Steelton, PA
Population 6,267 · Pennsylvania
About Steelton, PA
Steelton is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 6,267 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,963 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Steelton features a median home value of $124,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Steelton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,270, 9% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,673 total housing units, 47% are owner-occupied (1,189 units) and 53% are renter-occupied (1,350 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 Steelton shows an unemployment rate of 8.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Steelton have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.7% of Steelton 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 2.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 13.7% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Steelton, PA
Compared to national averages, Steelton has a median household income of $55,963 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,200, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,270 is 9% above the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Steelton's income is 24% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 35% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Steelton, PA?
Steelton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,200, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,963) that falls below the national average. However, Steelton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Steelton has a population of 6,267 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Steelton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Steelton
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taylor | 6,261 | $60,446 | $169,800 | Compare |
| Penn Wynne | 6,220 | $156,056 | $532,200 | Compare |
| South Williamsport | 6,216 | $66,810 | $186,000 | Compare |
| Forest Hills | 6,332 | $86,802 | $182,200 | Compare |
| Exton | 6,192 | $121,189 | $549,400 | Compare |
| Corry | 6,162 | $45,081 | $99,800 | Compare |
| Churchville | 6,139 | $188,146 | $607,700 | Compare |
| Prospect Park | 6,402 | $65,774 | $239,700 | 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 Steelton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Steelton
What is the population of Steelton, PA?
The population of Steelton, PA is 6,267 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 Steelton?
The median household income in Steelton, PA is $55,963 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Steelton?
The median home value in Steelton, PA is $124,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Steelton?
The median monthly rent in Steelton, PA is $1,270, which is 9% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Steelton?
The unemployment rate in Steelton, PA is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Steelton, PA a good place to live?
Steelton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,267 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Steelton, PA?
15.7% of residents in Steelton 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 Steelton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Steelton, PA: median home value is $124,200 (49% below national), median rent is $1,270/month, and median household income is $55,963. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Steelton?
The poverty rate in Steelton, PA is 22.3%, 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 Steelton, PA?
Steelton's population is 2.1% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 13.7% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 35.1% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.