Swarthmore, PA
Population 6,524 · Pennsylvania
About Swarthmore, PA
Swarthmore is a small community in Pennsylvania with a population of 6,524 residents. The median household income is $146,992 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Swarthmore is 34.4 years.
Housing in Swarthmore has a median home value of $557,900 and median monthly rent of $1,493. Of the 2,243 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,593 owner-occupied and 544 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Swarthmore is 8.2% and the poverty rate is 2.8%. 79.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.4 minutes.
How Swarthmore Ranks in Pennsylvania
Cost of Living in Swarthmore, PA
Compared to national averages, Swarthmore has a median household income of $146,992 (96% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $557,900, which is 128% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,493 is 28% above the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, Swarthmore's income is 100% above the state average of $73,376, and home values are 192% above the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in Swarthmore, PA?
Swarthmore offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $146,992, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 79.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 2.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $557,900. However, Swarthmore’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Swarthmore has a population of 6,524 with a median age of 34.4 years. Compare Swarthmore with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near Swarthmore
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Lion | 6,494 | $63,672 | $172,000 | Compare |
| Catasauqua | 6,491 | $74,363 | $201,600 | Compare |
| Milton | 6,582 | $53,552 | $172,100 | Compare |
| West View | 6,582 | $70,954 | $209,800 | Compare |
| Blue Bell | 6,450 | $159,963 | $581,500 | Compare |
| Prospect Park | 6,402 | $65,774 | $239,700 | Compare |
| Homeacre-Lyndora | 6,647 | $71,232 | $190,800 | Compare |
| Blakely | 6,661 | $59,858 | $183,600 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Swarthmore
What is the population of Swarthmore, PA?
The population of Swarthmore, PA is 6,524 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Swarthmore?
The median household income in Swarthmore, PA is $146,992 per year.
What is the median home value in Swarthmore?
The median home value in Swarthmore, PA is $557,900.
What is the average rent in Swarthmore?
The median monthly rent in Swarthmore, PA is $1,493.
What is the unemployment rate in Swarthmore?
The unemployment rate in Swarthmore, PA is 8.2%.