51.1
County Score
Schools 76.8Lawn Care 67.3Cost of Living 59.6

County Report Card

About Mercer County, Pennsylvania

Outperforming the National Median

Mercer County earns a composite score of 51.1, edging out the national median score of 50.0. This makes it a statistically strong performer for overall livability and resource access.

Matching the Pennsylvania Standard

The county sits right at the Pennsylvania average of 51.8, proving its stability within the state's economic landscape. It offers a balanced profile that rivals neighboring western Pennsylvania counties.

Academic Excellence and Low Rent

The school score of 76.8 is a standout highlight for local families. Affordability is also a major draw, as the cost score of 59.6 is supported by a median gross rent of only $808.

Income Growth and Risk Resilience

Economic mobility is a challenge, reflected in an income score of 40.9 and a risk score of 22.3. The median household income of $60,614 is lower than many of its statewide peers.

Perfect for Young Growing Families

Mercer County is an excellent fit for families who prioritize high-quality public schools and low monthly housing expenses. It rewards those who seek a stable, community-focused lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax22.4Cost59.6Safety49.4Health58.5Schools76.8Income40.9Risk22.3Water30.9Weather58.8
🏛22.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠59.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼40.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡49.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
58.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓76.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
22.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧30.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤58.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨55.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱67.3
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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Deep Dives

Mercer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Mercer County

via TaxByCounty

Mercer's tax rate is below U.S. average

Mercer County's effective tax rate of 1.265% sits slightly below the national median of 1.2%, placing it in the lower-to-middle tier of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $1,943 trails the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower home values and a relatively moderate tax rate. For homeowners seeking lower tax exposure, Mercer offers comparative relief.

Below Pennsylvania's state average

At 1.265%, Mercer's effective rate falls slightly below Pennsylvania's state average of 1.317%, ranking in the lower half of the state's 67 counties. This modest tax rate makes Mercer one of the more affordable counties in the state from a property tax perspective.

Most tax-friendly in its region

Mercer's 1.265% rate is the lowest among its neighbors, undercutting Lycoming (1.353%), Montour (1.030%), McKean (1.636%), and Monroe (1.839%). The county stands out as a relative tax haven in northcentral Pennsylvania, particularly attractive to price-sensitive homebuyers.

Median home generates $1,943 annual tax

A homeowner with Mercer's median property value of $153,600 pays approximately $1,943 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill may rise to $2,065; without one, it drops to $1,813, illustrating a moderate tax burden for the region.

Appeals can still provide modest savings

Even in lower-tax counties, overassessment occurs—some Mercer properties may be valued above fair market worth. Filing a reassessment request or formal tax appeal with the county could recover a few hundred dollars annually if your home is overvalued relative to recent comparable sales.

Cost of Living in Mercer County

via CostByCounty

Mercer stays slightly ahead nationally

Mercer County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio edges out the national standard, offering mild affordability advantages on a $60,614 median income. Rent averages $808 monthly, keeping housing costs lean for a county below the national income median.

Among Pennsylvania's most affordable

Mercer ranks near the top of Pennsylvania's affordability ladder with a 16.0% rent-to-income ratio, beating the state average of 16.5%. The county's $808 median rent reflects a consistent pattern of lower housing costs across western Pennsylvania.

The middle ground of northwest PA

Mercer's $808 rent sits between McKean ($769) and Lycoming ($887), while its $153,600 median home value bridges the gap between McKean's $98,700 and Lycoming's $195,600. The county offers a balanced third option for those exploring the region.

Balanced renting and ownership costs

Renters allocate $808 monthly (16% of $60,614 income) while homeowners pay $767 monthly (15.2%). This symmetry makes Mercer appealing for both demographics, with neither group overextended on housing.

Mercer splits the difference regionally

Seeking the sweet spot between McKean's rock-bottom costs and Lycoming's slightly higher values? Mercer offers balanced housing prices and ownership affordability across a stable regional job market.

Income & Jobs in Mercer County

via IncomeByCounty

Mercer household income well below national

Mercer County's median household income of $60,614 falls $14,100 short of the national median of $74,755, a 19% decline. This gap places Mercer among lower-income counties nationally, reflecting decades of industrial decline in northwest Pennsylvania.

Lowest-income county in this cohort

At $60,614, Mercer ranks notably below Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614 by roughly $9,000 per household. Its per capita income of $33,320 also underperforms the state average of $37,407, indicating widespread modest earning power.

Challenges shared across the region

Mercer's $60,614 income trails nearby Lycoming ($64,412), McKean ($61,705), and Mifflin ($61,415) counties. The county sits in a rust-belt region where manufacturing decline has created persistent challenges for household earnings and economic stability.

Affordable rents support stretched budgets

Mercer's rent-to-income ratio of 16.0% shows housing remains manageable despite low incomes. The median home value of $153,600 offers modest homeownership opportunity, though it reflects a softened market tied to limited earning power.

