Find local businesses in Adams County, PA.
Browse 4+ businesses across 2 communities in Adams County. Find reviews, hours, contact info, and discover local services, restaurants, and shops.
Browse by City
Featured businesses in Adams County
Be the first featured business in Adams County!
Get FeaturedOwn a business in Adams County?
Get your business found by local customers across Adams County. List your business for free and start connecting with customers in your community.
- Local Businesses
- 4+
- Communities
- 2
- Cost to list
- Free
- Support local
- ✓ Yes!
Discover Things to Do in Adams County
Explore top restaurants, attractions, entertainment, and outdoor activities
Browse Adams County Businesses by City
Explore businesses in Adams County's cities and towns
Browse Adams County Businesses by Category
Find businesses by type across Adams County
About Adams County
Where History Shapes Tomorrow
Adams County stands at the southern gateway of Pennsylvania, where the Battle of Gettysburg forever changed American history and where today's 104,000 residents build futures among rolling orchards and historic Main Streets. This is where 2,800 businesses thrive in the shadow of battlefield monuments - where apple orchards stretch to the horizon and downtown Gettysburg welcomes 3 million annual visitors seeking both history and hospitality.
A Living Business Legacy
Gettysburg, our county seat, masterfully balances preservation with progress. Beyond the battlefield, the borough's 800 businesses range from family-owned shops that have served locals for generations to innovative tourism enterprises and professional services. The town's historic downtown district pulses with restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, while modern healthcare facilities and educational institutions provide stable employment for thousands.
Venture beyond Gettysburg and discover the Route 30 corridor through New Oxford and Littlestown, offering small-town charm with modern amenities. Head north into the fruit belt around Biglerville and Arendtsville, where agriculture drives innovation. The Route 15 corridor provides direct access to Maryland markets, while rural townships maintain the authentic Pennsylvania character that makes Adams County special.
Why Businesses Choose Adams County
Location creates opportunity: Adams County sits just 40 miles from Harrisburg, 55 miles from Baltimore, and 80 miles from Washington D.C., without the congestion and costs. Commercial properties cost 40-60% less than metro areas. Our workforce of 52,000 combines agricultural expertise, manufacturing skills, and service sector experience, supported by Gettysburg College and HACC's Gettysburg campus.
The economics work: tourism generates $700 million annually, creating year-round opportunities. Agriculture contributes another $180 million, with fruit processing and agritourism booming. Manufacturing remains strong with major employers like Knouse Foods and Schindler Elevator. Healthcare and education provide recession-resistant stability.
Life in Adams County
This is authentic America - where Civil War history lives alongside vibrant Latino communities, where Amish buggies share roads with tour buses, where you can pick your own apples in the morning and attend a college lecture in the evening. The county's 340 square miles encompass battlefield ridges, productive farmland, and charming small towns.
For families, Adams County delivers excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and housing you can actually afford. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Michaux State Forest, Caledonia State Park, and miles of historic trails. Cultural offerings range from the Majestic Theater's Broadway shows to local wineries and craft breweries sprouting among the orchards.
Your Mid-Atlantic Advantage
Strategic location defines Adams County's business advantage. Baltimore-Washington International Airport is just 75 minutes away. Philadelphia sits 120 miles east. Pittsburgh is 180 miles west. This positioning allows businesses to serve Mid-Atlantic and Northeast markets efficiently.
Transportation infrastructure supports commerce: Route 15 provides north-south connectivity to I-70 and I-80, Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) crosses east-west, Route 116 connects to Maryland, and Route 194 links rural communities to commercial centers.
Discover Adams County Businesses
Whether you're searching for local services, exploring agritourism destinations, finding healthcare providers, or investigating business opportunities, our directory connects you with Adams County's diverse business community. From Gettysburg's historic downtown to rural farm markets, from major manufacturers to boutique shops, discover what makes Adams County an exceptional place to do business.
Adams County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
105,183
Median Age
43.8 years
Population Density
2 communities
Adams County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$81,071
Poverty Rate
8.4%
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
Adams County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$256,100
Median Rent
$1,084/mo
Owner Occupied
79%
Adams County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Adams County
What is the population of Adams County?
As of 2023, Adams County has a population of approximately 104,200 residents, making it the 30th most populous county in Pennsylvania. The population has grown 7.2% since 2010, with growth concentrated along the Route 15 and Route 30 corridors.
What are the major cities and towns in Adams County?
The largest municipality is Gettysburg (county seat) with 7,700 residents, followed by Hanover (partially in York County), New Oxford, Littlestown, and Biglerville. The county comprises 34 municipalities with 2,800 businesses serving both residents and 3 million annual tourists.
How do I start a business in Adams County?
Starting a business requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your municipality. Gettysburg requires a business privilege license. The Adams County Economic Development Corporation and SCORE Gettysburg provide free counseling and resources for new businesses.
What are the major employers in Adams County?
Major employers include WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital (1,800+ employees), Knouse Foods Cooperative (1,200+ employees), Gettysburg College (700+ employees), Schindler Elevator Corporation, HACC Gettysburg Campus, and the National Park Service. The county's 2,800 businesses employ across tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors.
What is the average commercial rent in Adams County?
