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About Huntingdon County
Where Mountains Meet Opportunity
Huntingdon County stretches across central Pennsylvania's ridge-and-valley landscape, where 43,800 residents have built a community that balances natural beauty with practical business sense. This is where Raystown Lake - Pennsylvania's largest lake entirely within state borders - draws half a million visitors annually, while manufacturing plants and educational institutions anchor a surprisingly diverse economy in the heart of the Alleghenies.
A Strategic Mountain Economy
Huntingdon, our county seat, serves as the commercial hub where Route 22 meets the Juniata River. Here, 1,200 businesses range from precision manufacturers supplying the defense industry to outdoor recreation outfitters capitalizing on our natural assets. The borough's historic downtown maintains its small-town charm while adapting to modern commerce.
Beyond Huntingdon, communities like Mount Union, Orbisonia, and Three Springs each contribute their own economic niches. The Route 522 corridor connects agricultural operations in the south to industrial facilities in the north. Meanwhile, the areas around Raystown Lake have developed a thriving tourism economy that supports restaurants, marinas, lodges, and recreational services year-round.
Why Businesses Choose Huntingdon County
The economics are compelling: commercial space costs 40-60% less than in State College or Harrisburg. Our strategic location along Route 22 provides direct east-west access across Pennsylvania, while Route 522 creates north-south connections. The workforce combines traditional manufacturing expertise with graduates from Juniata College, one of the state's premier liberal arts institutions.
What really sets us apart is the quality of life dividend. Employees can afford homes on wooded lots, enjoy a 10-minute commute, and spend weekends boating on Raystown Lake or hiking the Standing Stone Trail. This translates to lower turnover and higher productivity for businesses smart enough to locate here.
Life in the Alleghenies
This is authentic Pennsylvania mountain country - where deer outnumber people, where the Juniata River carves through ancient ridges, and where you can see the Milky Way on clear nights. Raystown Lake offers 118 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and swimming. The 1,000-mile Mid State Trail system passes through the county, while Rothrock State Forest and Trough Creek State Park provide endless outdoor adventures.
Yet we're not isolated. State College and Penn State University are just 30 minutes north. Families appreciate our safe communities, where crime rates run well below state averages, and where schools maintain that small-town advantage of knowing every student by name.
Central Pennsylvania's Crossroads
Location is one of Huntingdon County's underappreciated assets. We're centrally positioned: Harrisburg is 70 miles east, Pittsburgh is 120 miles west, State College is 30 miles north, and Washington, D.C. is 150 miles southeast. This puts businesses within reach of major markets while maintaining the cost advantages of rural Pennsylvania.
Route 22 serves as our main artery, connecting to Interstate 99 to the west and Interstate 81 to the east. The Norfolk Southern railway line through the county provides freight service, while the Huntingdon County Airport accommodates private aviation.
Connect with Huntingdon County Businesses
Whether you're searching for local contractors, exploring dining options near Raystown Lake, finding healthcare services, or investigating business opportunities in central Pennsylvania's most scenic county, our directory connects you with Huntingdon County's business community. From established manufacturers to emerging tourism ventures, from family farms to professional services, discover what makes Huntingdon County an unexpected gem for business and life.
Huntingdon County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
43,844
Median Age
43.5 years
Population Density
0 communities
Huntingdon County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$65,429
Poverty Rate
11%
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
Huntingdon County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$180,300
Median Rent
$795/mo
Owner Occupied
79%
Huntingdon County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Huntingdon County
What is the population of Huntingdon County?
As of 2023, Huntingdon County has a population of approximately 43,844 residents, making it one of Pennsylvania's smaller counties by population. The population has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with most residents concentrated in Huntingdon borough and the communities surrounding Raystown Lake.
What are the major cities and towns in Huntingdon County?
The largest communities are Huntingdon (county seat) with about 6,900 residents, Mount Union, Orbisonia, Three Springs, Mapleton, and Shirleysburg. The county comprises 48 municipalities with approximately 1,200 businesses distributed across small boroughs, townships, and rural areas surrounding Raystown Lake.
How do I start a business in Huntingdon 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. Huntingdon Borough requires a business license, while township requirements vary. The Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce and SCORE Harrisburg provide free counseling, and the Huntingdon County Business & Industry office offers assistance with site selection and permits.
What are the major employers in Huntingdon County?
Major employers include Juniata College (500+ employees), JC Blair Memorial Hospital, Huntingdon County government, state correctional institutions SCI-Huntingdon and SCI-Smithfield, Overhead Door Corporation, and various manufacturers. The Raystown Lake recreation area also supports numerous seasonal tourism businesses employing hundreds during peak months.
What is the average commercial rent in Huntingdon County?
Commercial rental rates are highly competitive: downtown Huntingdon office space averages $8-12/sq ft, retail spaces run $10-15/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than State College or Harrisburg markets, making Huntingdon County attractive for businesses seeking affordable expansion.
What business incentives are available in Huntingdon County?
Huntingdon County offers Keystone Opportunity Zone benefits in designated areas, LERTA tax abatements, low-interest loans through the Huntingdon County Business & Industry revolving loan fund, and workforce training grants through PA CareerLink. The Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission provides additional grant assistance for qualifying projects.
How far is Huntingdon County from major cities?
Huntingdon is strategically located 70 miles from Harrisburg (1.25 hours), 30 miles from State College (35 minutes), 120 miles from Pittsburgh (2 hours), 150 miles from Washington, D.C. (2.5 hours), and 90 miles from Altoona (1.5 hours). This central location provides access to multiple metropolitan markets while maintaining rural cost advantages.
