countyscore
55
County Score
Schools 84.9Income & Jobs 73.8Safety 68.9

County Report Card

About Union County, Pennsylvania

A National Leader in Livability

Union County achieves a composite score of 55.0, surpassing the national median of 50.0. This places it in the upper quartile of desirable counties in the United States.

Standout in Central Pennsylvania

With a 55.0 score against a state average of 51.8, Union is a regional leader. It consistently outperforms neighboring counties in both economic and educational metrics.

Economic Vitality and Education

Economic health is robust, featuring an income score of 73.8 and a median income of $72,894. The high school score of 84.9 further cements its reputation as a family-friendly hub.

High Costs and Taxes

High demand leads to a cost score of 31.1 and median home values of $222,900. The tax score of 25.8 also reflects the premium paid for the county's high-quality services.

The Professional’s Choice

Union is ideal for career-minded families who want the best schools and high earning potential. It is a premium Pennsylvania destination where cost is offset by opportunity.

2040608010025.831.168.965.884.973.844.849.353.8Tax25.8Cost31.1Safety68.9Health65.8Schools84.9Income73.8Risk44.8Water49.3Weather53.855/100
This county
National avg
4 above average2 below average

Union County DNA

Foverall

How Union County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Union County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Schools (84.9/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (25.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
25.8-26.2
Cost
31.1-16.9
Safety
68.9+13.900000000000006
Health
65.8+15.799999999999997
Schools
84.9+30.900000000000006
Income
73.8+22.799999999999997
Risk
44.8
Water
49.3-8.700000000000003
Weather
53.8
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Union County?

Many homeowners in Union County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$222,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$944/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$222,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,760/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $72,894/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

4.7

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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54.9

Nearby counties

Snyder County
Pennsylvania
51.7
Northumberland County
Pennsylvania
51.7
Montour County
Pennsylvania
60.1
Lycoming County
Pennsylvania
46.9
Columbia County
Pennsylvania
55.4
Juniata County
Pennsylvania
56.7
Clinton County
Pennsylvania
56.1
Mifflin County
Pennsylvania
46.2

Deep Dives

Union County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Union County

via TaxByCounty

Union Slightly Below U.S. Average Rate

Union County's effective tax rate of 1.196% falls just below the national median of 1.281%, though homeowners here face a tax bill nearly matching the national average. At $2,667 in median annual property taxes, the county hovers just below the U.S. median of $2,690, reflecting typical national tax burden.

Near Pennsylvania's State Average

Union County's effective rate of 1.196% edges below Pennsylvania's average of 1.317%, while its median property tax of $2,667 sits just above the state average of $2,657. The county represents a middle-of-the-road tax environment within the Commonwealth.

Higher Than Most Regional Peers

Union's 1.196% rate exceeds Sullivan (1.051%), Susquehanna (1.148%), and Tioga (1.189%), making it the highest among its immediate northeastern neighbors. Homeowners pay roughly $400–$600 more annually than comparable properties in adjacent counties.

Higher Home Values, Heftier Tax Bills

A median Union County home valued at $222,900 results in $2,667 in annual property taxes, the highest in its regional peer group. With mortgage considerations, the bill rises to $2,942; without them, it sits at $2,407, reflecting the county's larger home values.

Assessment Review Could Save Hundreds

Union County homeowners, especially those with properties at the higher end of the market, often carry inflated assessments. A property tax appeal costs nothing and can recoup thousands in overdue refunds or reduce future payments substantially.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Union County

via CostByCounty

Union County: Above-Average Income, Affordability

Union County's median income of $72,894 runs close to the national average of $74,755, and its 15.5% rent-to-income ratio beats both state and national norms. Renters here spend $944/month—closer to Pennsylvania's state average—but earn enough to absorb the cost comfortably.

Union Leads Pennsylvania in Income-to-Housing

Union County ranks among Pennsylvania's most affordable counties relative to local incomes, with a 15.5% rent-to-income ratio that outpaces the state's 16.5% average. Its $72,894 median income is the highest among this county cluster, providing residents stronger purchasing power.

Premium Rents, Premium Incomes in Union

Union's $944 rent and $1,057 mortgage are among the region's highest, but they pair with the cluster's highest median income ($72,894). This makes Union attractive to professionals and established households seeking stronger local economic fundamentals.

Union: High Income Cushions High Costs

Union County residents earning $72,894 allocate 15.5% to rent ($944/month) or similar percentages to mortgages ($1,057/month), leaving 84%+ for other expenses. The county's stronger income base allows households to absorb housing costs while maintaining financial flexibility.

