsburgh are the primary providers of these services.
Alternative commuting methods are encouraged through park-and-ride options, making it convenient for healthcare workers to leave their cars and carpool or use public transit. Many cities also have bike-friendly infrastructure for nurses who prefer cycling, including bike lanes and rental programs. If you plan to come to PA for a travel nurse or travel allied health contract, you’ll likely utilize one of the state’s major airports. Philadelphia International Airport and Pittsburgh International Airport provide convenient connections to residents, healthcare workers and tourists.
With a steadily increasing population, the healthcare market in PA is full of promise, ample work and diverse facilities to suit your needs. Let us help connect you with the perfect healthcare opportunity in Pennsylvania. Start your job search with the Vivian Health job board and find the right facility for a fulfilling healthcare career today.
