McKeesport, PA
Population 17,520 · Pennsylvania
About McKeesport, PA
McKeesport is a mid-sized city located in Pennsylvania with a population of 17,520 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $31,854 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in McKeesport features a median home value of $69,800, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes McKeesport one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $786, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,638 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (3,866 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (4,042 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 McKeesport shows an unemployment rate of 10.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 32.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in McKeesport have an average one-way commute time of 27.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.3% of McKeesport 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 0.7% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How McKeesport Ranks in Pennsylvania
Cost of Living in McKeesport, PA
Compared to national averages, McKeesport has a median household income of $31,854 (58% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $69,800, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $786 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, McKeesport's income is 57% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 63% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in McKeesport, PA?
McKeesport offers affordable housing with a median home value of $69,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $786/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($31,854) that falls below the national average. However, McKeesport’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McKeesport has a population of 17,520 with a median age of 40.5 years. Compare McKeesport with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near McKeesport
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colonial Park | 18,125 | $69,804 | $223,800 | Compare |
| Johnstown | 18,245 | $34,784 | $42,100 | Compare |
| Fullerton | 16,729 | $63,357 | $229,900 | Compare |
| Hanover | 16,483 | $64,135 | $200,900 | Compare |
| Lansdale | 18,865 | $86,460 | $319,000 | Compare |
| Hermitage | 16,132 | $72,464 | $187,600 | Compare |
| Phoenixville | 19,062 | $94,411 | $348,200 | Compare |
| Horsham | 15,866 | $99,121 | $363,100 | 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 McKeesport With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McKeesport
What is the population of McKeesport, PA?
The population of McKeesport, PA is 17,520 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in McKeesport?
The median household income in McKeesport, PA is $31,854 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McKeesport?
The median home value in McKeesport, PA is $69,800, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in McKeesport?
The median monthly rent in McKeesport, PA is $786, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McKeesport?
The unemployment rate in McKeesport, PA is 10.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McKeesport, PA a good place to live?
McKeesport offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 17,520 and a median age of 40.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is McKeesport, PA?
12.3% of residents in McKeesport 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 McKeesport?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McKeesport, PA: median home value is $69,800 (71% below national), median rent is $786/month, and median household income is $31,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McKeesport?
The poverty rate in McKeesport, PA is 32.9%, 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 McKeesport, PA?
McKeesport's population is 0.7% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 38.1% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.