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About Blair County
Where Mountains Meet Opportunity
Blair County rises from the heart of central Pennsylvania, where the Allegheny Mountains create a natural amphitheater around Altoona and 122,000 residents build their futures. This is where the famous Horseshoe Curve helped conquer the mountains, where Penn State Altoona educates tomorrow's leaders, and where over 4,800 businesses blend small-town values with modern innovation.
A Legacy of American Innovation
Altoona, our county seat and home to 43,000 residents, embodies the American spirit of ingenuity. Once the railroad capital of Pennsylvania, today's Altoona has transformed into a healthcare and education hub while preserving its industrial heritage. The city's 2,100 businesses range from UPMC Altoona's cutting-edge medical facilities to downtown boutiques housed in Victorian-era buildings.
Beyond Altoona, communities like Hollidaysburg charm visitors with historic architecture and antique shops, while Tyrone and Bellwood maintain their small-town manufacturing roots. The Logan Valley Mall area serves as the retail heart of the region, and rural townships throughout the county preserve Pennsylvania's agricultural traditions alongside emerging agritourism ventures.
Why Businesses Choose Blair County
The economics make sense: commercial space costs 40-60% less than Pittsburgh or Harrisburg metros. Our workforce of 58,000 combines generations of manufacturing expertise with fresh talent from Penn State Altoona's 3,000 students. Property taxes remain reasonable, and the cost of doing business stays refreshingly low.
Healthcare dominates employment with UPMC Altoona and encompassing medical facilities. Manufacturing remains strong with companies like Norfolk Southern and McLanahan Corporation. The service sector thrives supporting regional tourism to attractions like Lakemont Park and DelGrosso's Amusement Park. And increasingly, remote workers discover they can live in the mountains while working anywhere.
Life in Blair County
This is authentic Pennsylvania mountain living - where Friday night football matters, where neighbors know your name, and where you can hike the Allegheny Ridge before work. The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark draws rail enthusiasts worldwide. Canoe Creek and Prince Gallitzin state parks offer year-round outdoor recreation. Blue Knob Resort provides skiing just 30 minutes from downtown Altoona.
Families appreciate the affordable housing (median home value $156,700), safe neighborhoods, and schools that combine tradition with innovation. Young professionals find surprising nightlife in downtown Altoona's emerging arts district, craft breweries, and restaurants. Retirees love the four-season climate, excellent healthcare, and lower cost of living.
Strategic Central Pennsylvania Location
Blair County's central position opens doors. Pittsburgh lies 90 miles west via Route 22. Harrisburg is 85 miles east along the same corridor. State College and Penn State's main campus are just 45 miles north. This location provides access to multiple metropolitan markets while maintaining the advantages of smaller-city operations.
Transportation infrastructure excels: US Route 22 crosses east-west, Interstate 99 runs north-south connecting to Interstate 80, and Route 220 provides alternate north-south access. The Altoona-Blair County Airport offers regional connections, while Pittsburgh International Airport is 90 minutes away.
Discover Blair County Businesses
Whether you're seeking local services, exploring dining options, finding healthcare providers, or investigating business opportunities, our directory connects you with Blair County's diverse business community. From Altoona's urban center to Williamsburg's rural farms, from major medical facilities to family-owned shops operating since the railroad days, discover what makes Blair County an exceptional place to build your business and your life.
Blair County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
121,854
Median Age
42.9 years
Population Density
2 communities
Blair County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$60,594
Poverty Rate
13%
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
Blair County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$156,700
Median Rent
$854/mo
Owner Occupied
72%
Blair County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Blair County
What is the population of Blair County?
As of 2023, Blair County has a population of approximately 121,854 residents, making it the 20th most populous county in Pennsylvania. The population has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with the highest concentration in Altoona and the Logan Valley area.
What are the major cities and towns in Blair County?
The largest city is Altoona (county seat) with 43,963 residents, followed by Hollidaysburg, Tyrone, Bellwood, Roaring Spring, and Williamsburg. The county comprises 24 municipalities with approximately 4,800 businesses distributed across urban Altoona, suburban townships, and rural communities.
How do I start a business in Blair County?
Starting a business in Blair County requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your municipality. Altoona requires a business privilege and mercantile tax license, while other townships have varying requirements. The Altoona Blair County Development Corporation offers free guidance for new businesses.
What are the major employers in Blair County?
The largest employers include UPMC Altoona (4,500+ employees), Norfolk Southern Railroad, Penn State Altoona, McLanahan Corporation, Sheetz corporate headquarters, and the Altoona Area School District. The county has strong healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail sectors supporting approximately 4,800 businesses.
What is the average commercial rent in Blair County?
Commercial rental rates vary by location: downtown Altoona office space averages $8-14/sq ft, Logan Valley retail spaces run $12-22/sq ft, and industrial space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Pittsburgh or Harrisburg metro areas, making Blair County attractive for business growth.
What business incentives are available in Blair County?
