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Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#16 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
57
County Score
Health 83.3Schools 80.3Income & Jobs 72.4

County Report Card

About Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania

Westmoreland Outperforms the National Median

With a composite score of 57.0, Westmoreland County sits well above the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in a favorable position for overall quality of life relative to thousands of peers across the country.

A Top Performer in the Keystone State

Westmoreland County outperforms the Pennsylvania state average composite score of 51.8. It maintains a competitive edge by balancing solid infrastructure with regional economic stability.

High Marks for Health and Education

The county excels in health and education, posting impressive scores of 83.3 and 80.3 respectively. Residents benefit from high-quality local schools and robust healthcare access compared to many neighboring counties.

Environmental Risks and Tax Burdens

A low risk score of 12.2 suggests the area faces significant environmental or climate vulnerabilities. Additionally, the tax score of 21.7 reflects an effective property tax rate of 1.281% that may strain some household budgets.

Ideal for Families Seeking Strong Services

Westmoreland is a premier choice for families who prioritize top-tier public schools and excellent health outcomes. While taxes are higher than the national average, the investment pays off through superior community infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax21.7Cost44Safety62.6Health83.3Schools80.3Income72.4Risk12.2Water65Weather60
🏛21.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠44
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼72.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡62.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓80.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡12.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧65
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.2
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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Deep Dives

Westmoreland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Westmoreland County

via TaxByCounty

Westmoreland's taxes run below national average

Westmoreland County's effective tax rate of 1.281% sits comfortably below the national median effective rate, making it more affordable than most U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $2,473 annually—$217 less than the national median of $2,690—despite lower home values working in residents' favor.

Among Pennsylvania's more affordable counties

Westmoreland ranks favorably within Pennsylvania, with an effective tax rate of 1.281% compared to the state average of 1.317%. Residents pay $2,473 in median annual property taxes, slightly below the state median of $2,657.

Cheaper than nearby Wyoming County

Westmoreland County offers a modest tax advantage over its neighbor Wyoming County, which has a 1.344% effective rate and median taxes of $2,763. This 0.063 percentage point difference translates to roughly $290 annually on a typical home in Westmoreland.

What you pay on a typical home

The median home in Westmoreland County is valued at $193,100, which translates to an estimated annual property tax of $2,473. For homeowners with a mortgage, expect to pay around $2,646 annually when other fees are included.

You may be paying too much

Many Westmoreland County homeowners are overassessed and have never appealed their property values. A tax assessment appeal could save you hundreds annually—contact your county assessor's office to learn whether your home's assessed value is fair.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Westmoreland County

via CostByCounty

Westmoreland rents are easier than the nation

At 14.0%, Westmoreland's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national baseline, meaning renters here spend less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The county's median rent of $843 per month is significantly lower than state peers, giving households more breathing room in their budgets compared to the national norm.

A top affordability spot in Pennsylvania

Westmoreland ranks among Pennsylvania's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.0% well below the state average of 16.5%. This advantage makes the county an attractive option for renters seeking lower housing costs without leaving the region.

Westmoreland undercuts neighboring counties

At $843 per month, Westmoreland's median rent trails nearby Wyoming County ($897) and significantly undercuts York County ($1,150), offering renters in the area the most affordable option. Homebuyers here also benefit, with a median home value of $193,100 versus York's $235,000.

Where Westmoreland dollars go

Renters spend an average of $843 monthly on housing while homeowners commit $954 to mortgage costs, against a median household income of $72,468. This means housing—whether rented or owned—consumes roughly 14-16% of typical household income, leaving substantial room for other expenses.

Consider Westmoreland for budget-friendly living

If affordable housing is your priority, Westmoreland delivers: rents 12% below the state average and the lowest home values among our three-county comparison. With household incomes near $72,500 and housing costs staying lean, this county offers genuine financial breathing room for families and individuals planning a move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Westmoreland County

via IncomeByCounty

Westmoreland earns slightly below the nation

Westmoreland County's median household income of $72,468 falls just 3% below the U.S. median of $74,755. While the county ranks in the middle tier nationally, it demonstrates solid earning power comparable to most American communities.

Above average for Pennsylvania

At $72,468, Westmoreland households earn 4% more than Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614. The county ranks in the upper-middle tier among Pennsylvania's 67 counties, reflecting stronger-than-average earning capacity.

More stable than neighboring Wyoming

Westmoreland's $72,468 median income exceeds nearby Wyoming County by $2,200, though it trails York County's $82,238 by nearly $10,000. The county positions itself as a middle-income anchor in the region.

