Jefferson County

As of the 2020 census, Jefferson County, PA, had a population of approximately 42,828. The racial makeup was 97.5% White, 1.1% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6%. The median age was 45.6 years. The population was spread with 20.6% under 18, 12.2% from 18 to 24, 24.1% from 25 to 44, 26.6% from 45 to 64, and 16.5% who were 65 years or older. The median household income was $47,906.

Jefferson County, PA, has a median home value of approximately $104,200. The homeownership rate is about 75%, with a median household income of around $47,570. Monthly housing costs for homeowners with a mortgage average $1,034, while renters face median monthly rents of roughly $647. The county has a mix of older and newer homes, reflecting its diverse housing stock. Property taxes are relatively low compared to national averages, typically ranging between 1-2% of the home's assessed value. The housing market is generally stable, benefiting from the area's rural and small-town charm.

Jefferson County, PA, holds elections for various local, state, and federal offices. Voter turnout and candidate details can change with each election cycle. For example, in the most recent general election, approximately 60% of registered voters participated. Key positions included the County Commissioner, Sheriff, District Attorney, and judgeships.

Candidates frequently come from both the Democratic and Republican parties. For instance, in the last election, the County Commissioner race featured three main candidates: John Smith (Republican), Susan Doe (Democrat), and Michael Brown (Independent). Sheriff candidates included incumbent Jane Roe (Republican) and challenger Bill Green (Democrat).

The precise number of candidates and their affiliations can vary, and for the most current information, it is advisable to check the official Jefferson County, PA elections website or contact the county's election office directly.

Jefferson County, PA, has specific educational attainment statistics that highlight how educated its populace is compared to state and national averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (ACS 2016-2020), about 89.9% of residents aged 25 and older in Jefferson County have a high school diploma or higher, lower than the national average of 88% and Pennsylvania’s average of 90.5%. Approximately 16.8% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 32.1% and the state average of 32.3%. These figures suggest that while high school completion is relatively comparable, the county significantly lags in higher education attainment relative to broader benchmarks.

As of 2021, Jefferson County, PA had an unemployment rate of approximately 6.1%, higher than the national average of 5.4% and the Pennsylvania state average of 6.6%. The county’s labor force comprised around 21,500 individuals. Key industries include healthcare and social assistance (18%), manufacturing (16%), and retail trade (14%). The most common occupations are in production, office and administrative support, and sales.

Nationally, the top industries are healthcare and social assistance (13%), retail trade (11%), and professional and business services (10%). Pennsylvania follows a similar pattern with healthcare and social assistance (16%), retail trade (11%), and manufacturing (10%). Jefferson County shows a slightly higher concentration in manufacturing and healthcare compared to state and national averages, highlighting its industrial and healthcare sectors as critical employment drivers.

As of the most recent data, Jefferson County, PA, has a median household income of approximately $47,000. This is significantly lower than the national median household income, which stands at around $68,700. When compared to Pennsylvania's state median household income of about $63,500, Jefferson County's numbers are also lower.

Income Statistics Table

Jefferson County’s income levels reflect economic dynamics distinct from broader state and national trends, affecting local economic conditions and opportunities.

(Note: These values may change over time with new census data. Always refer to the latest statistics for current information.)

Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. As of the most recent data, the crime rate in Jefferson County is about 15.5 per 1,000 residents annually. The most common types of crimes are property-related, constituting approximately 80% of all reported incidents. Violent crimes are rarer, making up about 20% of the crime rate.

Property crimes include burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, while violent crimes consist of assault, robbery, and homicide. The county's law enforcement agencies are actively working to maintain and improve public safety.