Cambria County rises from the Allegheny Mountains of west-central Pennsylvania, where 132,000 residents have transformed a storied steel legacy into a diverse modern economy. This is where the Johnstown Inclined Plane climbs the world's steepest vehicular grade, where pristine state parks border thriving business districts, and where the spirit of American resilience runs as deep as the coal seams that once powered the nation.

An Economy Reborn

Johnstown, our county seat, embodies American determination. The city that survived devastating floods and industrial decline now hosts advanced manufacturers, healthcare innovators, and technology companies in reimagined spaces. Today's Johnstown supports over 2,100 businesses ranging from precision metalworking firms to medical device manufacturers, from boutique shops in restored Victorian buildings to modern distribution centers.

Beyond Johnstown, communities like Ebensburg, the county's geographic center, maintain charming downtown districts while Richland Township's commercial corridors pulse with retail energy. Northern Cambria preserves its mining heritage while embracing renewable energy. Westmont and Southmont offer suburban convenience, while rural townships host everything from maple syrup producers to high-tech startups seeking affordable space and quality of life.

Why Businesses Choose Cambria

The economics make sense: commercial space costs 40-60% less than Pittsburgh metro areas. Our workforce of 58,000 combines generations of manufacturing expertise with modern technical skills from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, Mount Aloysius College, and Pennsylvania Highlands Community College. Property taxes remain competitive, and the cost of doing business stays refreshingly low.

But it's more than numbers. Cambria County offers genuine opportunity. Defense contractors thrive here, leveraging proximity to military installations. Healthcare networks continue expanding. Outdoor recreation businesses tap into our natural assets. And manufacturers - from traditional steel fabricators to cutting-edge composite producers - find the skilled workers and logistics access they need.

Life in the Alleghenies

This is authentic Pennsylvania mountain country - rugged, beautiful, and surprisingly accessible. The Ghost Town Trail winds through 36 miles of converted rail corridor. Prince Gallitzin State Park offers 6,249 acres of recreation around Glendale Lake. Blue Knob, Pennsylvania's second-highest peak, provides year-round outdoor adventures from skiing to stargazing.

Families value our safe communities, affordable housing where the median home costs just $115,900, and schools that prepare students for real careers. The Johnstown Symphony Orchestra performs in a restored movie palace. The Cambria County War Memorial hosts hockey games and concerts. Small-town festivals celebrate everything from ethnic heritage to local agriculture.

Strategic Mountain Gateway

Location surprises newcomers. Pittsburgh lies just 67 miles west via Route 22. State College is 45 miles northeast. Altoona is 25 miles east. This positioning provides access to major markets while maintaining small-town quality of life and costs. The region serves as a crucial link between eastern and western Pennsylvania.

Transportation infrastructure delivers: Route 219 runs north-south as our main artery, Route 22 connects east-west, Route 56 provides scenic alternative routes, and the nearby Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-70/76) offers interstate access. Norfolk Southern rail lines serve industrial sites, supporting our manufacturing and logistics sectors.

Connect with Cambria County Business

Whether you're seeking local services, exploring dining options, finding healthcare providers, or investigating business opportunities, our directory links you with Cambria County's dynamic business community. From Johnstown's urban core to quiet mountain villages, from major medical centers to family-owned shops operating for generations, discover why businesses and families choose to grow in Cambria County.

Cambria County Demographics & Statistics

Population Statistics (2023)

Total Population

132,355

Median Age

45.7 years

Population Density

1 communities

Cambria County Economic Overview

Median Household Income

$56,292

Poverty Rate

14.2%

Unemployment Rate

4.7%

Cambria County Housing Market

Median Home Value

$115,900

Median Rent

$733/mo

Owner Occupied

76%

Cambria County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)

Bachelor's Degree14,657

Master's Degree5,314

Professional Degree1,276

Doctorate660

Frequently Asked Questions About Cambria County

What is the population of Cambria County?

Cambria County has a population of approximately 132,355 residents as of 2023, making it the 23rd most populous county in Pennsylvania. The population is distributed across the county's 63 municipalities, with the highest concentration in Johnstown and surrounding boroughs.

What are the major cities and towns in Cambria County?

The largest city is Johnstown (18,411 residents), serving as the county seat. Other significant communities include Ebensburg, Richland Township, Westmont, Southmont, Northern Cambria, Portage, Cresson, and Windber. The county comprises 63 municipalities supporting approximately 3,800 businesses.

How do I start a business in Cambria 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. Johnstown requires a business privilege and mercantile license, while other townships have varying requirements. The Cambria Regional Chamber and JARI (Johnstown Area Regional Industries) offer free business counseling and support services.

What are the major employers in Cambria County?

Major employers include Conemaugh Health System (6,000+ employees), Concurrent Technologies Corporation, Gautier Steel, Norfolk Southern Railway, 1st Summit Bank, and Penelec. The county also hosts significant employers in defense contracting, healthcare, education, and manufacturing across approximately 3,800 businesses.

What is the average commercial rent in Cambria County?

Commercial rental rates vary by location: downtown Johnstown office space averages $8-14/sq ft, retail spaces in Richland Township run $12-20/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Pittsburgh metro areas, making Cambria County highly competitive for business operations.

What business incentives are available in Cambria County?

Cambria County offers Keystone Opportunity Zones with significant tax relief, LERTA tax abatements, Enterprise Zone tax credits, and various state grants through DCED. The Cambria County Industrial Development Corporation provides low-interest loans and technical assistance for qualifying businesses.

