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About Juniata County
Where Pennsylvania's Heartland Thrives
Juniata County stretches across central Pennsylvania's ridge-and-valley region, where the Juniata River winds through 23,000 residents who've mastered the art of small-town success. This is where Route 322 connects quiet farming valleys to bustling regional markets - where you'll find Amish craftsmen working alongside precision manufacturers, and where community still means knowing your neighbors by name.
A Business Community Built on Trust
Mifflintown, our county seat, anchors a business community that values relationships over transactions. With just over 800 residents, it's the kind of place where handshake deals still matter and where the county's 450+ businesses range from century-old family farms to advanced manufacturing facilities. Port Royal brings its own flavor with antique shops and local services, while the Route 35 corridor through Mifflin and Thompsontown keeps commerce flowing.
Travel the backroads and you'll discover the real economic engine: family enterprises that have thrived for generations. Amish furniture makers craft heirloom pieces in workshops without electricity. Dairy farms supply regional cooperatives. Small manufacturers produce specialized components shipped worldwide. This isn't just rural America - it's rural America that works.
Why Businesses Choose Juniata
The economics are compelling: commercial space costs 60-70% less than Harrisburg metro areas. Our workforce may be smaller at 12,000, but it's dedicated - people here show up, work hard, and take pride in quality. The 2.5% unemployment rate tells you something important: folks here want to work, and businesses that treat employees right build dynasties.
Manufacturing thrives here with companies like Triangle Pacific Corp and Empire Kosher Poultry. Agriculture remains strong with 600+ farms covering 40% of the county. Healthcare anchors the service sector with Geisinger Lewistown Hospital nearby. And tourism is growing as more people discover our covered bridges, state parks, and Amish country charm.
Life in Juniata County
This is authentic Pennsylvania - where fall festivals celebrate apple harvests, where Friday night football fills the stands, and where the Tuscarora State Forest offers endless outdoor adventures. The Big Valley stretches between Stone Mountain and Jacks Mountain, creating some of the state's most productive farmland and stunning vistas.
Families love the safe communities, affordable housing (median home value $206,300), and schools where teachers know every student. Outdoor enthusiasts explore thousands of acres of state forest, fish the Juniata River's legendary smallmouth bass waters, and hunt some of Pennsylvania's best whitetail territory.
Strategic Central Location
Don't let the rural setting fool you - Juniata County connects to everywhere that matters. Harrisburg is just 35 miles southeast. State College sits 40 miles north. Lancaster is 70 miles south. Philadelphia is 120 miles east. This positioning gives businesses access to major markets while maintaining the cost advantages and quality of life that rural Pennsylvania offers.
Route 322 provides the main east-west artery, connecting to Interstate 81 in just 30 minutes. Route 35 runs north-south along the river valley. These highways move products efficiently while keeping the county free from interstate congestion.
Discover Juniata County Businesses
Whether you're seeking local craftsmen, exploring farm-fresh markets, finding professional services, or researching business opportunities, our directory connects you with Juniata County's close-knit business community. From Mifflintown's downtown shops to Amish businesses in the Big Valley, from manufacturers in Port Royal to farms throughout the countryside, discover what makes Juniata County a special place to do business where tradition and opportunity meet.
Juniata County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
23,419
Median Age
43.1 years
Population Density
1 communities
Juniata County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$63,923
Poverty Rate
10%
Unemployment Rate
2.5%
Juniata County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$206,300
Median Rent
$730/mo
Owner Occupied
73%
Juniata County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Juniata County
What is the population of Juniata County?
As of 2023, Juniata County has a population of 23,419 residents, making it one of Pennsylvania's smaller counties by population. The population has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with most residents living in rural areas and small towns throughout the county's 392 square miles.
What are the major cities and towns in Juniata County?
The largest communities are Mifflintown (county seat, 800+ residents), Port Royal, Mifflin, Thompsontown, McAlisterville, and Richfield. The county consists of 17 townships and several boroughs, with approximately 450 businesses distributed across these rural and small-town communities.
How do I start a business in Juniata County?
Starting a business requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your township or borough office. The Juniata County Planning Commission can guide you through zoning requirements. The Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce offers resources and networking opportunities for new businesses.
What are the major employers in Juniata County?
Major employers include Triangle Pacific Corp (cabinet components), Empire Kosher Poultry, Juniata County School District, the County government, and numerous agricultural operations. While individual employers may be smaller than urban areas, the county maintains diverse employment across manufacturing, agriculture, education, and services.
What is the average commercial rent in Juniata County?
Commercial rental rates are exceptionally affordable: retail space in downtown areas averages $6-10/sq ft, office space runs $5-8/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $3-6/sq ft. These rates are 60-70% lower than Harrisburg metro areas, making Juniata County extremely attractive for cost-conscious businesses.
What business incentives are available in Juniata County?
