Demographics
As of 2023, McKean County, PA has a population of approximately 40,400. The median age is about 44.5 years, with 19% under 18 and 21% aged 65 or older. The gender split is nearly even, with 50.3% male and 49.7% female. Racially, the county is 93.7% White, 3.5% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 1.4% Hispanic or Latino (any race).
Elections
McKean County, PA, had approximately 25,000 registered voters in 2024, with around 60% Republican, 30% Democrat, and 10% other/independent. The county administers primary and general elections, with the 2022 general election reporting a 57% voter turnout. Republican candidates have historically dominated, with 70% of votes in recent cycles. There are 34 polling locations across the county. Key local issues include jobs and public health. Elections are managed by the McKean County Bureau of Elections, ensuring compliance with state regulations and ballot security.
Education, Employment and Housing
McKean County, PA, has 11 public schools, including 3 high schools. The high school graduation rate stands at around 91%, while only about 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly below the state average. School safety initiatives are in place, with low reported incidents per state records. Educational programs include advanced placement and vocational-technical offerings. Adult education is supported through community centers and regional colleges, such as the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, providing continuing education and workforce development programs.
As of 2023, McKean County, PA, had an employment rate of approximately 54.3%. Major industries include manufacturing (20%), health care and social assistance (19%), and retail trade (13%). The leading occupation types are production (16%), sales/office (15%), and management/business/financial (12%). About 76% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes; most are employed locally, though 17% travel to surrounding counties such as Elk and Potter for work.
Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, McKean County has a homeownership rate of around 74%, with median home values near $89,000 (2022). Median gross rent stands at approximately $660 per month. The housing market features mainly single-family homes, with some duplexes and apartments, reflecting the county’s rural character. Property values have remained relatively stable over the past five years. Notable neighborhoods include Bradford, Smethport, and Kane. Property tax rates average about 1.5% of assessed value, providing affordable options compared to national averages.
County Crime & Safety
McKean County, PA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported approximately 180 total crimes in 2022, with 35 classified as violent offenses (including 1 homicide, 6 robberies, and 28 aggravated assaults) and 145 property crimes (primarily theft and burglary). The average crime rate stands around 12.5 per 1,000 residents, significantly below the Pennsylvania state average of 19.2. Local law enforcement encourages prompt reporting, contributing to a 93% crime clearance rate, making McKean County generally safe for residents and visitors.
Other Counties in Pennsylvania
- Adams
- Allegheny
- Armstrong
- Beaver
- Bedford
- Berks
- Blair
- Bradford
- Bucks
- Butler
- Cambria
- Cameron
- Carbon
- Centre
- Chester
- Clarion
- Clearfield
- Clinton
- Columbia
- Crawford
- Cumberland
- Dauphin
- Delaware
- Elk
- Erie
- Fayette
- Forest
- Franklin
- Fulton
- Greene
- Huntingdon
- Indiana
- Jefferson
- Juniata
- Lackawanna
- Lancaster
- Lawrence
- Lebanon
- Lehigh
- Luzerne
- Lycoming
- Mercer
- Mifflin
- Monroe
- Montgomery
- Montour
- Northampton
- Northumberland
- Perry
- Philadelphia