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Cumberland County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#32 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
53
County Score
Income & Jobs 89Health 86.3Schools 78.3

County Report Card

About Cumberland County, Pennsylvania

Competitive National Profile

Cumberland County scores 53.0 on the composite index, outperforming the national median of 50.0. It offers a robust economic environment that stands out on the national stage.

Leading the Commonwealth

With a 53.0 composite score, the county beats the Pennsylvania state average of 51.8. It is a key economic driver within the state, often outperforming neighboring rural areas.

High Incomes and Elite Health

Economic prosperity is evident in the high Income Score of 89.0 and a median household income of $85,634. Residents also enjoy superior healthcare access, reflected in a Health Score of 86.3.

Housing Costs and Environmental Risk

Growth brings challenges, including a low Cost Score of 15.0 and a Risk Score of 13.8. High demand has pushed median gross rents to $1,184, which may stretch some budgets.

A Hub for High-Earning Families

Cumberland is perfect for professionals seeking high wages and top-flight medical care. It is an affluent choice for those who prioritize economic opportunity over low housing costs.

Score breakdown

Tax25Cost15Safety64.6Health86.3Schools78.3Income89Risk13.8Water66Weather55.6
🏛25
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼89
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡64.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓78.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡13.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧66
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.2
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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Dauphin County
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Deep Dives

Cumberland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cumberland County

via TaxByCounty

Cumberland taxes remain below national median

Cumberland County's 1.214% effective tax rate sits below Pennsylvania's state average of 1.317% and the national median of 1.58%, despite the county's median home value of $261,900 approaching the national median. The median property tax of $3,180 exceeds the national median of $2,690, reflecting higher home values.

Cumberland ranks mid-range among counties

At $3,180 in median annual property taxes, Cumberland County ranks in Pennsylvania's middle tier, paying 20% more than the state average of $2,657. The 1.214% rate reflects a moderate tax burden relative to other counties statewide.

Cumberland pays more than adjacent counties

Cumberland County's $3,180 median tax significantly exceeds nearby Clearfield ($1,488), Clinton ($2,047), and Columbia ($2,266), driven partly by higher home values of $261,900. However, its 1.214% rate remains competitive compared to Dauphin's 1.427% and Delaware's 1.984%.

Median homeowner pays $3,180 annually

On a median home value of $261,900, Cumberland County homeowners pay approximately $3,180 in annual property taxes at the county's 1.214% effective rate. With a mortgage, taxes reach $3,257; without one, they total $3,027.

Challenge inflated assessments to save

Cumberland County homeowners with higher-value properties can recoup significant savings by appealing overassessments, potentially recovering $400-600 annually. Verify your assessed value against recent comparable sales, and file an appeal if your property is valued above market.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cumberland County

via CostByCounty

Cumberland's affordability anchored by strong income

Cumberland County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% matches the national strain point, but higher household income of $85,634—nearly $11,000 above the national median—allows residents to absorb higher housing costs. At $1,184 monthly rent, the county ranks among Pennsylvania's pricier markets, yet income growth maintains reasonable affordability.

Highest-income county with premium housing

Cumberland County boasts Pennsylvania's strongest median household income at $85,634, enabling residents to afford above-average housing costs; rents of $1,184 and median home values of $261,900 reflect a more affluent market. The county's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio stays near the state average despite these premium price points.

Pricier than rural regions, justified by income

Cumberland's $1,184 monthly rent and $261,900 median home value substantially exceed rural peers like Clearfield ($788 rent, $125,000 homes) or Elk ($720 rent, $128,600 homes). However, Cumberland's significantly higher median income of $85,634 versus Clearfield's $60,181 explains and supports these premium costs.

Strong income absorbs above-average housing

Renters dedicate roughly 17% of the $85,634 median household income to $1,184 monthly rent, while homeowners spend about 18% on mortgages averaging $1,302 on homes valued at $261,900. Both ratios remain manageable due to the county's strong income base.

Cumberland suits higher-income relocators

Cumberland offers Pennsylvania's strongest income foundation, making premium housing costs more accessible; median home prices near $262,000 and rents at $1,184 remain proportional to household earnings. Consider it if you're earning well above state average and value the amenities and job market that higher prices reflect.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cumberland County

via IncomeByCounty

Cumberland outpaces U.S. income median

Cumberland County's median household income of $85,634 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $10,879, a 14.6% premium. This places Cumberland among the wealthier counties nationally and well above most Pennsylvania peers. The strong performance reflects a diversified economy with proximity to state capital Harrisburg.

Second-wealthiest county in sample

Cumberland's $85,634 median household income ranks second only to Delaware County ($88,576) in this eight-county comparison and exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614 by $16,020. Per capita income of $45,365 also ranks among the highest statewide. Cumberland's economic strength reflects both individual prosperity and regional development.

