Franklin County Public RecordsPennsylvania

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, PA had a population of 155,932. About 49.5% are male and 50.5% female. The median age is 41.7 years, with 22.0% under 18 and 19.6% aged 65 or older. Racially, the population is 89.7% White, 4.8% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 2.1% two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprise 4.8% of residents.

Franklin County, PA, has over 97,000 registered voters as of 2024, with Republicans comprising about 61%, Democrats 26%, and others 13%. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, with results often favoring Republican candidates; for instance, in 2020, Donald Trump received 71% of the presidential vote. There are 73 polling locations managed by the Franklin County Board of Elections across 22 municipalities. Voter concerns include property taxes and school funding. Elections are administered by a bipartisan board ensuring compliance, transparency, and access, with regular updates on procedures and results on the official county website.

Franklin County, PA, has 10 public high schools and several private schools, serving over 8,000 students. Approximately 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 19% have a bachelor's degree or higher. GreatSchools ratings for area schools average 5/10. School districts such as Chambersburg Area offer diverse educational programs including AP courses and vocational training. Adult education is provided through career centers and HACC–Gettysburg Campus. County schools prioritize safety with security measures and periodic drills, maintaining rates of serious incidents below state averages.

As of 2023, Franklin County, PA, had an unemployment rate of 3.4%. Major industries include manufacturing (22%), healthcare and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (11%). The top occupations are in production, transportation, office support, and healthcare. About 23% of residents work outside the county, primarily commuting to Cumberland or Adams counties, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. Of the employed population, 80% drive alone to work.

Franklin County, PA, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with a median home value of $210,000 in 2023, marking a 5% increase year-over-year. The median gross rent is approximately $990 per month. Housing stock features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, notably in Chambersburg and Waynesboro. Neighborhoods vary from rural farmland to walkable boroughs. Property tax rates average 1.11%, resulting in an annual median property tax of around $2,300. Recent trends show moderate appreciation and steady demand, making Franklin County attractive for both buyers and renters seeking affordability and community living.

Franklin County, PA reported a crime rate below the national average in 2023, with approximately 1,250 total crimes per 100,000 residents. Violent crime was relatively low (about 180 per 100,000), while property crime accounted for the majority (roughly 1,070 per 100,000). Police agencies actively encourage public reporting through online and tip line platforms, which contributed to a 6% decrease in incidents from 2022. The county’s ongoing safety initiatives and community-police cooperation have helped maintain steady declines in crime rates over recent years.