Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Juniata County, PA, had a population of 24,763. The median age was 41.7 years, and the gender split was approximately 50.1% male and 49.9% female. The county is predominantly White (94.8%), with small percentages of Black or African American (1.2%), Asian (0.3%), and other races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 2.8% of the population.

Elections

Juniata County, PA, had approximately 14,000 registered voters as of 2024, with about 68% Republican, 22% Democrat, and the rest Independent or third-party. The county administers federal, state, and local elections through the Juniata County Board of Elections, with around 15 polling locations including schools and fire halls. In the 2020 presidential election, 79% voted Republican and 19% Democrat. Key issues include agriculture, taxes, and rural infrastructure. Voter turnout averages 65% in general elections. Election administration emphasizes integrity, with results posted promptly online and support for in-person and absentee voting.

Education, Employment and Housing

Juniata County, PA, has one public high school—Juniata High School—and one consolidated junior-senior high (East Juniata), serving roughly 1,800 K-12 students across four district schools. Around 13.1% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census, 2022). The district's average graduation rate is about 91%, and standardized test scores are near state averages. Juniata schools offer vocational-technical programs and dual enrollment options; adult education is available via local career centers. School safety reports are above state average, with strong anti-bullying initiatives and resource officer presence.

As of 2022, Juniata County, PA, had an employment rate of approximately 58.9%. Major industries include manufacturing (19.4% of jobs), health care and social assistance (13.6%), and retail trade (11.3%). The most common occupation types are production, transportation, and material moving (20.8%), followed by sales and office occupations (19.1%). About 75% of workers commute outside the county for employment, primarily to Mifflin and Dauphin counties, with an average commute time of 29 minutes.

Juniata County, PA has a homeownership rate of approximately 77%, with a median home value around $180,000 and median gross rent near $900 (2022 ACS). The county features primarily single-family homes, with some mobile homes and a few multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Mifflintown and Port Royal. Property values have risen modestly, with a 5% annual increase in recent years. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $1,700 per year. The rental market is limited, favoring owner-occupiers, and overall housing remains affordable compared to Pennsylvania averages.

County Crime & Safety

Juniata County, PA, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 5.2 violent crimes and 13.6 property crimes per 1,000 residents, notably below Pennsylvania’s state averages. Local law enforcement ensures public safety through regular patrolling and community programs. Most incidents involve minor theft or vandalism, with serious offenses being rare. Crime reports are compiled by the Pennsylvania State Police and accessible through the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system, supporting transparency for residents concerned about safety and crime trends.