Clear leader in regional earnings

Cumberland's $85,634 median household income vastly exceeds all other peers in this sample, surpassing Dauphin ($74,159) by over $11,000 and trailing only Delaware County. This commanding lead reflects Cumberland's location, economic diversity, and proximity to government and professional services sectors. The gap widens significantly in the western counties.

Incomes support rising home values

Cumberland's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio is balanced, but the median home value of $261,900 consumes a significant portion of household wealth. Residents earning $85,634 spend roughly $1,180 monthly on rent, while home purchases require substantial down payments. The affordability challenge intensifies because property values continue appreciating faster than wages.

Diversify wealth beyond home equity

Cumberland's above-average incomes provide opportunity to build wealth in stocks, bonds, and alternative investments beyond real estate. Max out 401(k) and IRA contributions, then explore taxable investment accounts for additional growth. With consistent contributions and disciplined rebalancing, high-income earners can accumulate meaningful wealth within 10–15 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cumberland County

via CrimeByCounty

High safety marks for Cumberland County

Cumberland County achieves a safety score of 98.7, with a total crime rate of 827.5 per 100,000. This is remarkably lower than the national average of 2,385.5 per 100,000 residents. A total of 28 reporting agencies contribute to this robust safety data.

A leader in Pennsylvania public safety

Cumberland County outperforms the Pennsylvania average safety score of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 827.5 is also significantly better than the state average of 932.4. These numbers highlight the county as a particularly safe place to live within the Commonwealth.

Cumberland vs. neighboring Dauphin County

Cumberland County is notably safer than its neighbor, Dauphin County, which has a crime rate of 952.8. While Dauphin matches the state average, Cumberland exceeds it by a wide margin. This makes Cumberland a preferred destination for those seeking lower crime rates in the capital region.

Property crime vs. violent crime levels

The violent crime rate in Cumberland is just 99.9 per 100,000, which is nearly four times safer than the national average. Property crime accounts for 727.6 incidents per 100,000, which is the primary focus for local police. The data indicates a high level of physical security for all residents.

Simple ways to enhance your security

While violent crime is rare, property crime remains the most likely issue residents might face. Installing motion lighting and ensuring all entry points are secure can effectively deter burglars. Community vigilance helps maintain Cumberland County's excellent safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cumberland County

via HealthByCounty

Cumberland leads the region in longevity

At 79.3 years, Cumberland County residents live nearly 3 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years—a remarkable health advantage. Just 15.7% report poor or fair health, the lowest among all eight counties, reflecting strong preventive care and economic stability.

Pennsylvania's healthiest county in this cohort

Cumberland's 79.3-year life expectancy dramatically outpaces Pennsylvania's 76.4-year state average, ranking it in the top tier of the state's 67 counties. Its 5.3% uninsured rate also beats the state average of 7.0%, indicating robust economic health and access equity.

Clear outlier for prosperity and wellness

Cumberland's 79.3-year life expectancy towers over all regional peers, including Delaware County (77.6 years) and Clearfield (75.9 years), a gap of up to 3.4 years. With 87 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and strong uninsured rates, Cumberland demonstrates how resources translate to health.

Excellent primary care and mental health resources

Cumberland delivers 87 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—among the highest in this cohort—plus 249 mental health providers, ensuring comprehensive care access. This provider density, paired with a low uninsured rate of 5.3%, creates an unusually equitable health care environment.

Maintain Cumberland's health advantage

Though Cumberland leads in coverage, approximately 2,700 residents remain uninsured, missing opportunities for preventive care that sustains the county's exceptional longevity. Ensure your family is enrolled at Healthcare.gov—maintaining universal coverage strengthens the county's competitive health edge.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cumberland County

via SchoolsByCounty

A High-Capacity Suburban School System

Nine districts manage 57 public schools in Cumberland County, serving a large student population of 33,071. This expansive network includes 37 elementary schools to accommodate a growing number of families.

Top Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

Cumberland County schools achieve a 93.2% graduation rate, beating the national average. Remarkably, the county achieves these results with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,120, which is well below the state average of $10,336.

The Massive Reach of Cumberland Valley

Cumberland Valley SD is the largest district by far, educating 10,003 students across 11 schools. No charter schools are currently operating in the county, making traditional districts the sole providers of public education.

Suburban Hubs and Significant Campus Sizes

The county is primarily suburban, featuring 36 suburban locales and an average school size of 580 students. Cumberland Valley High School is a regional standout, serving a massive 3,035 students on its campus.

Invest in a Home Near Premier Schools

Cumberland County is a magnet for families seeking high-performing suburban schools and efficient district management. Areas like Mechanicsburg and Carlisle are highly sought after due to the reputation of their respective school systems.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cumberland County

via RiskByCounty

Cumberland ranks as moderately hazard-prone

A composite risk score of 86.20 places Cumberland well above the national average, earning a Relatively Moderate risk rating. The county faces high exposure across nearly all hazard categories, particularly from flooding (91.13), earthquakes (81.93), and hurricanes (87.44).

