countyscore
57.8
County Score
Schools 91.8Health 82Safety 78.1

County Report Card

About Centre County, Pennsylvania

Centre County Boasts Superior Scores

With a composite score of 57.8, Centre County ranks significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects the stabilizing presence of major institutions and a high quality of life.

One of Pennsylvania's Best

Centre County’s score of 57.8 easily beats the state average of 51.8. Its performance is buoyed by exceptional social services and a healthy local economy.

Top-Tier Education and Safety

The county is an educational powerhouse with a School Score of 91.8, the highest among its regional neighbors. It also provides a very safe environment, earning a Safety Score of 78.1 and a Health Score of 82.0.

Housing Supply and Cost Pressure

Affordability is the main hurdle, reflected in a Cost Score of 15.8 and median rents reaching $1,181. Housing demand often outpaces supply, pushing the median home value to $308,100.

Ideal for Academic Professionals

Centre County is a perfect fit for those who value education, health, and a low tax rate above all else. While housing costs are higher than the state average, the community benefits from elite public infrastructure and safety.

Score breakdown

Tax33.4Cost15.8Safety78.1Health82Schools91.8Income73.3Risk32Water43.3Weather56.1
🏛33.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡78.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤82
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓91.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡32
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧43.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨41.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Clinton County
Pennsylvania
56.1
Clearfield County
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57.9
Mifflin County
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46.2
Huntingdon County
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Blair County
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Cameron County
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Juniata County
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Union County
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Deep Dives

Centre County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Centre County

via TaxByCounty

Centre County taxes close to the national norm

Centre County's effective tax rate of 1.065% sits just slightly below the national median of 1.09%, landing in roughly the 48th percentile. The median property tax of $3,282 exceeds the national median of $2,690, though Centre homes are also worth more than average—$308,100 versus $281,900 nationally.

Well below Pennsylvania's average rate

Centre County ranks in the lower quarter of Pennsylvania counties by effective tax rate, meaningfully below the state average of 1.317%. Its median tax of $3,282 exceeds the state median of $2,657, but the county's moderate rate makes it relatively tax-friendly for a prosperous region.

Centre lighter than Cambria and Carbon

Centre's 1.065% rate is among the lowest in central Pennsylvania, beating Cambria (1.283%), Carbon (1.504%), and Cameron (1.667%). For a college-town county with higher property values, Centre offers competitive tax relief compared to nearby regions.

Median bill approximately $3,282 yearly

On Centre County's median home value of $308,100, the 1.065% effective rate yields an estimated annual property tax of $3,282. This represents a reasonable burden for a county with above-average property values and a thriving State College economy.

Even modest assessment errors cost money

Though Centre County offers a favorable tax rate, overassessments still occur and can cost hundreds annually on higher-value properties. A free appeal is worth filing if you suspect your assessment doesn't match recent market comparables.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Centre County

via CostByCounty

Centre struggles with college town premium

Centre County renters spend 19.5% of income on housing—the highest ratio in Pennsylvania and well above the 16.5% national benchmark. The median income of $72,748 nearly matches the national average, but housing costs reflect the State College college-town premium that inflates local rents.

Pennsylvania's most strained housing market

Centre's 19.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks worst among Pennsylvania counties, driven by a median rent of $1,181 that outpaces the state average of $960 by 23%. The county's university anchor (Penn State) creates concentrated demand that lifts prices beyond income growth.

College premium over regional peers

Centre's $1,181 median rent exceeds all rural neighboring counties substantially—Carbon ($975), Cambria ($733), Clarion ($785)—while charging less than affluent suburban Bucks ($1,537) and Chester ($1,691). The pricing reflects Centre's unique college-town economics.

State College's expensive equation

Renters dedicate $1,181 monthly (19.5%) and homeowners $1,265 (20.9%) to housing against the $72,748 income, making Centre the state's most cost-burdened county. This leaves Centre households with less discretionary income than peers despite solid median earnings.

Centre County demands above-market income

Move to Centre if your salary or household income substantially exceeds the $72,748 median or if you value Penn State's cultural amenities enough to absorb the 19.5% housing cost. Job seekers should negotiate aggressively—local employers know they must pay premiums to offset the county's highest affordability burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Centre County

via IncomeByCounty

Centre slightly above national middle

Centre County's median household income of $72,748 falls nearly even with the national median of $74,755, placing the county right at middle-income status nationwide. Home to Penn State University, the county's diverse economy supports the national-average income despite pockets of student-based housing poverty.

Close to Pennsylvania's average

Centre County ranks near the midpoint of Pennsylvania's 67 counties with a median household income of $72,748—a marginal $3,134 above the state average of $69,614. The presence of Penn State and a robust college-town services sector sustain slightly above-average household earnings.

