Find local businesses in Lebanon County, PA.

Browse 141+ businesses across 12 communities in Lebanon County. Find reviews, hours, contact info, and discover local services, restaurants, and shops.

141+
Businesses
12
Communities

Featured businesses in Lebanon County

Be the first featured business in Lebanon County!

Get Featured

Own a business in Lebanon County?

Get your business found by local customers across Lebanon County. List your business for free and start connecting with customers in your community.

Learn More
Local Businesses
141+
Communities
12
Cost to list
Free
Support local
✓ Yes!

About Lebanon County

The Heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Lebanon County embodies the best of south-central Pennsylvania, where 144,000 residents have built a community that honors its Pennsylvania Dutch heritage while embracing modern industry. Nestled between the Blue Mountains and rolling farmland, this is where Interstate 81 meets Route 422, creating a strategic crossroads that has attracted businesses from Hershey Foods to major logistics companies. Here, you'll find fourth-generation family farms operating alongside advanced manufacturing facilities, all within an hour's drive of Harrisburg, Reading, and Lancaster.

A Sweet Business Legacy

Lebanon, our county seat, carries a unique distinction as the bologna capital of America, where Seltzer's Lebanon Bologna has been smoking meat since 1902. But this city of 26,000 tells a broader story of Pennsylvania ingenuity. Downtown Lebanon is experiencing a renaissance with new restaurants, boutiques, and professional services filling historic storefronts. The Union Canal Tunnel, America's oldest existing transportation tunnel, reminds visitors of our pioneering spirit in commerce and industry.

Beyond Lebanon city, communities like Palmyra, Annville, and Cleona each contribute their own business ecosystems. Palmyra thrives with proximity to Hershey's chocolate empire. Annville benefits from Lebanon Valley College's presence. Myerstown maintains its small-town charm while supporting light industry. Throughout the county, Pennsylvania Dutch markets, family farms, and Main Street businesses preserve traditions while adapting to modern markets.

Why Businesses Choose Lebanon County

The economics make sense: Lebanon County offers access to major East Coast markets at a fraction of the cost. Commercial real estate runs 40-60% less than Philadelphia or Baltimore metros. Our strategic location along I-81 and I-78 puts you within three hours of 50 million consumers. The workforce combines Pennsylvania Dutch work ethic with modern skills, supported by Lebanon Valley College, Harrisburg Area Community College's Lebanon campus, and numerous technical schools.

Major employers have taken notice. The VA Medical Center employs thousands. Bayer's pharmaceutical operations continue expanding. Distribution centers leverage our highway access. And agriculture remains strong - from dairy farms to mushroom houses to the growing agritourism sector. The diversity creates economic stability that benefits all businesses.

Living in Lebanon County

This is authentic Pennsylvania - where hex signs still decorate barns, where you can buy fresh shoofly pie at farmers markets, and where community still matters. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail offers 15 miles of recreational paths. Coleman Memorial Park hosts concerts and festivals. Stoever's Dam and Memorial Lake State Park provide outdoor escapes. Mount Gretna, our Victorian-era resort community, offers summer theater and arts.

Families appreciate the strong school districts, affordable housing (median home value around $227,000), and the genuine sense of community. You can live in walkable borough neighborhoods, suburban developments, or on rural acreage - all while staying within 20 minutes of shopping, healthcare, and employment centers.

Strategic Location Advantage

Lebanon County sits at the intersection of opportunity. Harrisburg, the state capital, is just 25 miles west. Philadelphia is 85 miles southeast. Baltimore is 80 miles south. New York City is 140 miles northeast. This positioning isn't just about miles - it's about access to government contracts, major ports, international airports, and diverse markets.

Transportation infrastructure supports this advantage: I-81 runs north-south connecting Canada to Tennessee, I-78 provides direct access to New Jersey and New York, Route 422 links to Reading and Philadelphia suburbs, and Route 322 connects to Harrisburg. Norfolk Southern rail lines serve industrial sites, while general aviation thrives at Deck Airport.

Connect with Lebanon County Businesses

Whether you're searching for local services, exploring dining options, seeking healthcare providers, or investigating business opportunities, our directory connects you with Lebanon County's diverse business community. From Lebanon city's revitalizing downtown to Palmyra's growing commercial corridor, from century-old family businesses to innovative startups, discover what makes Lebanon County an ideal place to grow your business and build your life.

Lebanon County Demographics & Statistics

Population Statistics (2023)

Total Population

143,592

Median Age

41.3 years

Population Density

12 communities

Lebanon County Economic Overview

Median Household Income

$76,350

Poverty Rate

10.6%

Unemployment Rate

4.1%

Lebanon County Housing Market

Median Home Value

$227,300

Median Rent

$1,087/mo

Owner Occupied

71%

Lebanon County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)

Bachelor's Degree15,036
Master's Degree6,624
Professional Degree1,151
Doctorate922

Frequently Asked Questions About Lebanon County

What is the population of Lebanon County?

Lebanon County has a population of approximately 143,592 residents as of 2023, making it the 31st most populous county in Pennsylvania. The population has grown steadily by about 6% since 2010, with the highest concentrations in Lebanon city, Palmyra, and the townships along the Route 422 corridor.

What are the major cities and towns in Lebanon County?