Wealth-building requires deliberate action

With median household income at $60,614, Mercer residents must prioritize aggressive financial planning and asset accumulation. Taking advantage of low housing costs to build equity, combined with consistent saving and investment, can help households overcome regional economic headwinds.

Safety in Mercer County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong Safety Standards in Mercer County

Mercer County enjoys a safety score of 98.2, outperforming national averages for public safety. The total crime rate here is 1,136.5 per 100,000, which is less than half the national rate of 2,385.5.

Aligning With Pennsylvania Safety Levels

The county's safety score of 98.2 is just a fraction below the state average of 98.5. While its total crime rate of 1,136.5 is higher than the state average of 932.4, it remains a relatively secure area within the Commonwealth.

Mercer Holds Middle Ground Regionally

Mercer's crime rate of 1,136.5 is lower than McKean's 1,441.0 but slightly higher than Lycoming's 1,065.6. It remains more secure than heavily populated areas like Montgomery County, which reports 1,465.8 crimes per 100,000 residents.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

Property crimes occur at a rate of 920.4 per 100,000, making them the most common security issue in the county. Violent crime is less frequent at 216.1 per 100,000, though this exceeds the state average of 142.2.

Secure Your Home and Vehicles

Most local crime involves property, so securing your residence is the most effective way to stay safe. Using deadbolts and smart doorbells can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a statistic.

Health in Mercer County

via HealthByCounty

Mercer residents face longevity gap vs. nation

Mercer County's 74.6-year life expectancy falls 4.4 years short of the U.S. average of 79 years, placing it among the nation's lower-performing counties. The 17.9% poor or fair health rate—the highest among counties examined here—signals a population struggling with chronic conditions and health management. This gap reflects both individual health behaviors and structural barriers to preventive and specialty care.

Pennsylvania's lower health tier by longevity

Mercer's 74.6-year life expectancy ranks in the bottom tier of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, trailing the state average of 76.4 years by 1.8 years. The uninsured rate of 7.0% matches the state average exactly, indicating typical coverage patterns in Pennsylvania. Primary care provider availability at 62 per 100K residents falls below state norms, creating access gaps for routine care.

Worst health outcomes in regional peer group

Mercer's 74.6-year life expectancy is among the lowest in its regional cluster, edged only by McKean (74.7) and far below Montour (77.5) and Lycoming (76.1). The county's 17.9% poor/fair health rate is the highest regionally, suggesting concentrated health challenges. Mental health provider density at 220 per 100K is respectable, but primary care shortages undermine overall system capacity.

Primary care shortage defines daily healthcare reality

With just 62 primary care providers per 100K residents, Mercer residents often delay routine check-ups and preventive screenings due to limited availability and long wait times. The 17.9% poor/fair health rate suggests many residents are already managing chronic conditions without regular doctor oversight. This gap between need and supply perpetuates the cycle of late-stage diagnoses and hospital emergencies.

Get insured—your health depends on it

With 7.0% of residents uninsured and provider shortages already straining the system, coverage becomes essential for navigating Mercer's constrained healthcare landscape. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Marketplace to explore plans that fit your budget and health needs. Insurance opens doors to the preventive and specialty care that could add years to your life.

Schools in Mercer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive School Choice in Mercer County

Mercer County features 37 public schools organized into 14 different school districts. This system supports 13,099 students across a variety of levels, including 15 elementary and 14 high schools.

Academic Excellence and High Investment

The county boasts a 91.3% graduation rate, which is higher than both the state and national averages. Local investment is clear, as the $11,450 per-pupil expenditure exceeds the Pennsylvania average of $10,336, resulting in a strong school score of 63.8.

Hermitage and Grove City Lead the Way

The Hermitage School District serves 2,026 students, while Grove City Area SD manages six schools for 1,899 students. Charter school options are present but limited, representing just 2.7% of the total school landscape.

Suburban and Town School Environments

Most students attend schools in suburban (17) or town (13) settings, with an average school size of 354 students. Hickory High School is the largest in the county with 811 students, ensuring most facilities maintain a mid-sized, approachable feel.

Invest in a High-Performing School District

With graduation rates and school scores that lead the region, Mercer County is a prime destination for families. Explore real estate near top-performing districts like Hermitage and Grove City to secure your family's educational future.

Disaster Risk in Mercer County

via RiskByCounty

Mercer's risk exceeds national norms

With a composite risk score of 77.74, Mercer County faces above-average natural disaster exposure compared to typical U.S. counties. The county's "Relatively Low" rating indicates that while hazards are present, they remain manageable with appropriate preparation. Residents should prioritize protections for the hazards that score highest.

Above average for Pennsylvania

Mercer County's risk score of 77.74 exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it among the state's more vulnerable counties. The county's flood (87.88) and tornado (55.34) exposures drive much of this elevated ranking. Despite above-average risk, Mercer maintains a "Relatively Low" rating, meaning hazards are significant but not extreme.

