Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Cameron County, PA, had a population of 4,547. About 51% were male and 49% female. The median age was 50.6 years, with 23% aged 65 or older and 16% under 18. The racial makeup is predominantly White (96.4%), with small representations of Black or African American (0.7%), Native American (0.3%), Asian (0.5%), and Hispanic or Latino (1.4%).

Elections

Cameron County, PA, has about 3,000 registered voters, with Republicans holding a majority, followed by Democrats and a small percentage of Independents and third parties. Elections include primaries, generals, and local contests, with 4 polling locations such as the Emporium Fire Hall. Recent general elections show Republicans winning countywide offices by margins of 60% or more. Local issues include economic development and infrastructure. The County Board of Elections oversees administration. In 2023, voter turnout was approximately 50%. Two main parties dominate, though minor parties occasionally field candidates.

Education, Employment and Housing

Cameron County, PA, has one public school district—Cameron County School District—which serves roughly 600 students across its elementary and junior/senior high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%. Only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the state average. School safety scores are solid, with minimal incidents reported annually. Educational programs include STEM and vocational training, with a teacher-student ratio of 1:12. Adult education options are limited locally, but nearby community colleges offer additional resources. Overall, schools in Cameron County score around 5/10 on statewide educational performance benchmarks.

As of 2022, Cameron County, PA has an employment rate of approximately 52.5%. The leading industries are manufacturing (22%), health care/social assistance (19%), and retail trade (12%). Most residents work in production (19%), office/administrative support (14%), and sales-related roles (10%). Roughly 67% of employees commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 19.3 minutes. Nearly 77% of workers are employed within Cameron County itself, while the remainder commute to neighboring counties such as Elk and McKean.

Cameron County, PA, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $74,000 (2022). Median gross rent is roughly $600 per month. The county’s housing stock is mostly single-family homes, with some seasonal cabins. Property values have remained stable, showing modest appreciation over the past five years. Neighborhoods like Emporium feature historic homes and close-knit communities. Property taxes are relatively low, with an average annual bill near $1,300. Rental options are limited but affordable, reflecting rural market conditions. This stability and affordability make Cameron County appealing for first-time buyers and retirees alike.

County Crime & Safety

Cameron County, PA, is one of the safest counties in Pennsylvania, with a crime rate significantly below the national average. According to recent FBI data, the county reported just 2 violent crimes and 24 property crimes in 2022, equating to approximately 3.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement maintains active crime reporting and community outreach, contributing to a strong sense of safety. Compared to the state average of 18.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, Cameron County’s low crime statistics make it one of Pennsylvania’s most secure rural areas.