Old Forge, PA
Population 8,533 · Pennsylvania
About Old Forge, PA
Old Forge is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 8,533 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,258 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.2 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 Old Forge features a median home value of $169,700, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Old Forge in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $862, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,949 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (2,669 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (1,081 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Old Forge shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Old Forge have an average one-way commute time of 22.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.2% of Old Forge 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 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 1.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Old Forge, PA
Compared to national averages, Old Forge has a median household income of $73,258 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $169,700, which is 31% below the national median. Monthly rent at $862 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Old Forge's income is 0% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 11% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Old Forge, PA?
Old Forge offers affordable housing with a median home value of $169,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $862/month, and a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,258) that falls below the national average. However, Old Forge’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Old Forge has a population of 8,533 with a median age of 47.2 years. Compare Old Forge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Old Forge
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lewistown | 8,505 | $40,179 | $98,600 | Compare |
| Swissvale | 8,499 | $60,114 | $141,300 | Compare |
| Villanova | 8,431 | $250,001 | $945,600 | Compare |
| Pleasant Hills | 8,418 | $97,177 | $235,500 | Compare |
| Lock Haven | 8,386 | $40,131 | $127,500 | Compare |
| Millersville | 8,711 | $65,721 | $265,500 | Compare |
| Parkville | 8,354 | $74,509 | $207,100 | Compare |
| Jeannette | 8,719 | $49,558 | $106,600 | 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 Old Forge With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Old Forge
What is the population of Old Forge, PA?
The population of Old Forge, PA is 8,533 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 Old Forge?
The median household income in Old Forge, PA is $73,258 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Old Forge?
The median home value in Old Forge, PA is $169,700, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Old Forge?
The median monthly rent in Old Forge, PA is $862, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Old Forge?
The unemployment rate in Old Forge, PA is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Old Forge, PA a good place to live?
Old Forge offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,533 and a median age of 47.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Old Forge, PA?
32.2% of residents in Old Forge 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 Old Forge?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Old Forge, PA: median home value is $169,700 (31% below national), median rent is $862/month, and median household income is $73,258. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Old Forge?
The poverty rate in Old Forge, 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 Old Forge, PA?
Old Forge's population is 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 1.8% of residents are foreign-born.