Union County for Affluent Relocators

If your income is near or above $72,000, Union County's stronger economy and moderate affordability ratios make it worth considering despite higher rents and home values ($222,900). Compare Union's economic stability against cheaper options to determine whether you're paying for genuine opportunity.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Union County

via IncomeByCounty

Union exceeds national income baseline

Union County's median household income of $72,894 approaches the national median of $74,755, falling short by just $1,861 or 2.5%. This near-parity positions Union among stronger-earning rural Pennsylvania counties, closer to national averages than most of its regional peers.

Above-average earnings in Pennsylvania

Union's $72,894 exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614 by $3,280, placing the county in the upper half statewide. Per capita income of $36,765 sits below the state average of $37,407, suggesting household-level income strength rather than individual earning power.

Regional income leader among eight counties

Union's $72,894 ranks highest among the eight surveyed Pennsylvania counties, outpacing Washington ($77,487 in another measure) and leading Susquehanna, Sullivan, and all others. This leadership reflects Union's proximity to stronger regional economies and more diversified local employment.

Lowest housing burden in the group

Union's rent-to-income ratio of 15.5% is among the region's best, signaling excellent housing affordability for residents. With a median home value of $222,900 paired with solid household income, families here enjoy robust financial security.

Capitalize on above-average income position

Union households benefit from near-national-average incomes and low housing cost burdens, creating ideal conditions for aggressive retirement savings and investment. Leverage this advantage through diversified portfolios, home equity strategies, and continuous skill development to outpace regional and national wealth trends.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Union County

via CrimeByCounty

Union County ranks highly safe

Union County boasts a safety score of 98.8, nearly reaching the top of the scale. Its total crime rate of 729.4 per 100k is dramatically lower than the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding Pennsylvania safety norms

The county's 98.8 safety score sits above the Pennsylvania average of 98.5. Ten reporting agencies maintain a total crime rate of 729.4, which is significantly better than the state's 932.4 average.

A regional safety leader

Union County is notably safer than its neighbors, with a total crime rate of 729.4. This outperforms Susquehanna’s 736.9 and Sullivan’s 816.3.

Low risk for residents

Violent crime is minimal at 93.2 per 100k, compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up 636.2 incidents per 100k, the lowest property rate among its immediate peers.

Stay proactive about security

While Union County is very safe, property crimes still occur at a rate of 636.2 per 100k. Motion sensors and basic alarm systems provide excellent protection for local homeowners.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Union County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Town Schools with Big Impact

Union County's educational landscape features 10 public schools serving 3,930 students across four districts. This includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools, providing a balanced developmental track.

Leading the State in Graduation Success

The county achieves a remarkable 94.1% graduation rate, far exceeding the state's 90.3% average. A school score of 62.3 is maintained despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $10,068, showing high efficiency in student outcomes.

Spotlight on Lewisburg and Milton

Milton Area SD and Lewisburg Area SD lead the county in enrollment, serving roughly 1,900 students each. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring that traditional public districts remain the central hub for student life.

A Distinct Town-Centered Campus Feel

Unlike its more rural neighbors, Union County features nine schools in town locales, giving it a more walkable, community-integrated feel. Lewisburg HS is the largest school with 610 students, yet the average school size remains modest at 393.

Discover Homes in Top-Rated Districts

With town-centered schools and high academic performance, Union County is a prime location for families. Consider the Lewisburg or Mifflinburg areas for homes that offer direct access to these excellent public districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Union County

via RiskByCounty

Union County faces moderate national risk

Union County scores 55.25 nationally, placing it in the moderate range of U.S. disaster vulnerability. While not among the highest-risk American communities, this score indicates residents face meaningful natural hazard exposure requiring awareness and preparation.

Below Pennsylvania average for safety

Union County's composite score of 55.25 falls below Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, ranking it as relatively low-risk statewide. The county outperforms most of its peers across the Commonwealth on disaster resilience metrics.

Middle of the risk spectrum regionally

Union County (55.25) sits between the very-low-risk Sullivan County (10.72) and higher-exposure Warren County (65.55) in the central Pennsylvania region. The county's flood risk (71.82) and earthquake risk (43.58) distinguish it from Sullivan but make it comparable to other county neighbors.

Flood and hurricane create main hazards

Union County's top threats are flood risk (71.82) and hurricane risk (74.34), both well above state averages and creating compound water-related exposure. Tornado risk (33.75) and earthquake risk (43.58) present additional but less severe concerns for households.

Flood coverage essential for Union County

Union County residents should secure flood insurance as a separate policy, given flood risk of 71.82 and hurricane risk of 74.34. Comprehensive homeowners insurance combined with dedicated flood coverage provides the most complete financial protection for this county's specific hazard profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Union County

via WaterByCounty

Union County Outperforms State Drinking Water Averages

Union County holds a Grade D with only 1 health violation recorded over the past five years. Its violation rate of 17.5 per 100,000 is significantly lower than the Pennsylvania average of 86.5 and the national average.

