Clay, PA
Population 1,576 · Pennsylvania
About Clay, PA
Clay is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,576 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,094 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.1 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 Clay features a median home value of $265,300, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Clay in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $916, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 783 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (472 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (247 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Clay shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Clay have an average one-way commute time of 28.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.1% of Clay residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.4% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 4.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Clay, PA
Compared to national averages, Clay has a median household income of $82,094 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $265,300, which is 8% above the national median. Monthly rent at $916 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Clay's income is 12% above the state average of $73,376, and home values are 39% above the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Clay, PA?
Clay offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,094, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $916/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average.
Clay has a population of 1,576 with a median age of 54.1 years. Compare Clay with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Clay
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Berlin | 1,575 | $71,528 | $215,700 | Compare |
| Haverford College | 1,575 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Brodheadsville | 1,580 | $118,602 | $264,000 | Compare |
| Avonia | 1,571 | $82,500 | $234,800 | Compare |
| Elkland | 1,571 | $61,731 | $133,000 | Compare |
| Edgeworth | 1,582 | $202,917 | $743,900 | Compare |
| Loganville | 1,582 | $96,905 | $278,600 | Compare |
| Elizabethville | 1,583 | $75,724 | $168,900 | 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 Clay With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Clay
What is the population of Clay, PA?
The population of Clay, PA is 1,576 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 Clay?
The median household income in Clay, PA is $82,094 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Clay?
The median home value in Clay, PA is $265,300, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Clay?
The median monthly rent in Clay, PA is $916, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Clay?
The unemployment rate in Clay, PA is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Clay, PA a good place to live?
Clay offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,576 and a median age of 54.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Clay, PA?
19.1% of residents in Clay 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 Clay?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Clay, PA: median home value is $265,300 (8% above national), median rent is $916/month, and median household income is $82,094. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Clay?
The poverty rate in Clay, PA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Clay, PA?
Clay's population is 1.4% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 4.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.