Housing costs are sustainable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 14%, Westmoreland households allocate less than 15% of income to rent—well below the national affordability standard of 30%. The median home value of $193,100 remains accessible relative to household earnings.

Build wealth with solid fundamentals

Westmoreland's sustainable housing costs leave room for savings and investment. Households earning $72,468 annually should prioritize emergency funds, retirement accounts, and long-term wealth strategies to match or exceed regional growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Westmoreland County

via CrimeByCounty

Westmoreland stays well below national averages

Westmoreland's total crime rate of 863.7 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a high safety score of 98.6 out of 100.

Outperforming the Pennsylvania safety average

The county's safety score of 98.6 slightly exceeds the Pennsylvania state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate also beats the statewide average of 932.4 incidents per 100K.

A safer alternative to regional neighbors

Westmoreland reports 863.7 crimes per 100K, making it safer than nearby York County's rate of 1,100.1. Residents experience a lower volume of incidents than many surrounding industrial and urban areas.

Property crime dominates the local landscape

Property crime accounts for 706.8 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 156.9. While violent crime is slightly higher than the state average of 142.2, it is less than half the national rate.

Maintaining safety through smart home security

Even in safe counties, property crime accounts for the vast majority of local law enforcement activity. Installing modern security cameras and motion lighting helps deter theft and preserves the community's high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Westmoreland County

via HealthByCounty

Westmoreland tops national life expectancy

Residents here live to 76.6 years on average, exceeding the U.S. life expectancy of 76.1 years. With 14.3% reporting poor or fair health, Westmoreland performs better than the national average of 16%, suggesting overall health resilience across the county.

A healthier corner of Pennsylvania

Westmoreland edges out Pennsylvania's state life expectancy of 76.4 years and ranks among the state's healthier counties. The county's relatively low poor/fair health rate reflects better-than-average wellness compared to many Pennsylvania peers.

Outpacing surrounding counties

Westmoreland's 76.6-year life expectancy beats neighboring Wyoming County (75.4 years) and matches better performers like York County (77.5 years). The county's 14.3% poor/fair health rate is the lowest among these three, indicating consistent health advantages.

Strong provider access, low uninsured rate

Only 4.7% of residents lack health insurance—well below Pennsylvania's 7.0% average—giving more people direct access to care. The county supports 72 primary care providers and 224 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, ensuring robust healthcare infrastructure.

Already insured? Stay prepared.

While Westmoreland leads on coverage, the remaining uninsured 4.7% deserve support. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Pennsylvania Health Connector to explore affordable insurance options and ensure no one falls through the cracks.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Westmoreland County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Network of 84 Public Schools

Westmoreland County supports 42,184 students through a network of 43 elementary, 20 middle, and 21 high schools. These facilities are organized across 21 school districts, providing a comprehensive educational infrastructure for the region.

Graduation Rates Surpass State and National Averages

The county boasts a strong 93.4% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87% and the state average of 90.3%. This success comes with efficient spending, as the $9,415 per-pupil expenditure is lower than the Pennsylvania average of $10,336.

Hempfield Area Leads as the Largest District

Hempfield Area SD is the county's largest district, serving 5,182 students across nine schools. Charter schools play a very minor role here, representing only 1.2% of the total school landscape with just one active facility.

Suburban Learning with Large Campus Options

The educational environment is primarily suburban, with 67 schools located in residential clusters and an average school size of 502 students. Hempfield Area SHS is the largest individual school in the county, hosting 1,661 students.

Find a Home Near Top-Performing Schools

Families looking for proven academic results should explore the residential areas within the Norwin or Penn-Trafford districts. These communities offer a high-quality education that remains a primary driver for local property values.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Westmoreland County

via RiskByCounty

Westmoreland faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 87.85, Westmoreland County ranks in the relatively moderate category—significantly higher than the national average of around 50. This score reflects exposure to multiple hazards, particularly flooding, which poses an outsized threat to the region.

Among Pennsylvania's most at-risk counties

Westmoreland's score of 87.85 substantially exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it in the upper tier of county risk statewide. The county's flood risk score of 93.77 is particularly concerning relative to peers.

Westmoreland stands out in Southwest PA

Compared to nearby Wyoming County (44.78 composite score), Westmoreland faces nearly double the overall risk. York County to the southeast poses similarly elevated threat levels at 90.43, making both counties regional hotspots for natural disaster preparedness.