Commercial rental rates vary by location: downtown Gettysburg retail space averages $15-25/sq ft, Route 30 corridor office space runs $10-18/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $5-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Baltimore-Washington metro areas, attracting businesses seeking affordable expansion.
What business incentives are available in Adams County?
Adams County offers LERTA tax abatements, Keystone Opportunity Zone benefits, PA DCED grants, and workforce development programs through PA CareerLink. The Adams Economic Alliance connects businesses to state and local incentive programs, including special tourism and agriculture sector support.
How far is Adams County from major cities?
Gettysburg is strategically located 40 miles from Harrisburg (45 minutes), 55 miles from Baltimore (1 hour), 80 miles from Washington D.C. (1.5 hours), and 120 miles from Philadelphia (2 hours). This provides access to 25+ million consumers within a 2-hour drive.
What highways run through Adams County?
Major highways include US Route 15 (north-south connecting to I-70 and I-80), US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway running east-west), Route 116 (connecting to Maryland), and Route 194 (serving rural communities). These provide excellent access for the county's 280 transportation and logistics businesses.
What is the workforce like in Adams County?
Adams County has a labor force of approximately 52,000 workers with strong agricultural and manufacturing skills. The median age is 42.3 years, providing experienced workers. Gettysburg College, HACC, and proximity to Shippensburg University support workforce development for diverse business needs.
What languages are spoken in Adams County?
While English predominates, approximately 12% of residents speak Spanish at home, particularly in the fruit belt region where migrant agricultural workers have established communities. Pennsylvania Dutch is spoken in Plain communities. Many businesses, especially in agriculture and hospitality, offer bilingual services.
Is Adams County good for tourism businesses?
Yes, tourism is Adams County's largest industry, generating $700+ million annually from 3 million visitors to Gettysburg National Military Park and related attractions. The county has 450+ tourism-related businesses including hotels, restaurants, tour companies, and retail shops, with consistent year-round visitor traffic.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Adams County?
Adams County ranks #1 in Pennsylvania for apple production and top 5 for peaches and cherries. The county has 1,200+ farms covering 130,000 acres, supporting fruit processing, agritourism, farmers markets, wineries, and craft beverage producers. The fruit industry alone generates $100+ million annually.
How is the healthcare sector in Adams County?
Healthcare employs 4,500+ workers across WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, UPMC Hanover (partial service area), and 200+ healthcare businesses. The aging population and tourist injuries create steady demand for medical services, supporting opportunities for specialized practices and medical suppliers.
Where are the main commercial districts in Adams County?
Key commercial areas include downtown Gettysburg (historic tourism district), Route 30 corridor (retail and services), Route 15 business district (chain retail and restaurants), and downtown areas of New Oxford and Littlestown. The county's 380 retail businesses concentrate in these accessible locations.
What is the sales tax in Adams County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Adams County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and agricultural supplies are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits tourism and retail businesses compared to neighboring Maryland's 6% plus local taxes.
Is Adams County growing?
Adams County shows steady growth with 7.2% population increase since 2010 and continuous business development. Major projects include the Route 15 corridor improvements, downtown Gettysburg revitalization, and expansion of agritourism venues. The county added 300+ new businesses in the past five years.
What is the cost of living in Adams County?
Adams County offers affordable living with median home values at $265,000 and median rent at $950/month. The median household income is $72,500. Overall cost of living is 3% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Baltimore-Washington metro areas, attracting workers and retirees.
Does Adams County have public transportation?
rabbittransit operates Freedom Transit with fixed routes in Gettysburg and shared-ride services countywide. However, most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The county is 75 minutes from BWI Airport and 90 minutes from Harrisburg International Airport.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Adams County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit, health permit from PA Department of Agriculture, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. Gettysburg has additional historic district requirements. The process typically takes 2-3 months. The county has 285 food service establishments.
How do Adams County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Adams County's average effective property tax rate is 1.31%, lower than York (1.45%) and Cumberland (1.18%) but higher than Franklin (1.05%). Combined with lower property values than metro areas, this creates favorable conditions for the county's 180 real estate businesses.
Are there co-working spaces in Adams County?
Yes, Adams County has emerging co-working options including spaces in downtown Gettysburg, the Adams Commerce Center, and Gettysburg College's innovation programs. These serve freelancers, remote workers, and the county's 220 professional services businesses. Rates range from $100-300/month.
What banks offer small business loans in Adams County?
Major lenders include ACNB Bank (local headquarters), M&T Bank, PNC Bank, Members 1st Federal Credit Union, and several community banks. The county's 85 financial services businesses offer various loan products. SCORE Gettysburg provides free assistance with loan applications.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Adams County?
Agritourism (wineries, breweries, farm experiences), specialty food production, senior services (driven by retirees), and outdoor recreation businesses show strong growth. The Latino business community is expanding, particularly in agriculture and food services throughout the county.
Can I operate a home-based business in Adams County?
Yes, most Adams County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary but typically limit signage, customer traffic, and employees. Rural townships are generally more flexible than Gettysburg borough. Check with your specific municipality for zoning regulations.
How does Gettysburg's battlefield affect business operations?
The Gettysburg National Military Park creates unique opportunities and considerations. Businesses benefit from 3 million annual visitors but must respect viewshed restrictions near the battlefield. Development is limited in certain areas, but the historic designation attracts heritage tourism year-round, supporting 450+ tourism businesses.