Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Westmoreland County, PA, had a population of approximately 354,663. The median age is 47.3 years, with 21.6% aged 65 or older. Females comprise 51.4% of the population, and males 48.6%. Racially, the county is 92.8% White, 3.6% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 1.2% Hispanic or Latino. The county’s demographics reflect an aging, predominantly White community with modest racial diversity.

Elections

Westmoreland County, PA, has approximately 242,000 registered voters as of 2024, with registration split among Republican (about 55%), Democratic (around 38%), and other parties. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, managed by the Westmoreland County Election Bureau. In the 2022 general election, turnout was around 52%. There are over 300 polling locations countywide. Recent issues include mail-in ballot processing and redistricting concerns. The county's Board of Elections oversees procedures and compliance. Historically, Republicans have won most local and state races, reflecting shifting voter demographics and party alignment in recent decades.

Education, Employment and Housing

Westmoreland County, PA, hosts over 15 public high schools, 5 colleges, and universities, with approximately 31% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s public schools have an average graduation rate of 93% and a GreatSchools rating average of 6/10. Adult education is supported by institutions like Westmoreland County Community College. School safety programs are prioritized, and many schools offer diverse educational programs, including STEM and vocational training. Initiatives for continuous improvement and community engagement are prominent, fostering a supportive educational environment.

As of 2022, Westmoreland County, PA, had an unemployment rate around 4.2%. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (16%), manufacturing (13%), and retail trade (11%). The leading occupation types are office/administrative support (13%) and sales (9%). About 82% of residents commute alone by car, with a mean travel time of 27 minutes; key employment destinations include Pittsburgh and Greensburg. Roughly 45% of workers are employed outside the county, reflecting significant outbound commuting patterns.

Westmoreland County, PA has a homeownership rate of around 75%, with median home values at approximately $185,000 as of 2024. The average rent is about $1,050 per month. The market has seen a 4% annual increase in property values. Housing types range from historic single-family homes to modern townhouses and apartments, especially in areas like Greensburg, Murrysville, and Latrobe. Property tax rates average 1.3%, and neighborhoods offer diverse amenities and settings, from suburban developments to rural communities.

County Crime & Safety

Westmoreland County, PA, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with 2023 data reporting approximately 1,150 property crimes and 150 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. The local sheriff’s office and police departments maintain active crime reporting and community outreach. The county’s clearance rate for major crimes stands at about 60%, higher than the national average of 45%. Residents generally consider Westmoreland a safe place to live, with neighborhood watch initiatives contributing to public safety and prompt crime reporting.