Athens, PA
Population 3,260 · Pennsylvania
About Athens, PA
Athens is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 3,260 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,588 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Athens features a median home value of $166,800, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Athens in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $834, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,840 total housing units, 43% are owner-occupied (761 units) and 57% are renter-occupied (1,029 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Athens shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 15.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Athens have an average one-way commute time of 20 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.8% of Athens residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Athens, PA
Compared to national averages, Athens has a median household income of $49,588 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $166,800, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $834 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Athens's income is 32% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 13% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Athens, PA?
Athens offers affordable housing with a median home value of $166,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $834/month, and short commute times averaging just 20 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,588) that falls below the national average. However, Athens’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Athens has a population of 3,260 with a median age of 48 years. Compare Athens with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Athens
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penbrook | 3,260 | $68,295 | $140,000 | Compare |
| West Wyomissing | 3,263 | $75,944 | $180,500 | Compare |
| Pottsgrove | 3,267 | $124,605 | $296,300 | Compare |
| Newmanstown | 3,270 | $89,023 | $239,000 | Compare |
| Macungie | 3,247 | $74,056 | $293,900 | Compare |
| Trafford | 3,247 | $62,874 | $143,200 | Compare |
| Southpointe | 3,277 | $112,722 | $546,700 | Compare |
| Centerville borough (Washington County), Pennsylvania | 3,240 | $78,446 | $123,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Pennsylvania
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Athens With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Athens
What is the population of Athens, PA?
The population of Athens, PA is 3,260 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in Athens?
The median household income in Athens, PA is $49,588 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Athens?
The median home value in Athens, PA is $166,800, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Athens?
The median monthly rent in Athens, PA is $834, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Athens?
The unemployment rate in Athens, PA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Athens, PA a good place to live?
Athens offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,260 and a median age of 48, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Athens, PA?
26.8% of residents in Athens aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Athens?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Athens, PA: median home value is $166,800 (32% below national), median rent is $834/month, and median household income is $49,588. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Athens?
The poverty rate in Athens, PA is 15.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Athens, PA?
Athens's population is 0.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.