How far is Cambria County from major cities?

Johnstown is strategically located 67 miles from Pittsburgh (1.5 hours), 45 miles from State College (1 hour), 25 miles from Altoona (30 minutes), and 140 miles from Harrisburg (2.5 hours). This provides access to multiple metropolitan markets while maintaining lower operating costs.

What highways run through Cambria County?

Major highways include US Route 219 (north-south primary corridor), US Route 22 (east-west connection), PA Route 56 (scenic east-west route), and PA Route 53 (regional connector). The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-70/76) is accessible within 20 miles, providing interstate connectivity for the county's businesses.

What is the workforce like in Cambria County?

Cambria County has a labor force of approximately 58,000 workers with strong manufacturing and healthcare skills. The median age is 44.8 years, providing experienced workers. With 22.1% holding bachelor's degrees or higher, the workforce is supported by UPJ, Mount Aloysius College, and Pennsylvania Highlands Community College.

What languages are spoken in Cambria County?

English is the predominant language, with approximately 97% of residents speaking English at home. The county has historical Eastern European heritage communities (Slovak, Polish, Italian) that maintain cultural traditions. Some businesses, particularly in healthcare and services, offer multilingual support.

Is Cambria County good for manufacturing businesses?

Yes, Cambria County has a 150+ year manufacturing tradition with strong metalworking, fabrication, and precision manufacturing capabilities. The skilled workforce, significantly lower costs than metro areas, and strategic location on Route 219 and 22 corridors make it ideal for manufacturing. The county maintains over 400 manufacturing businesses.

What outdoor recreation businesses thrive in Cambria County?

Outdoor recreation is growing with businesses serving Ghost Town Trail users, Prince Gallitzin State Park visitors (1.5 million annually), and Blue Knob All Seasons Resort patrons. Outfitters, guide services, equipment rentals, and hospitality businesses benefit from the county's extensive forests, trails, and waterways.

How is the healthcare sector in Cambria County?

Healthcare is the largest employment sector with Conemaugh Health System, UPMC presence, and numerous facilities employing over 10,000 workers total. The sector includes approximately 650 health and wellness businesses, creating opportunities for medical suppliers, specialized services, and health technology companies.

Where are the main commercial districts in Cambria County?

Key commercial areas include downtown Johnstown (revitalizing urban core), Richland Town Centre (retail hub), Galleria Mall area, Ebensburg's historic downtown, Route 219 corridor, and developing areas near UPJ. These districts host the majority of the county's retail and service businesses.

What is the sales tax in Cambria County?

Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Cambria 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 some neighboring states with higher rates.

Is Cambria County's economy growing?

While population has stabilized, economic diversification shows positive trends. Defense contracting is expanding, healthcare continues growing, and outdoor tourism increases annually. The county has successfully transitioned from steel dependence to a diverse economy with growing technology, healthcare, and recreation sectors.

What is the cost of living in Cambria County?

Cambria County offers exceptional affordability with median home values at $115,900 and median household income at $56,292. Overall cost of living is 15-20% below the national average and 30-40% lower than Pittsburgh metro, allowing businesses to offer competitive wages while employees maintain quality lifestyles.

Does Cambria County have public transportation?

CamTran operates fixed-route bus service in the Johnstown area with 17 routes, while IndiGO provides service in Indiana County connections. Most residents rely on personal vehicles. John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport offers limited commercial flights, with Pittsburgh International Airport 90 minutes away.

What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Cambria County?

Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit, health permit from Cambria County Health Department, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. Johnstown requires additional city permits. The process typically takes 2-3 months. The county has approximately 380 food service establishments.

How do Cambria County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?

Cambria County's average effective property tax rate is approximately 1.35%, competitive with Blair (1.28%) and Indiana (1.41%) counties, and lower than Westmoreland (1.52%). Combined with low property values, this creates affordable ownership costs for the county's businesses and residents.

Are there co-working spaces in Cambria County?

Yes, Cambria County has emerging co-working options including spaces at 1st Summit Bank's Entrepreneur Center in downtown Johnstown and startup-friendly spaces near UPJ. These serve the county's growing remote workforce and entrepreneurial community. Rates typically range from $100-250/month.

What banks offer small business loans in Cambria County?

Major lenders include 1st Summit Bank (local leader), AmeriServ Financial, PNC Bank, Northwest Bank, and Somerset Trust Company. The county's financial institutions understand local business needs. JARI and the Cambria Regional Chamber provide assistance with loan applications and business planning.

What role does the Johnstown flood history play in modern business?

The 1889 Johnstown Flood and subsequent floods shaped the community's resilience and engineering innovation. Today, flood control systems protect businesses, the Johnstown Flood Museum attracts 50,000+ annual visitors supporting tourism businesses, and the community's survival story inspires entrepreneurial determination.

What defense contracting opportunities exist in Cambria County?

Cambria County hosts significant defense contractors including Concurrent Technologies Corporation and other firms serving military contracts. Proximity to military installations and specialized manufacturing capabilities create opportunities for businesses in defense supply chains, with JARI helping companies pursue defense contracts.

Can I operate a home-based business in Cambria County?

Yes, most Cambria County municipalities permit home-based businesses with proper registration. Requirements vary by township but typically limit signage, customer traffic, and employees. Check with your specific municipality among the county's 63 communities for local zoning regulations and permit requirements.

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Where Mountains Shape Success