York, PA
Population 44,830 · Pennsylvania
About York, PA
York is a mid-sized city located in Pennsylvania with a population of 44,830 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,115 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in York features a median home value of $103,100, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. This makes York one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $958, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 19,307 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (7,822 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (10,029 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 York shows an unemployment rate of 11.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in York have an average one-way commute time of 23.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.1% of York 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 3.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 19.6% Black or African American, and 12.2% Asian residents, with 12.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How York Ranks in Pennsylvania
Cost of Living in York, PA
Compared to national averages, York has a median household income of $47,115 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $103,100, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $958 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, York's income is 36% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 46% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in York, PA?
York offers affordable housing with a median home value of $103,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $958/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,115) that falls below the national average. However, York’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
York has a population of 44,830 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare York with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near York
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilkes-Barre | 44,217 | $47,970 | $108,000 | Compare |
| Altoona | 43,508 | $50,171 | $113,600 | Compare |
| State College | 40,669 | $47,132 | $414,400 | Compare |
| Harrisburg | 50,092 | $47,783 | $121,000 | Compare |
| Levittown | 50,930 | $101,619 | $311,000 | Compare |
| Norristown | 35,782 | $65,058 | $205,100 | Compare |
| Chester | 33,209 | $39,809 | $85,400 | Compare |
| Bethel Park | 33,070 | $104,129 | $258,700 | 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 York With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about York
What is the population of York, PA?
The population of York, PA is 44,830 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 York?
The median household income in York, PA is $47,115 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in York?
The median home value in York, PA is $103,100, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in York?
The median monthly rent in York, PA is $958, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in York?
The unemployment rate in York, PA is 11.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is York, PA a good place to live?
York offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 44,830 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is York, PA?
17.1% of residents in York 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 York?
Key cost-of-living indicators for York, PA: median home value is $103,100 (58% below national), median rent is $958/month, and median household income is $47,115. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in York?
The poverty rate in York, PA is 22.7%, 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 York, PA?
York's population is 3.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 19.6% Black or African American, 12.2% Asian, and 23.3% two or more races. 12.2% of residents are foreign-born.