Ernest, PA
Population 368 · Pennsylvania
About Ernest, PA
Ernest is a small community located in Pennsylvania with a population of 368 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,750 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ernest features a median home value of $81,000, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ernest one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $929, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 148 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (100 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (38 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ernest shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ernest have an average one-way commute time of 23.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.0% of Ernest 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 1.4% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ernest, PA
Compared to national averages, Ernest has a median household income of $68,750 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $81,000, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $929 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Ernest's income is 6% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 58% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Ernest, PA?
Ernest offers affordable housing with a median home value of $81,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $929/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,750) that falls below the national average. However, Ernest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ernest has a population of 368 with a median age of 37.3 years. Compare Ernest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Ernest
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Side | 367 | $39,125 | $114,700 | Compare |
| Laurelton | 369 | $56,875 | $158,300 | Compare |
| Canadohta Lake | 365 | $62,353 | $156,700 | Compare |
| Enon Valley | 371 | $69,531 | $122,600 | Compare |
| Maitland | 365 | $77,007 | $0 | Compare |
| Revloc | 371 | $38,913 | $144,200 | Compare |
| Stoystown | 365 | $58,750 | $101,000 | Compare |
| Wilcox | 365 | $52,679 | $55,300 | 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 Ernest With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ernest
What is the population of Ernest, PA?
The population of Ernest, PA is 368 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in Ernest?
The median household income in Ernest, PA is $68,750 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ernest?
The median home value in Ernest, PA is $81,000, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ernest?
The median monthly rent in Ernest, PA is $929, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ernest?
The unemployment rate in Ernest, PA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ernest, PA a good place to live?
Ernest offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 368 and a median age of 37.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ernest, PA?
30.0% of residents in Ernest 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 Ernest?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ernest, PA: median home value is $81,000 (67% below national), median rent is $929/month, and median household income is $68,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ernest?
The poverty rate in Ernest, PA is 15.5%, 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 Ernest, PA?
Ernest's population is 1.4% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.