Second-highest risk in Pennsylvania

Cumberland's 86.20 score ranks second only to Delaware County (92.91) among Pennsylvania's 67 counties, significantly exceeding the state average of 67.45. This elevated position reflects the county's central location and proximity to major seismic zones, tornado corridors, and hurricane-influenced weather patterns.

Dramatically riskier than northern counterparts

Cumberland (86.20) faces substantially higher composite risk than Clearfield (67.11) or Clinton (51.78) counties to the north, with particularly acute exposure to tornadoes and earthquakes. Only southeastern Delaware County exceeds Cumberland's hazard burden, making the south-central corridor Pennsylvania's most disaster-prone region.

Floods, earthquakes, and tornadoes align here

Flood risk dominates at 91.13, while earthquake risk of 81.93 and tornado risk of 68.16 create a triple-threat hazard profile. These three hazards collectively drive Cumberland's Relatively Moderate rating and demand comprehensive household preparedness across multiple disaster types.

Multi-hazard insurance strategy essential

Flood insurance at 91.13 flood risk is absolutely critical; pair it with earthquake coverage given the 81.93 seismic exposure. Reinforce your home's roof and foundation to withstand both tornadoes (68.16 risk) and earthquakes, and maintain an emergency kit addressing all three primary hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cumberland County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and temperate transitions

Cumberland County’s average temperature of 52.3°F is near the national median, reflecting a milder mid-Atlantic climate. This area experiences significantly more warmth than the northern Pennsylvania counties.

Among the state's warmest

Cumberland is notably warmer than the Pennsylvania average of 49.9°F. Its location in the Cumberland Valley provides a longer growing season and more heat than the Allegheny plateau.

A match for Dauphin County

Cumberland shares an identical 52.3°F annual average with neighboring Dauphin County. Both counties receive roughly 45 inches of precipitation, which is standard for the state.

Hot summers and manageable snow

The county endures 21 days of extreme heat above 90°F, with July averages reaching a warm 74.4°F. Winters are milder than northern counties, with 30.7 inches of snow and a 31.9°F winter average.

Focus on summer cooling

With three weeks of 90-degree days, efficient central air conditioning is a necessity here. Winter planning is still required, but snow totals are manageable compared to the lake-effect regions.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cumberland County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced Valley Alfisols

Cumberland County features Alfisols with a pH of 5.39, making it one of the least acidic counties in the region. This is higher than the state average of 5.22, though it remains below the national 6.5 median.

Channery Silt Loam Mix

The soil is a channery silt loam, made of 45.2% silt, 29.2% sand, and 16.8% clay. The presence of 'channery' stone fragments helps maintain soil structure and improves drainage in heavy rain.

Reliable Garden Performance

The available water capacity of 0.147 in/in is nearly identical to the state average, providing a stable moisture environment. Organic matter sits at 7.46%, which is healthy and well above the national 2.0% benchmark.

Optimized for Drainage

These soils are well-drained and belong to hydrologic group B, ensuring that water moves through the root zone at a moderate, healthy pace. This makes the county a prime location for both commercial agriculture and home landscaping.

Warmer Seasons in 7a

Hardiness zone 7a allows you to grow longer-season crops like peppers and sweet potatoes. The balanced pH and stone-flecked silt loam make Cumberland County a gardener’s paradise.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cumberland County

via LawnByCounty

Premier Lawn Growth in Cumberland

Cumberland County features a high lawn difficulty score of 62.2, making it one of the most favorable spots for lawn care in Pennsylvania. The Zone 7a climate allows for a longer and more productive growing season than the state average.

High Energy and High Heat

A high count of 3,237 growing degree days means grass grows quickly here, requiring more frequent mowing. However, the 21 extreme heat days—nearly double the state average—can cause cool-season grasses to go dormant in July.

Healthy Drainage with Acidic Leanings

The soil consists of well-drained channery silt loam, which provides an excellent base for root development. You will still need to address the 5.39 pH level with lime to hit the sweet spot of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal health.

Managing Severe Dry Conditions

While most counties are only abnormally dry, 7.8% of Cumberland is currently in severe drought. After 22 weeks of drought over the past year, water conservation through mulching and smart irrigation is essential for survival.

Starting Early in Zone 7a

Tall Fescue is the best choice for Cumberland because of its superior heat tolerance during those 21 scorching days. Your growing window is long, extending from the early frost date of April 19 to the late fall frost on October 24.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cumberland County's county score?
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 53 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 Cumberland County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Cumberland County ranks #32 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 Cumberland County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Cumberland County is $3,180, with an effective tax rate of 1.21%. This earns Cumberland County a tax score of 25/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cumberland County?
The median household income in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania is $85,634 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cumberland County earns an income score of 89/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cumberland County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Cumberland County scores 53/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Cumberland 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 Cumberland County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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