University drives income above peers

Centre County's $72,748 median income edges above Carbon County ($67,877) and significantly outpaces Cambria ($56,292), reflecting Penn State's outsized economic influence on regional wages. The university effect lifts professional and administrative employment above what rural Appalachian peers experience.

High housing burden despite moderate income

Centre County's 19.5% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among these eight counties, signaling housing cost pressure despite a median home value of $308,100. The university town's popularity has driven home values and rents upward faster than median household incomes, squeezing housing affordability.

Navigate student debt and build savings

Centre County's $72,748 median income supports modest wealth-building, though elevated housing costs (19.5% burden) limit savings capacity compared to other counties. Prioritize eliminating high-interest debt, explore employer retirement benefits, and establish automated savings transfers to overcome the housing affordability challenge.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Centre County

via CrimeByCounty

Centre County Ranks as Safety Leader

Centre County boasts a high safety score of 99.2, making it one of the most secure regions in the country. The total crime rate of 519.3 per 100,000 is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Top-Tier Safety in Pennsylvania

Centre County significantly outperforms the state safety average score of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 519.3 is nearly half the statewide average of 932.4 per 100,000 residents.

Outpacing Its Regional Neighbors

Centre County is safer than neighboring Cameron and Clarion counties, which report rates of 705.4 and 792.2 respectively. It maintains a profile similar to the highly safe Butler County.

Low Risk of Violent and Property Crime

The violent crime rate is just 75.0 per 100,000, while property crime is 444.3. These rates are well below national levels, indicating a very low risk for residents in both categories.

Smart Security for Centre County

Local police across 12 agencies emphasize that even in safe areas, basic precautions matter. Residents are encouraged to lock their doors and report suspicious activity to maintain this high level of community safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Centre County

via HealthByCounty

Centre leads Pennsylvania in longevity

Centre County residents live 81.3 years on average—nearly 5 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With only 17.0% reporting poor or fair health, the county shows strong underlying health despite some chronic disease burden.

State's longest life expectancy

Centre County's 81.3-year life expectancy ranks it at the very top of Pennsylvania, exceeding the state average of 76.4 years by 4.9 years. The county is a model for health and longevity across the commonwealth.

Regional longevity leader

Centre County's 81.3-year life expectancy slightly edges Chester County (81.0 years) for regional leadership. Both counties tower over Cambria, Carbon, and Clarion counties, each at roughly 74.5-74.9 years—a stark 6+ year gap.

Excellent provider access, solid coverage

Centre County's 6.2% uninsured rate exceeds the state average by just 0.8 percentage points—room for improvement but manageable. With 83 primary care providers and 256 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, healthcare access is strong and supports prevention-focused care.

Maintain momentum on coverage

Centre County's 6.2% uninsured rate is lower than most state peers, but every uninsured resident risks a health crisis. Check www.healthcare.gov annually and explore employer plans and public options to sustain this county's exemplary health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Centre County

via SchoolsByCounty

An Education-Driven Central Hub

Centre County operates 33 public schools across nine school districts, supporting a total of 13,832 students. The network is rich in primary education options, featuring 23 elementary schools alongside four middle and six high schools. This infrastructure serves a diverse geographic area from the urban State College core to outlying rural regions.

Top-Tier Graduation and State-Leading Scores

The county achieves a stellar 95.4% graduation rate, among the highest in the state and well above the 87% national average. Academic investment is strong at $11,573 per pupil, which exceeds the state average of $10,336. These factors combine for a school score of 66.2, significantly higher than the state median.

State College Area SD Sets the Pace

State College Area School District dominates the local landscape, managing 11 schools and 6,781 students. Bellefonte Area and Bald Eagle Area are also major contributors, serving over 4,000 students combined. Unlike many neighbors, Centre County has a notable charter school presence, with three schools representing 9.1% of the total.

Diverse Locales from City to Rural

Students in Centre County attend schools in a wide range of settings, including 15 rural, nine suburban, five city, and four town campuses. While the average school size is 419, State College Area High School is a massive outlier with 2,410 students. This variety allows families to choose between intimate rural schools and large, resource-rich urban campuses.

Invest in a High-Performing District

With some of the best academic metrics in Pennsylvania, Centre County is a premier destination for families. The presence of Penn State University influences the high local standards for K-12 education. Look for homes in the State College or Bellefonte areas to capitalize on these exceptional educational resources.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Centre County

via RiskByCounty

Centre County's risk slightly exceeds state average

Centre County's composite risk score of 67.97 ranks it as relatively low, nearly matching Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45. This positions the county at the threshold between lower and moderate risk zones.

Mid-range risk for Pennsylvania

Centre County ranks in the middle band of Pennsylvania's 67 counties for overall natural disaster risk. It sits among the more average counties statewide in terms of hazard exposure.

