Mercer, PA
Population 1,847 · Pennsylvania
About Mercer, PA
Mercer is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,847 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,865 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Mercer features a median home value of $130,300, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Mercer one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $644, 45% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 932 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (461 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (391 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mercer shows an unemployment rate of 7.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Mercer have an average one-way commute time of 25 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.4% of Mercer 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mercer, PA
Compared to national averages, Mercer has a median household income of $44,865 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $130,300, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $644 is 45% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Mercer's income is 39% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 32% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Mercer, PA?
Mercer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $130,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $644/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,865) that falls below the national average. However, Mercer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Mercer has a population of 1,847 with a median age of 39.5 years. Compare Mercer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Mercer
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Connellsville | 1,848 | $49,821 | $98,000 | Compare |
| Watsontown | 1,845 | $53,355 | $161,200 | Compare |
| South Coatesville | 1,843 | $72,976 | $253,900 | Compare |
| Belleville | 1,860 | $64,179 | $154,300 | Compare |
| Stewartstown | 1,863 | $69,583 | $250,400 | Compare |
| Lykens | 1,830 | $69,125 | $101,300 | Compare |
| Old Orchard | 1,829 | $108,634 | $347,300 | Compare |
| Reynolds Heights | 1,865 | $52,233 | $109,600 | 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 Mercer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mercer
What is the population of Mercer, PA?
The population of Mercer, PA is 1,847 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 Mercer?
The median household income in Mercer, PA is $44,865 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mercer?
The median home value in Mercer, PA is $130,300, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mercer?
The median monthly rent in Mercer, PA is $644, which is 45% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mercer?
The unemployment rate in Mercer, PA is 7.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Mercer, PA a good place to live?
Mercer offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,847 and a median age of 39.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Mercer, PA?
19.4% of residents in Mercer 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 Mercer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mercer, PA: median home value is $130,300 (47% below national), median rent is $644/month, and median household income is $44,865. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mercer?
The poverty rate in Mercer, PA is 15.3%, 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 Mercer, PA?
Mercer's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.