Local Watersheds Currently Meet All Safety Standards

Assessment data from 2022 shows that 0.0% of the 19,050 water bodies in Union County are impaired. No top impairment causes were listed, indicating high watershed health relative to federal Clean Water Act standards.

Thirty-Four Sites Provide Consistent Water Quality Data

There are 34 monitoring sites in Union County that have generated 6,074 results over the last five years. Scientists primarily monitor physical characteristics, metals, and nutrients to ensure watershed stability.

Susquehanna River Flowing Above Historical Levels

The West Branch Susquehanna River at Allenwood currently measures 13,200 cfs, which is 121% of its long-term mean. This primary gauge manages a massive 6,496-square-mile drainage area.

Maintain Awareness Despite Strong Water Quality Metrics

Union County shows strong compliance and watershed health compared to its neighbors. Residents should continue to monitor local reports, especially as river levels rise above the typical mean, which can introduce seasonal variations in source water.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Union County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Mid-Atlantic Warmth and Humidity

Union County averages 51.1°F annually, which is slightly above the national median. It experiences a humid continental climate with a notable amount of summer heat days.

Warmer Than the Pennsylvania Average

Union’s 51.1°F average temperature exceeds the state average of 49.9°F. It is also one of the drier counties in the state, receiving 43.9 inches of precipitation compared to the 45.3-inch average.

The Warmest in the Immediate Region

Union is slightly warmer than neighboring Snyder County, averaging 51.1°F annually. It also sees the least snow in the local group, with only 28.8 inches per year.

Hot Summers and Brisk, Light Winters

Summer is pronounced here, featuring 18 days above 90°F and a July average of 73.3°F. Winters are relatively mild for the state, with a January average of 27.8°F and under 30 inches of snow.

Invest in High-Efficiency Summer Cooling

With 18 extreme heat days, a well-maintained air conditioning system is vital for comfort and safety. Winter needs are moderate, as the county receives only 28.8 inches of snow, the lowest in this eight-county set.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Union County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Entisols

Union County is characterized by Entisols with a pH of 5.16, which is more acidic than the state average of 5.22. This level is significantly lower than the 6.5 national median, often requiring lime for most commercial crops.

High-Silt Loam Textures

Silt loam is the primary texture, comprised of 46.5% silt and 16.5% clay. This high silt content ensures a smooth texture that holds onto essential nutrients and water better than sandy soils.

Solid Moisture Capacity

The organic matter content of 6.60% is lower than the state's 12.14% average but still triples the national average. Despite lower organic levels, the available water capacity remains above the state norm at 0.160 in/in.

Managing Saturated Soil

Soils here are classified as very poorly drained and fall into the B/D hydrologic group. This drainage profile presents challenges for traditional building and requires careful water management in commercial farming.

Moisture-Loving Crop Success

Located in Zone 6b, Union County offers a slightly longer growing season than its northern neighbors. Local gardeners succeed with moisture-loving crops like elderberries or specialized wetland-edge plants.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Union County

via LawnByCounty

Union County Lawn Care Challenges

Union County's lawn difficulty score of 60.2 is just slightly above the Pennsylvania average of 59.2. While it remains easier to maintain than the national median, it presents more challenges than northern neighbors. The 6b hardiness zone allows for a slightly longer growing window but brings more summer heat.

High Heat and Moderate Rainfall

You face 18 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly higher than the state average of 11 days. The 3042 growing degree days mean your grass will grow faster and require more frequent mowing than cooler counties. Precipitation remains healthy at 43.9 inches, nearly matching the state average.

Battling Drainage and High Acidity

Your silt loam soil has a very low pH of 5.16, making it one of the more acidic regions in the state. Combined with a 'very poorly drained' classification, your lawn is susceptible to root rot and nutrient lockout. Professional aeration and heavy lime treatments are standard requirements for success here.

Watch for Persistent Dry Spells

With 20 weeks spent in drought over the last year and 100% of the county currently abnormally dry, water management is key. The higher number of heat days increases evaporation, making supplemental watering essential in July and August. Using mulch-clippings can help retain soil moisture during these hot, dry periods.

Spring Seeding Begins in April

Thanks to the 6b zone, you can start seeding as early as April 26. Tall Fescue is highly recommended here because it handles the 18 days of extreme heat better than other cool-season grasses. You have a generous window for growth before the first frost typically occurs on October 20.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Union County's county score?
Union County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 55 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 Union County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Union County ranks #26 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 Union County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Union County is $2,667, with an effective tax rate of 1.20%. This earns Union County a tax score of 25.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Union County?
The median household income in Union County, Pennsylvania is $72,894 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Union County earns an income score of 73.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Union County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Union County scores 55/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #26 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Union 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 Union County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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