countyscore

Northumberland County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#40 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
51.7
County Score
Water Quality 63.2Safety 62.9Cost of Living 62.2

County Report Card

About Northumberland County, Pennsylvania

Northumberland Surpasses National Median Score

Northumberland County earns a composite score of 51.7, placing it slightly above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a quality of life that is competitive with many rural and mid-sized counties across the United States.

Aligning With the Pennsylvania Average

The county's 51.7 score sits nearly level with the Pennsylvania state average of 51.8. It offers a standard Keystone State experience, balancing affordability with local infrastructure.

High Affordability and Reliable Infrastructure

The county shines in water quality and safety, posting scores of 63.2 and 62.9 respectively. Housing is a major draw, with a cost score of 62.2 and a median gross rent of only $777 per month.

Environmental Risks and High Tax Burdens

Natural disaster risk is a concern here, reflected in a low risk score of 20.8. Financial pressures exist as well, with a tax score of 26.8 driven by an effective property tax rate of 1.173%.

A Haven for Budget-Conscious Renters

Northumberland is best suited for individuals or families prioritizing low monthly housing costs and safe neighborhoods. While tax rates are higher, the median home value of $151,600 makes entry into the market more accessible than in many neighboring regions.

Score breakdown

Tax26.8Cost62.2Safety62.9Health60.1Schools50.8Income32.7Risk20.8Water63.2Weather56.2
🏛26.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠62.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡62.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤60.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡20.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧63.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱52.2
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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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Northumberland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Northumberland County

via TaxByCounty

Northumberland's Tax Rate Beats National Average

At 1.173%, Northumberland's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 1.31%, putting the county in the lower half of American tax burdens. Homeowners here pay $1,778 annually on a median home valued at $151,600—significantly less than the national median tax bill of $2,690.

Below Average Within Pennsylvania

Northumberland ranks among the more affordable counties in Pennsylvania, with an effective rate of 1.173% versus the state average of 1.317%. The county's median property tax of $1,778 trails the state median of $2,657, offering modest savings for homeowners.

Competitive With Regional Peers

Northumberland's 1.173% rate places it below neighboring Snyder County (1.169%) and Perry County (1.246%), though slightly above Potter County's 1.278%. The county offers a middle-ground tax environment for central Pennsylvania homeowners.

What $151,600 Home Costs Annually

On Northumberland's median home value of $151,600, property owners pay approximately $1,778 per year in taxes. Those with mortgages typically see that figure rise to $1,900, while outright owners pay around $1,663.

Challenge Your Assessment

Many Northumberland homeowners are overassessed relative to recent sales data and could recoup hundreds annually through a formal appeal. County assessment offices process challenges regularly—check your county's website for filing deadlines and procedures.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Northumberland County

via CostByCounty

Northumberland Beats National Affordability

Renters here spend just 16.1% of income on housing, better than the national average and below Pennsylvania's 16.5% state average. With a median household income of $57,948—trailing the national median of $74,755—Northumberland residents are still managing housing costs more efficiently than many peers across the country.

Middle of the Pack Statewide

Northumberland ranks mid-tier among Pennsylvania counties for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio near the state average. The county's $777 monthly median rent is substantially below the state median of $960, helping offset slightly lower household incomes.

Affordable Compared to Rural Peers

Northumberland's $777 rent aligns closely with nearby Potter County ($767) and Schuylkill County ($842), making it a reliable option in rural Pennsylvania. Median home values here ($151,600) fall between Potter County ($146,200) and nearby counties, reflecting stable rural housing markets.

Housing Takes 16% of Paychecks

At $57,948 median household income, renters allocate $777 monthly to gross rent, while homeowners pay $792 in ownership costs. Together, these figures show housing consumes roughly 16% of household income—a manageable burden compared to national standards where 30% is considered affordable.

Consider Northumberland for Stability

If you're relocating to Pennsylvania and seeking affordable rentals with stable incomes, Northumberland offers lower rents than the state average without the affordability crisis facing urban centers. Compare it to Philadelphia's 26.2% rent-to-income ratio and you'll see the significant cost-of-living advantage rural areas provide.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Northumberland County

via IncomeByCounty

Northumberland lags national income

Northumberland's median household income of $57,948 falls 22.5% below the nation's $74,755 median. This income gap reflects broader economic challenges in central Pennsylvania's post-industrial communities.

Below state average earnings

At $57,948, Northumberland ranks below Pennsylvania's state median of $69,614, placing it in the lower half of the state's 67 counties. The county's per capita income of $32,241 also trails the state average of $37,407.

County earns less than adjacent areas

Northumberland residents earn significantly less than nearby Perry County ($78,824) and Pike County ($79,318), but slightly more than Somerset County ($59,378). The $20,000+ income gap with wealthier neighbors underscores regional economic disparities.