Similar risk to surrounding counties

Centre County's 67.97 score closely mirrors Cambria (76.43) and Carbon (59.41) in the surrounding region. Butler County (79.26) to the northwest shows somewhat higher exposure.

Flooding and hurricanes are top threats

Centre County's flood risk of 81.23 and hurricane risk of 77.47 are its two most significant hazard exposures. Tornado risk (42.84) and earthquake risk (58.17) remain moderate but secondary to water-related threats.

Secure flood and wind protection

Centre County's flood risk score of 81.23 makes standalone flood insurance a strong recommendation for all property owners. Ensure your homeowners policy covers wind damage and develop a family emergency communication plan.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Centre County

via WeatherByCounty

Crisp Temperatures in Central Pennsylvania

Centre County averages 47.8°F annually, placing it well below the national median. Its position in the Ridge-and-Valley province dictates its cool climate.

Trailing the Statewide Temperature Average

The county's 47.8°F average is over two degrees cooler than the Pennsylvania state average of 49.9°F. This results in longer winters and shorter growing seasons.

Drier Than Many State Neighbors

While it shares a 47.8°F average with Cambria, Centre County is drier with 42.6 inches of precipitation. This is nearly three inches below the state average of 45.3 inches.

Abundant Snow and Rare Heat

Winter brings 44.8 inches of snowfall and a 24.5°F January average. Summer remains mild, as residents only face 7 days of extreme heat over 90°F.

Winterize for Significant Snow Totals

Reliable heating and snow removal are vital for the 44.8 inches of annual snow. The mild July average of 69.8°F means homes stay comfortable without excessive cooling.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Centre County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Pennsylvania acidity in the center

Centre County soil has a pH of 5.13, which is very close to the state average of 5.22. This is considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5, a common trait in the state's ridge and valley region. While taxonomic orders aren't specified, the chemistry suggests a typical Appalachian soil profile.

A balanced silty composition

The mineral makeup includes 29.7% sand, 39.5% silt, and 15.2% clay. This balanced distribution provides good structure and moderate nutrient retention. The silt and clay levels are high enough to maintain moisture without the extreme heaviness found in high-clay regions.

Strong organic matter for healthy crops

Organic matter stands at 12.96%, which is above the state average of 12.14% and much higher than the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity is 0.134 inches per inch, indicating the soil holds slightly less water than the state average of 0.151. This makes the soil naturally fertile but potentially prone to drying in late summer.

Observe your local water flow

There is no current data for the dominant drainage class or hydrologic group in Centre County. Given the limestone valleys and sandstone ridges, drainage can vary wildly within a few miles. Homeowners should check for limestone sinkholes or clay lenses that might affect how water leaves their property.

A versatile climate in Zone 6b

Centre County's location in Hardiness Zone 6b supports a wide range of vegetables and ornamentals. The high organic matter provides a great head start for heavy feeders like corn and squash. Get outside and start planting in the heart of the Commonwealth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Centre County

via LawnByCounty

Typical Pennsylvania Conditions in Centre County

Centre County's lawn difficulty score of 58.0 sits right in line with the state average of 59.2. Located in hardiness zone 6b, the area provides a standard but manageable challenge for local homeowners. It is slightly easier to maintain a lawn here than in the average American county.

Standard Rainfall for Steady Growth

With 42.6 inches of annual precipitation, lawns receive the right amount of water for the 2444 growing degree days recorded locally. The area only sees 7 extreme heat days annually, which prevents the severe wilting common in southern PA. This balance supports a consistent mowing schedule from May through September.

Nutrient Lockout Possible Due to Low pH

A soil pH of 5.13 indicates that Centre County yards are more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The soil composition is relatively balanced with 29.7% sand and 15.2% clay, but the acidity must be addressed to ensure fertilizers work effectively. Applying pelletized lime each spring can help bring these numbers into the healthy zone.

Abnormally Dry Conditions are the New Norm

The county spent 23 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. While severe drought hasn't taken hold yet, the lack of current moisture can stall growth. Use a rain gauge to ensure your lawn gets at least one inch of water per week from rain or sprinklers.

Watch the Frost for Spring Planting

The last spring frost on May 13th is relatively late, so wait for the ground to warm before heavy seeding. Kentucky bluegrass and fescue blends are the most reliable choices for the 6b climate here. Planting in the fall by early September often yields the best results before the October 6th frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Centre County's county score?
Centre County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 57.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Centre County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Centre County ranks #13 among all counties in Pennsylvania on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Centre County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Centre County is $3,282, with an effective tax rate of 1.07%. This earns Centre County a tax score of 33.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Centre County?
The median household income in Centre County, Pennsylvania is $72,748 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Centre County earns an income score of 73.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Centre County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Centre County scores 57.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Centre County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Centre County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.