Demographics

As of 2022, Bradford County, PA, had a population of approximately 59,500. The median age is about 44 years. About 49.5% of residents are male and 50.5% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (94.7%), with smaller portions identifying as Two or More Races (2.4%), Hispanic or Latino (1.4%), Black or African American (0.8%), Asian (0.4%), and other groups. The county’s population is relatively older and less diverse compared to state and national averages.

Elections

As of 2024, Bradford County, PA has approximately 36,000 registered voters: about 58% Republican, 30% Democrat, and 12% other affiliations. The county oversees primary and general elections, with over 40 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential race, Donald Trump secured 71% of the county's votes. The Bradford County Board of Elections manages administration, facing ongoing issues like improving voter access and election security. Both major parties actively campaign, while smaller parties and independent voters also influence local decisions, especially in school board and commissioner races.

Education, Employment and Housing

Bradford County, PA, hosts 8 public high schools and several elementary/middle schools within 8 districts, serving over 6,000 students. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 17% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools average a 6/10 rating on GreatSchools.org. Educational programs include AP, dual enrollment, and vocational training. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying policies, with reported incidents below state averages. Adult education is supported by Northern Tier Career Center’s GED and workforce training programs.

Bradford County, PA, had an unemployment rate of approximately 4.1% as of early 2024. Key industries include health care and social assistance (employing about 15%), manufacturing (13%), retail trade (12%), and educational services (10%). Major occupation types are production, office and administrative support, and sales. About 85% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes; over 60% work within the county, while others travel to nearby counties, especially Tioga and Susquehanna. Overall, Bradford County’s workforce is primarily engaged in local and regional employment sectors.

Bradford County, PA, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with a median home value near $148,000 and median monthly rent around $780. Housing consists predominantly of single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Neighborhoods like Towanda and Sayre offer more amenities and rental options. Property values have risen modestly, around 4% year-over-year. Property taxes average 1.6% of assessed value, with a median annual bill of roughly $2,250. The market remains affordable compared to state averages, appealing to families and retirees.

County Crime & Safety

Bradford County, PA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was about 1.2 per 1,000 residents, while property crime was recorded at 7.5 per 1,000 residents—both below Pennsylvania’s averages. The Bradford County Sheriff's Office actively reports incidents and collaborates with local communities for enhanced safety. Recent data shows a slight decline in burglary and larceny cases, while drug-related arrests remain a concern. Overall, Bradford County is considered a safe area, with ongoing efforts to reduce crime and increase public awareness and reporting.