Housing costs manageable here

A 16.1% rent-to-income ratio signals affordable housing for renters in Northumberland—well below the 30% threshold that signals affordability stress. The median home value of $151,600 remains accessible for many households earning near the county median.

Build financial security intentionally

With modest but stable household incomes, Northumberland residents benefit from disciplined saving and employer retirement plans. Even small monthly investments in 401(k)s or IRAs compound significantly over decades, bridging the income gap with wealthier regions.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Northumberland County

via CrimeByCounty

Northumberland County is Significantly Safer Than National Average

The county reports a total crime rate of 856.1 per 100,000 residents, which is nearly three times lower than the national rate of 2,385.5. This low frequency of incidents earns the county an impressive safety score of 98.6 out of 100. Residents enjoy a security profile that far exceeds the national baseline.

Beating State Averages for Overall Safety

Northumberland County maintains a safety score of 98.6, slightly edging out the Pennsylvania state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 856.1 per 100,000 is notably better than the state's average of 932.4. These figures place the county in a strong position relative to its Pennsylvania peers.

Local Comparisons Favor Northumberland Residents

While Northumberland's crime rate of 856.1 is higher than Perry County's 768.4, it remains safer than Schuylkill County, which reports 928.1 incidents per 100,000 residents. The county sits in a regional pocket of high safety. It shares similar security trends with neighboring Snyder County.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

Property crime accounts for 735.7 incidents per 100,000 people, while the violent crime rate remains low at 120.4. For context, the local violent crime rate is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Most residents are unlikely to encounter violent crime in their daily lives.

Staying Vigilant Against Property Theft

Because property crime makes up the bulk of local incidents, residents should prioritize home security measures. Simple steps like motion-sensor lighting and smart cameras can deter opportunistic theft. Consistent awareness keeps these already low crime numbers moving in the right direction.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Northumberland County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy slightly below U.S. average

Northumberland County residents live to an average age of 75.6 years, about 1.4 years less than the U.S. average of 77 years. One in five adults report poor or fair health, slightly higher than national rates, suggesting underlying health challenges across the population.

Ranking near middle of Pennsylvania

At 75.6 years, Northumberland's life expectancy trails the state average of 76.4 years by about eight months. The county's 19.1% poor/fair health rate is close to state norms, reflecting typical health conditions for rural Pennsylvania.

Health profile mirrors nearby counties

Northumberland tracks closely with neighboring Schuylkill County (74.5 years) and Montour County in overall health trends. The county outperforms Pike County's exceptional 79.3-year average but aligns with similar-sized counties in the region.

Good provider access, low uninsured rate

Just 6.7% of Northumberland residents lack health insurance—better than the state average of 7%—indicating strong coverage relative to Pennsylvania. The county offers 44 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 63 mental health providers per 100,000, providing reasonable access to care.

Already well-covered, but check for gaps

Northumberland's 6.7% uninsured rate is one of the best in the state, but that still means thousands of residents without coverage. If you're among the uninsured, visit healthcare.gov or contact your county health office to explore Medicaid, ACA plans, and local health programs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Northumberland County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Solid Network Across Six Districts

Northumberland County operates 22 public schools, including eight elementary, seven middle, and seven high schools. These facilities serve a total enrollment of 10,636 students managed across six distinct school districts. The infrastructure provides a balanced spread of age levels to support the county's youth.

Evaluating Results and Local Investment

The county's graduation rate sits at 84.9%, which trails the Pennsylvania state average of 90.3% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $9,006, falling below the state average of $10,336. The composite school score of 55.2 reflects a system performing just above the national median but below state standards.

Leading Districts and Enrollment Hubs

Shikellamy School District stands as the largest in the county, educating 2,803 students across five schools. Shamokin Area School District follows closely with 2,213 students enrolled in its four facilities. Notably, the county currently hosts zero charter schools, keeping public education centered within traditional districts.

Town and Rural Learning Environments

Education here takes place primarily in town settings, which house 14 schools, while eight schools serve rural areas. The average school size is 483 students, though facilities like Shikellamy High School reach enrollments of 887. This mix ensures that most students attend mid-sized institutions close to their local communities.

Find Your Home Near Local Schools

Choosing a home in Northumberland County often means balancing proximity to town centers with the desire for rural space. Families can find diverse housing options near established campuses like Shamokin Area Elementary. Consider how these local school districts align with your family's needs while exploring available real estate.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Northumberland County

via RiskByCounty

Northumberland's risk sits above the national baseline

With a composite risk score of 79.17, Northumberland County faces relatively low overall disaster risk but scores notably higher than the national average in several hazard categories. The county's hurricane risk of 79.81 and flood risk of 88.30 are particularly elevated, reflecting its exposure to Atlantic-influenced weather systems and river valley geography.

Mid-range risk among Pennsylvania counties

Northumberland's score of 79.17 places it above Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, making it moderately exposed by state standards. The county ranks higher in flood and hurricane risk than most of its peer counties across central Pennsylvania, primarily due to Susquehanna River proximity.