Flooding and earthquakes dominate local hazards

Flood risk scores 93.77 for Westmoreland—among the highest in the state—driven by vulnerable watershed infrastructure and aging stormwater systems. Earthquake risk at 73.76 and hurricane risk at 69.00 also warrant preparation, particularly for older building stock in the region.

Get covered against Westmoreland's top threats

Homeowners should prioritize flood insurance immediately, as standard policies exclude flood damage and coverage sells out during seasons of elevated risk. Consider seismic reinforcement for older homes and ensure hurricane preparedness—together, these hazards affect substantial portions of county residents.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Westmoreland County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced temperatures in the Laurel Highlands

Westmoreland County averages 50.5°F annually, falling about 3.5 degrees below the national median. It serves as a transition zone between the warmer Ohio Valley and the cooler Appalachian ridges.

Mirroring the Pennsylvania state average

The county’s 50.5°F average is very close to the Pennsylvania state average of 49.9°F. This makes Westmoreland a representative example of the state's overall climate profile.

Typical precipitation for Western Pennsylvania

With 45.7 inches of annual precipitation, Westmoreland is almost exactly in line with the state average of 45.3 inches. It is slightly cooler than neighboring Washington County, which averages 51.8°F.

Consistent snow and warm July afternoons

Winters bring 29.2 inches of snow and a January average of 28.2°F. July is warm and occasionally humid, averaging 71.4°F with roughly 9 days each year hitting 90°F or higher.

Preparing for four distinct seasons

Residents need a versatile wardrobe and home systems to handle both sub-freezing winters and 90-degree summer spikes. The 29 inches of snow require reliable removal tools, but the totals are manageable compared to the state's northern tier.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Westmoreland County

via SoilByCounty

Westmoreland's acidic silty clay loam

With a pH of 5.29, the county's soil is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but remains near the Pennsylvania average of 5.22. This silty clay loam lacks a recorded taxonomic order in recent surveys but defines the region's heavy, fine-textured earth.

High silt levels define the local mix

The soil consists of 50.1% silt and 16.1% clay, creating a dense structure that holds nutrients effectively. While the 21.9% sand content provides some aeration, the high silt levels require careful management to avoid surface compaction.

Exceptional organic matter fuels growth potential

Westmoreland boasts a staggering 22.28% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 12.14% and far exceeding the national 2.0% baseline. Although the available water capacity of 0.125 in/in is slightly below the state average, the rich nutrient profile supports intense biological activity.

Reliable drainage for local landscapes

The county's soil is classified as well-drained, which helps prevent waterlogging during heavy Pennsylvania rains. While specific hydrologic group data is currently unavailable, this natural drainage class makes the land versatile for both farming and gardening.

Gardening success in Hardiness Zone 6b

Situated in USDA zone 6b, Westmoreland is perfect for cool-weather crops like kale and hardy perennials. The rich organic matter provides an incredible foundation for productivity, so grab your shovel and start a garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Westmoreland County

via LawnByCounty

Above-Average Lawn Ease in Westmoreland

With a lawn difficulty score of 68.2, Westmoreland County is significantly easier to maintain than both the state average of 59.2 and the national median of 50.0. The county sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, providing a stable environment for a variety of cool-season grasses.

Ideal Rainfall Meets Manageable Heat

The county receives 45.7 inches of annual precipitation, which fits perfectly within the ideal range for healthy turf. With only 9 extreme heat days compared to the state average of 11, Westmoreland lawns suffer less mid-summer stress and burning.

Acidic Silty Clay Needs Lime

The local soil is a well-drained silty clay loam, but its pH of 5.29 is quite acidic for turfgrass. Most lawns require lime applications to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 pH range required for optimal nutrient absorption.

Strong Resilience Despite Dry Spells

Westmoreland shows high drought resilience, spending only 5 weeks in drought conditions over the past year. While nearly 40% of the area currently shows abnormal dryness, the well-drained soil structure helps roots stay healthy with minimal supplemental watering.

Prime Planting for Zone 6b

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue are top choices for this climate. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on April 30th to ensure the lawn establishes itself before the first fall frost arrives in mid-October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Westmoreland County's county score?
Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 57 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 Westmoreland County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Westmoreland County ranks #16 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 Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Westmoreland County is $2,473, with an effective tax rate of 1.28%. This earns Westmoreland County a tax score of 21.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Westmoreland County?
The median household income in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania is $72,468 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Westmoreland County earns an income score of 72.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Westmoreland County scores 57/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Westmoreland 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 Westmoreland 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.