Emerald Lakes, PA
Population 2,839 · Pennsylvania
About Emerald Lakes, PA
Emerald Lakes is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 2,839 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $101,688 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.3 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 Emerald Lakes features a median home value of $259,900, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Emerald Lakes in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,016, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,625 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (944 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (170 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Emerald Lakes shows an unemployment rate of 10.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 4.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Emerald Lakes have an average one-way commute time of 33.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.0% of Emerald Lakes 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 1.3% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 25.8% Black or African American, and 4.1% Asian residents, with 11.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Emerald Lakes, PA
Compared to national averages, Emerald Lakes has a median household income of $101,688 (35% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $259,900, which is 6% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,016 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Emerald Lakes's income is 39% above the state average of $73,376, and home values are 36% above the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Emerald Lakes, PA?
Emerald Lakes offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $101,688, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,016/month, and a low poverty rate of 4.1%, better than the national average.
Emerald Lakes has a population of 2,839 with a median age of 42.3 years. Compare Emerald Lakes with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Emerald Lakes
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lima | 2,834 | $76,953 | $372,300 | Compare |
| Ford City | 2,833 | $56,451 | $78,600 | Compare |
| Quarryville | 2,846 | $76,628 | $244,900 | Compare |
| Bath | 2,829 | $73,681 | $228,500 | Compare |
| Bedford | 2,851 | $50,570 | $182,300 | Compare |
| Marietta | 2,827 | $56,204 | $206,700 | Compare |
| New Britain | 2,822 | $123,819 | $388,100 | Compare |
| Aspinwall | 2,866 | $119,875 | $377,300 | 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 Emerald Lakes With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Emerald Lakes
What is the population of Emerald Lakes, PA?
The population of Emerald Lakes, PA is 2,839 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 Emerald Lakes?
The median household income in Emerald Lakes, PA is $101,688 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Emerald Lakes?
The median home value in Emerald Lakes, PA is $259,900, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Emerald Lakes?
The median monthly rent in Emerald Lakes, PA is $1,016, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Emerald Lakes?
The unemployment rate in Emerald Lakes, PA is 10.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Emerald Lakes, PA a good place to live?
Emerald Lakes offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,839 and a median age of 42.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Emerald Lakes, PA?
12.0% of residents in Emerald Lakes 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 Emerald Lakes?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Emerald Lakes, PA: median home value is $259,900 (6% above national), median rent is $1,016/month, and median household income is $101,688. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Emerald Lakes?
The poverty rate in Emerald Lakes, PA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Emerald Lakes, PA?
Emerald Lakes's population is 1.3% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 25.8% Black or African American, 4.1% Asian, and 7.1% two or more races. 11.6% of residents are foreign-born.