Blair County offers KOZ (Keystone Opportunity Zone) tax abatements, LERTA programs for property improvements, New PA Venture Guarantee Program loans, and workforce training grants through PA CareerLink. The Altoona Blair County Development Corporation helps businesses access state and federal incentive programs.
How far is Blair County from major cities?
Altoona is strategically located 90 miles from Pittsburgh (1.5 hours), 85 miles from Harrisburg (1.5 hours), 45 miles from State College (45 minutes), and 140 miles from Philadelphia (2.5 hours). This central Pennsylvania location provides access to multiple metropolitan markets.
What highways run through Blair County?
Major highways include Interstate 99 (north-south connecting to I-80), US Route 22 (east-west corridor to Pittsburgh and Harrisburg), US Route 220 (alternate north-south route), and PA Route 36. These provide excellent logistics access for the county's manufacturing and distribution businesses.
What is the workforce like in Blair County?
Blair County has a labor force of approximately 58,000 workers with strong manufacturing and healthcare experience. The median age is 42.3 years, providing mature, skilled workers. Penn State Altoona and the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center support workforce development for local businesses.
What languages are spoken in Blair County?
English predominates with over 97% of residents speaking it as their primary language. The county has small but growing Spanish-speaking and Pennsylvania Dutch communities. Most businesses operate in English, though healthcare facilities increasingly offer multilingual services.
Is Blair County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, Blair County has a strong manufacturing heritage with companies like McLanahan Corporation, Grannas Bros., and New Enterprise Stone & Lime. The skilled workforce, lower operating costs, strategic location on Route 22, and available industrial sites make it ideal for manufacturing operations.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Blair County?
Blair County supports dairy farming, beef cattle operations, and corn/soybean production across 800+ farms covering 120,000 acres. Agritourism is growing with operations like DelGrosso Foods, farmers markets, and u-pick farms. The county's agricultural sector employs over 1,200 people.
How is the healthcare sector in Blair County?
Healthcare is the largest employment sector with UPMC Altoona as the flagship facility, complemented by numerous clinics, specialty practices, and senior care facilities employing 8,000+ workers. This creates opportunities for medical suppliers, home health services, and healthcare technology businesses.
Where are the main commercial districts in Blair County?
Key commercial areas include downtown Altoona (revitalizing urban core), Logan Valley Mall area (regional retail hub), Plank Road corridor (restaurants and services), and the Pleasant Valley Boulevard business district. Historic downtown Hollidaysburg offers boutique shopping and dining.
What is the sales tax in Blair County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Blair County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits the county's retail businesses compared to Maryland's higher rates.
Is Blair County growing?
Blair County shows steady economic diversification despite stable population. Major developments include UPMC Altoona's expansion, Penn State Altoona's growth, downtown Altoona revitalization projects, and new businesses in the Martin's food distribution center area. The county focuses on quality growth over rapid expansion.
What is the cost of living in Blair County?
Blair County offers affordable living with median home values at $156,700 and median household income at $60,594. Overall cost of living is 12% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Pittsburgh or Philadelphia metros, attracting workers and retirees.
Does Blair County have public transportation?
AMTRAN (Altoona Metro Transit) operates fixed bus routes throughout greater Altoona, while rural areas have limited service. Most residents rely on personal vehicles. The Altoona Transportation Center connects to intercity bus services, and Amtrak provides rail connections via the Pennsylvanian line.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Blair County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit, health permit from Blair County Health Department (or PA Department of Agriculture for townships), liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. Altoona requires additional city permits. The process typically takes 2-3 months.
How do Blair County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Blair County's average effective property tax rate is 1.42%, competitive with Centre County (1.38%) and lower than Cambria County (1.51%) but higher than Huntingdon County (1.25%). Combined with lower property values, this creates affordable options for businesses and residents.
Are there co-working spaces in Blair County?
Yes, Blair County has emerging co-working options including spaces at the Devorris Center for Business Development in downtown Altoona and LaunchBox at Penn State Altoona. These serve freelancers, remote workers, and startups. Rates range from $100-300/month for dedicated desks.
What banks offer small business loans in Blair County?
Major lenders include First National Bank, Northwest Bank, PNC Bank, Members 1st Federal Credit Union, and AmeriServ Financial. The Altoona Blair County Development Corporation assists with SBA loans and alternative financing. These institutions support the county's 4,800 businesses.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Blair County?
Healthcare services, senior care facilities, outdoor recreation/tourism businesses, and professional services show strong growth. The education sector expands with Penn State Altoona's development. Downtown Altoona sees growth in restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues.
Can I operate a home-based business in Blair County?
Yes, most Blair County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary but typically limit customer visits, signage, and employees. Altoona has specific home occupation permits, while rural townships generally have more flexible regulations. Check with your specific municipality.
What makes the Horseshoe Curve important for Blair County businesses?
The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark attracts 60,000+ annual visitors, supporting local tourism businesses. This engineering marvel symbolizes Blair County's innovation heritage and draws rail enthusiasts worldwide, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses throughout the region.