Comparable risk to nearby counties

Mercer County's score of 77.74 is close to Lycoming County (79.58) and significantly higher than McKean County (53.78) to the east. It trails Monroe County (85.08) and Northampton County (90.01) but substantially exceeds Montour County (14.66). Mercer residents face similar challenge levels to those in Lycoming but greater safety than the state's highest-risk counties.

Flooding and tornadoes pose risks

Mercer County's flood risk score of 87.88 represents the county's most serious hazard—among the highest in Pennsylvania. Tornado exposure ranks second at 55.34, making severe thunderstorms a genuine seasonal concern. Wildfire risk is moderate at 36.35, adding another consideration for property owners in forested areas.

Prepare for flooding and storms

Flood insurance is essential in Mercer County given its 87.88 risk score; standard homeowners coverage excludes flood damage entirely. Install a safe room or underground shelter to protect your family during tornado season, typically spring and early summer. Maintain trees around your home to reduce wind damage risk during severe thunderstorms.

Weather & Climate in Mercer County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Temps in the Northwest

Mercer County averages 48.5°F, placing it well below the national median temperature. The climate is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Great Lakes, leading to cooler overall conditions.

Below the Pennsylvania Mean

The county sits 1.4 degrees below the state average of 49.9°F. Its location on the western border subjects it to colder air masses moving across the Midwestern plains.

Milder Summers Than Neighbors

With only 6 extreme heat days, Mercer offers a much cooler summer than Lawrence County’s 21 days. While local precipitation data is limited, its temperature patterns suggest a standard humid continental cycle.

Cold Winters and Gentle Summers

January averages a chilly 25.5°F, contributing to a 28.0°F winter average. Summer is mild by comparison, with July temperatures peaking at a comfortable 69.2°F.

Focus on Winter Heating Efficiency

Reliable heating is the priority given the cold 25.5°F January average. While specific snowfall records are limited, residents should prepare for typical Great Lakes winter conditions.

Soil Quality in Mercer County

via SoilByCounty

Stronger pH Scores in the West

Mercer County soil is less acidic than many of its neighbors, sporting an average pH of 5.51. While this is still below the national median of 6.5, it is noticeably healthier than the state average of 5.22. This slightly higher pH makes nutrient management easier for local farmers and home gardeners.

High Silt Content Dominates

The soil is comprised of 46.9% silt, 30.5% sand, and 14.9% clay, creating a very silty profile. This mix provides a smooth, flour-like texture that is excellent for seed germination but susceptible to surface crusting after heavy rains. The balanced clay and sand ratio helps maintain a workable structure for most of the year.

Excellent Water Storage Capacity

The county's available water capacity of 0.161 in/in sits above the state average of 0.151 in/in, providing a reliable reservoir for crops. While the organic matter content of 8.46% is lower than the Pennsylvania average of 12.14%, it remains four times higher than the national average. This combination supports consistent growth even through moderate summer heat.

Varying Landscapes and Water Flow

Specific dominant drainage classifications are currently not recorded in the primary dataset for Mercer County. Given the high silt and moderate clay levels, drainage likely varies significantly between the rolling hills and flatter plains. Testing individual backyard drainage is a recommended first step for any new landscaping project.

Diverse Potential in Zone 6a

Falling within USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Mercer County supports a wide variety of temperate perennials and vegetables. The relatively high water capacity makes it an excellent spot for thirsty crops like sweet corn or leafy greens. Start your garden this spring and take advantage of some of the state's more balanced soil chemistry.

Lawn Care in Mercer County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Growing in Western PA

With a score of 67.3, Mercer County offers one of the most favorable lawn environments in the state. This Zone 6a region significantly outperforms both the Pennsylvania average of 59.2 and the national median of 50.0.

Temperate Summers Aid Growth

The county stays relatively temperate with only 6 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 11. Although local precipitation data is limited, 2,525 growing degree days provide a steady pace for healthy turf development.

Strengthening the Silt-Heavy Foundation

Local soil registers a pH of 5.51, which is acidic but closer to the ideal 6.0 range than many neighboring counties. The mixture of 14.9% clay and 30.5% sand provides a foundation that usually responds well to standard fertilization.

Maintaining Stability During Drought

Drought resilience is a strength here, as the county saw only 7 weeks of drought over the last year. Currently, 79.2% of the area is abnormally dry, suggesting homeowners should maintain a regular watering schedule to prevent stress.

Seeding for Success in Mercer

Tall Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are the top performers for Mercer's climate and soil. Time your planting between the spring frost on May 15 and the fall frost on October 3 for peak establishment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mercer County's county score?
Mercer County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 51.1 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 Mercer County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Mercer County ranks #43 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 Mercer County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Mercer County is $1,943, with an effective tax rate of 1.26%. This earns Mercer County a tax score of 22.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Mercer County?
The median household income in Mercer County, Pennsylvania is $60,614 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Mercer County earns an income score of 40.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Mercer County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Mercer County scores 51.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #43 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Mercer 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 Mercer County with other counties side by side.