What highways run through Huntingdon County?
Major routes include US Route 22 (main east-west corridor connecting to I-99 and I-81), US Route 522 (north-south through the county), PA Route 26 (connecting to State College), and PA Route 994. These highways provide good logistics access despite the mountainous terrain, supporting the county's manufacturing and distribution businesses.
What is the workforce like in Huntingdon County?
Huntingdon County has a labor force of approximately 20,000 workers with strong manufacturing and agricultural skills. The median age is 42 years, providing experienced workers. Juniata College contributes educated graduates, while 17.6% of adults hold bachelor's degrees or higher. The workforce is known for reliability and strong work ethic typical of rural Pennsylvania.
What languages are spoken in Huntingdon County?
English is the predominant language, spoken by over 97% of residents. The county has small Plain communities (Amish and Mennonite) who speak Pennsylvania Dutch, and Juniata College brings international diversity with students from 40+ countries, though most businesses operate primarily in English.
Is Huntingdon County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, manufacturing is a cornerstone of Huntingdon County's economy with several precision manufacturers, food processors, and building material producers. The skilled workforce, low operational costs, rail access via Norfolk Southern, and proximity to East Coast markets via Route 22 make it attractive for light to medium manufacturing operations.
What tourism and recreation businesses thrive in Huntingdon County?
Raystown Lake attracts 500,000+ annual visitors, supporting marinas, boat rentals, campgrounds, cabins, restaurants, and guide services. The county's 120+ lodging establishments, numerous outfitters, and recreational services generate significant seasonal revenue. Adventure tourism including hiking, mountain biking, and hunting also drives business growth.
How is the healthcare sector in Huntingdon County?
Healthcare is anchored by J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital (now part of Penn Highlands Healthcare) and various medical practices employing 1,000+ workers. The aging population creates opportunities for home health services, medical equipment suppliers, and senior care facilities. Telemedicine is expanding to serve the rural population.
Where are the main commercial districts in Huntingdon County?
Downtown Huntingdon along Penn and Washington Streets forms the primary commercial district. Mount Union has a secondary business district, while the Raystown Lake area features tourism-focused commercial development. Route 22 corridor hosts highway-oriented businesses, and industrial parks are located near Huntingdon and Mount Union.
What is the sales tax in Huntingdon County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Huntingdon County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits local retailers and keeps prices attractive for the significant tourist population visiting Raystown Lake and other attractions.
Is Huntingdon County growing?
Huntingdon County maintains stable population levels with modest economic growth focused on tourism, outdoor recreation, and specialized manufacturing. Raystown Lake development continues attracting investment, while downtown Huntingdon sees revitalization efforts. The county focuses on quality of life improvements rather than rapid growth.
What is the cost of living in Huntingdon County?
Huntingdon County offers affordable living with median home values at $180,300 and median household income at $65,429. The overall cost of living is 10-15% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Pennsylvania metro areas. This affordability helps businesses attract and retain workers.
Does Huntingdon County have public transportation?
Public transportation is limited, with Huntingdon-Bedford-Fulton Area Agency on Aging providing demand-response service for seniors and persons with disabilities. Most residents and workers rely on personal vehicles. The county's rural nature makes car ownership essential for most business and personal activities.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Huntingdon County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit from your municipality, health permit from the PA Department of Agriculture, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. The process typically takes 2-3 months. The county has approximately 85 food service establishments, with highest concentration near Raystown Lake.
How do Huntingdon County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Huntingdon County's effective property tax rate averages 1.2%, lower than Centre County (1.4%) and Blair County (1.3%). Combined with lower property values, this creates significant savings for businesses and residents compared to neighboring counties, particularly beneficial for the county's manufacturing and warehousing operations.
Are there co-working spaces in Huntingdon County?
Co-working options are limited but emerging, with spaces at Juniata College's business incubator and small shared offices in downtown Huntingdon. Most remote workers utilize coffee shops or home offices. The county's affordable real estate makes dedicated office space more feasible than co-working for many businesses.
What banks offer small business loans in Huntingdon County?
Local lenders include First National Bank of Mifflintown, Juniata Valley Bank, CBT Bank, and PNC Bank. The Huntingdon County Business & Industry organization offers revolving loan funds, while SEDA-COG assists with SBA loan applications. These institutions understand the local economy and seasonal business patterns.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Huntingdon County?
Outdoor recreation and tourism services show strongest growth, driven by Raystown Lake development. Healthcare services, senior care, and specialized manufacturing also expand steadily. Agricultural tourism, including farm-to-table operations and agritourism venues, represents an emerging sector combining the county's rural heritage with visitor interests.
Can I operate a home-based business in Huntingdon County?
Yes, most Huntingdon County municipalities permit home-based businesses with proper registration. Rural townships generally have fewer restrictions than boroughs. Requirements typically limit signage, customer traffic, and employees. The county's rural character and affordable property make home-based businesses particularly viable.
What makes Raystown Lake important for Huntingdon County businesses?
Raystown Lake, Pennsylvania's largest lake entirely within state borders, generates $30+ million in annual economic impact through tourism. The 8,300-acre lake supports marinas, restaurants, lodging, retail, and recreational services, creating seasonal employment for 500+ workers and year-round opportunities for businesses serving the half-million annual visitors.