Juniata County businesses can access Pennsylvania's Keystone Opportunity Zone programs, DCED grants, and USDA Rural Development programs. The county's rural designation qualifies businesses for special loan programs and grants not available in urban areas. Local tax rates are generally lower than metropolitan counties.
How far is Juniata County from major cities?
Juniata County is strategically located 35 miles from Harrisburg (45 minutes), 40 miles from State College (50 minutes), 70 miles from Lancaster (1.5 hours), and 120 miles from Philadelphia (2.5 hours). This central Pennsylvania location provides access to major markets while maintaining rural advantages.
What highways run through Juniata County?
US Route 322 is the main east-west highway connecting to Interstate 81 and State College. US Route 11/15 runs north-south along the eastern border. PA Route 35 follows the Juniata River valley. These routes provide good commercial access while maintaining the county's rural character.
What is the workforce like in Juniata County?
Juniata County has a labor force of approximately 12,000 workers known for strong work ethic and reliability. The unemployment rate of 2.5% indicates a tight labor market. While only 14% have bachelor's degrees, the workforce excels in skilled trades, manufacturing, and agriculture.
What languages are spoken in Juniata County?
English is the predominant language, with Pennsylvania Dutch/German spoken in Amish and Mennonite communities, particularly in the Big Valley area. The county's Plain communities represent about 10% of the population, creating unique business opportunities for those who can serve both English and Pennsylvania Dutch speakers.
Is Juniata County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, manufacturing thrives here with lower costs, dedicated workforce, and good highway access. Companies like Triangle Pacific Corp demonstrate successful manufacturing operations. The county offers affordable industrial space, lower wages than metro areas, and a workforce with strong manufacturing skills.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Juniata County?
Agriculture is central to Juniata County's economy with 600+ farms covering 150,000+ acres. Dairy farming, beef cattle, corn, soybeans, and hay production dominate. The Amish community specializes in produce, furniture, and crafts. Agritourism and farmers markets are growing sectors.
How is the healthcare sector in Juniata County?
Healthcare services are anchored by several medical clinics and proximity to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital (20 minutes). The county has family practices, dental offices, and home health services. The aging population (median age 43) creates opportunities for senior care and medical service businesses.
Where are the main commercial districts in Juniata County?
Main commercial areas include downtown Mifflintown (county seat), Port Royal's business district, and businesses along Route 322 and Route 35 corridors. Unlike urban counties, commerce is distributed throughout small towns and rural crossroads, serving local community needs.
What is the sales tax in Juniata County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Juniata County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits local retailers and keeps shopping local rather than traveling to other counties.
Is Juniata County growing?
Juniata County maintains stable, modest growth focused on quality over quantity. While population remains steady around 23,400, business development continues in manufacturing, agriculture value-added products, and tourism. The county prioritizes sustainable growth that preserves rural character.
What is the cost of living in Juniata County?
Juniata County offers exceptional affordability with median home values at $206,300 and median household income at $63,923. The overall cost of living is 15-20% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Pennsylvania metro areas, allowing families to maintain comfortable lifestyles on moderate incomes.
Does Juniata County have public transportation?
Public transportation is limited, with Call A Ride providing demand-response service for seniors and disabled residents. Most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The rural nature makes car ownership essential, but traffic congestion is virtually non-existent.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Juniata County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local zoning permit from your township/borough, health permit from the PA Department of Agriculture, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. The rural setting often means faster permit processing than urban areas.
How do Juniata County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Juniata County's property tax rates are generally lower than neighboring counties like Centre and Cumberland but comparable to other rural counties. The lower property values mean actual tax bills are often significantly less than suburban counties, benefiting both businesses and residents.
Are there co-working spaces in Juniata County?
Traditional co-working spaces are limited, but the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce facilitates networking and some libraries offer meeting spaces. Many professionals work from home offices or convert affordable commercial space into shared work environments. The low commercial rents make private offices feasible.
What banks offer small business loans in Juniata County?
Local banks including Juniata Valley Bank, First National Bank of Mifflintown, and regional banks like M&T Bank serve business lending needs. USDA Rural Development programs and the SEDA-COG provide additional funding sources specifically for rural businesses.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Juniata County?
Growing sectors include agritourism, value-added agricultural products, outdoor recreation services, and senior care services. The Amish community's furniture and craft businesses continue expanding. Small-scale manufacturing and home-based businesses leveraging internet connectivity show promise.
Can I operate a home-based business in Juniata County?
Yes, home-based businesses are generally permitted with proper zoning approval from your township. Rural zoning often provides more flexibility than urban areas. Many residents operate successful home-based businesses in consulting, crafts, online retail, and professional services.
What makes Juniata County unique for Amish country tourism?
The Big Valley area hosts one of Pennsylvania's largest Amish settlements with three distinct groups (Nebraska Amish, Byler Amish, and Renno Amish) identified by their buggy colors. This creates authentic cultural tourism opportunities with furniture shops, produce stands, and traditional crafts without the commercialization found in Lancaster County.