Riskier than Snyder, safer than Schuylkill

Among its neighbors, Northumberland sits in the middle: it's significantly riskier than nearby Snyder County (54.29) and Perry County (53.12), but less exposed than Schuylkill County (85.31). The key difference is Northumberland's elevated flood and hurricane risk, which neighbors to the west experience less severely.

Floods and hurricanes pose greatest hazards

Northumberland's two dominant threats are flooding (88.30) and hurricane impacts (79.81), both driven by the county's position along the Susquehanna River valley and its susceptibility to Atlantic weather systems. Tornado risk (46.88) and earthquake risk (63.68) are moderate but secondary concerns compared to water-related events.

Prioritize flood and wind coverage now

Residents should ensure comprehensive flood insurance is in place, as standard homeowners policies don't cover flood damage—particularly critical given the county's 88.30 flood risk rating. Verify that your policy includes adequate wind and hail coverage to protect against severe storms and hurricane-force winds.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Northumberland County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Temperatures and Moderate Rain

Northumberland County averages 50.4°F annually, which closely tracks the national median. It experiences a classic humid continental climate with four distinct and equal seasons.

Matching the Pennsylvania Profile

The county’s average temperature is nearly identical to the state average of 49.9°F. Its 45.8 inches of annual precipitation also mirrors the statewide average of 45.3 inches almost perfectly.

A Middle Ground for Snowfall

At 31.1 inches of annual snow, Northumberland sits in the middle of the state's snowfall spectrum. It is less snowy than the Poconos to the east but more active than the southern valleys.

Consistent Summers and Crisp Winters

The county sees 13 days of extreme heat above 90°F during its 72.5°F July summers. January temperatures average 27.1°F, necessitating standard winter heating for several months.

Standard Seasonal Home Care

Residents should prepare for a balanced mix of weather, requiring both robust heating and moderate cooling systems. The 31.1 inches of snow is manageable with a standard shovel or small snowblower.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Northumberland County

via SoilByCounty

Silt Loam and Acidic Entisols

Northumberland's soil is dominated by Entisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.22. This acidic profile matches the state average but sits well below the national median of 6.5.

Balanced Silt and Sand Mix

The ground consists of 46.9% silt, 30.2% sand, and 16.2% clay. This mix provides a smooth, workable texture that balances drainage with enough clay to hold onto vital nutrients.

Rich Organic Matter and Moisture

Organic matter levels reach 7.03%, significantly higher than the 2.0% national average. The available water capacity of 0.159 in/in provides excellent moisture storage for local crops compared to the state average of 0.151 in/in.

Managing Poorly Drained Ground

Classified as very poorly drained and falling into hydrologic group B/D, these soils require careful water management. High water tables here can complicate construction and early spring planting schedules.

Hardy Crops for Zone 6b

In USDA hardiness zone 6b, this soil supports robust corn and soybean production. Local gardeners can expect great success with cool-season vegetables and hardy fruit trees.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Northumberland County

via LawnByCounty

Slightly Better Than Average Lawn Conditions

Northumberland County earns a lawn difficulty score of 52.2, placing it just above the national median of 50.0 but trailing the Pennsylvania state average of 59.2. Homeowners in this USDA Hardiness Zone 6b region face a moderate challenge compared to their neighbors. Maintaining a lush turf here requires a more hands-on approach than in easier parts of the state.

Ample Rainfall Meets Moderate Summer Heat

The county receives 45.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is slightly above the state average of 45.2 inches. With 13 extreme heat days per year and 2,874 growing degree days, lawns experience consistent growth throughout the summer. This climate supports a steady mowing schedule without the excessive stress of more southern climates.

Tackling Very Poor Drainage and Acidity

Local silt loam soils have a pH of 5.22, significantly below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, necessitating regular lime applications. The soil is classified as very poorly drained despite a 30.2% sand content, meaning water may pool after heavy rains. You should prioritize aeration and pH balancing to keep root systems healthy in these conditions.

Managing Stress After Long Dry Spells

The county has spent 33 weeks in drought conditions over the past year, and currently, 100% of the area is considered abnormally dry. To preserve your lawn during these stretches, water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Avoid mowing during peak heat to prevent further stress on thirsty grass.

Seeding for Success in Zone 6b

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Tall Fescue are the best picks for this climate. Aim to seed after the last spring frost on April 30 or before the first fall frost on October 20. With the right grass type and soil prep, your lawn can thrive despite the region's drainage challenges.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Northumberland County's county score?
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 51.7 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 Northumberland County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Northumberland County ranks #40 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 Northumberland County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Northumberland County is $1,778, with an effective tax rate of 1.17%. This earns Northumberland County a tax score of 26.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Northumberland County?
The median household income in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania is $57,948 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Northumberland County earns an income score of 32.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Northumberland County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Northumberland County scores 51.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #40 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Northumberland 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 Northumberland 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.