The largest municipality is Lebanon city (county seat) with 26,000 residents, followed by Palmyra, Annville, Cleona, Myerstown, and Cornwall. The county comprises 26 municipalities including unique communities like Mount Gretna, a Victorian resort town, and numerous Pennsylvania Dutch farming communities throughout the rural townships.

How do I start a business in Lebanon 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. Lebanon city requires a business privilege license, while townships have varying requirements. The Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce and SCORE Lebanon Valley provide free counseling and resources for new businesses.

What are the major employers in Lebanon County?

Major employers include the VA Medical Center (2,000+ employees), WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, Bayer pharmaceutical operations, Lebanon Valley College, Farmers Pride processing, and numerous distribution centers along I-81. The proximity to Hershey also provides significant employment opportunities for county residents.

What is the average commercial rent in Lebanon County?

Commercial rental rates vary by location: downtown Lebanon office space averages $10-15/sq ft, Route 422 corridor retail runs $15-25/sq ft, and warehouse space along I-81 costs $5-8/sq ft. These rates are typically 40-60% lower than Philadelphia or Baltimore metro areas, making Lebanon County attractive for business expansion.

What business incentives are available in Lebanon County?

Lebanon County offers LERTA tax abatements in designated areas, Keystone Innovation Zone benefits near Lebanon Valley College, opportunity zone investments in qualified census tracts, and workforce development grants through PA CareerLink. The Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation assists businesses in accessing state and local incentive programs.

How far is Lebanon County from major cities?

Lebanon County enjoys strategic positioning: Harrisburg is 25 miles west (30 minutes), Reading is 35 miles east (40 minutes), Lancaster is 30 miles south (35 minutes), Philadelphia is 85 miles southeast (1.5 hours), Baltimore is 80 miles south (1.5 hours), and New York City is 140 miles northeast (2.5 hours).

What highways run through Lebanon County?

Major highways include I-81 (north-south connecting Canada to Tennessee), I-78 (east-west to New Jersey), US Route 422 (east-west to Reading), US Route 322 (to Harrisburg), and PA Route 72 (north-south through Lebanon city). This excellent highway network supports the county's growing logistics and distribution sector.

What is the workforce like in Lebanon County?

Lebanon County has a labor force of approximately 72,000 workers with low unemployment at 4.1%. The workforce combines traditional Pennsylvania Dutch work ethic with modern skills. About 22% hold bachelor's degrees or higher, with Lebanon Valley College and HACC Lebanon providing ongoing workforce development and training programs.

What languages are spoken in Lebanon County?

While English predominates, Pennsylvania Dutch (German dialect) is still spoken in Plain communities, and Spanish-speaking populations are growing, particularly in Lebanon city. Many businesses, especially in agriculture and construction sectors, benefit from bilingual employees serving diverse customer bases.

Is Lebanon County good for manufacturing businesses?

Yes, Lebanon County has a strong manufacturing heritage with competitive advantages including lower costs than metro areas, skilled workforce, and excellent I-81 access. Major manufacturers include Bayer pharmaceuticals, Supreme Corporation, and numerous food processors. The county's central location and transportation infrastructure make it ideal for manufacturing and distribution.

What agricultural businesses thrive in Lebanon County?

Lebanon County ranks among Pennsylvania's top counties for dairy production, with significant poultry, beef, and crop operations. The county has over 900 farms covering 110,000+ acres. Agritourism is growing with corn mazes, farm markets, and pick-your-own operations. Food processing, including the famous Lebanon bologna industry, adds value to agricultural products.

How is the healthcare sector in Lebanon County?

Healthcare is a major employer with the Lebanon VA Medical Center, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, and numerous medical practices employing over 5,000 workers combined. The aging population and proximity to Hershey Medical Center create opportunities for medical suppliers, home health services, and specialized care facilities.

Where are the main commercial districts in Lebanon County?

Key commercial areas include downtown Lebanon (revitalizing with shops and restaurants), Route 422 corridor through Palmyra and Annville (retail and dining), Route 72 North (big box retail), and I-81 interchanges (hotels and travel services). Each community maintains its own Main Street business district serving local needs.

What is the sales tax in Lebanon County?

Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Lebanon County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate, combined with no local sales tax, benefits retail businesses compared to neighboring Maryland's higher rates.

Is Lebanon County growing?

Yes, Lebanon County shows steady growth with 6% population increase since 2010 and continuous business development. Major projects include downtown Lebanon revitalization, expansion along the I-81 corridor, and new residential developments in South Lebanon and North Cornwall townships. The county's strategic location continues attracting logistics and distribution facilities.

What is the cost of living in Lebanon County?

Lebanon County offers affordable living with median home values at $227,300 and median household income of $76,350. The overall cost of living is approximately 8% below the national average and significantly lower than nearby metro areas. This affordability helps businesses attract and retain workers.

Does Lebanon County have public transportation?

Lebanon Transit provides fixed-route bus service within Lebanon city and paratransit services countywide. However, most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The county is 30 minutes from Harrisburg International Airport and within 90 minutes of Philadelphia and Baltimore airports for business travel.

What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Lebanon 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. Lebanon city has additional requirements. The process typically takes 2-3 months. The Lebanon Valley Chamber can guide you through the permit process.

How do Lebanon County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?

Lebanon County's average effective property tax rate is approximately 1.42%, competitive with Lancaster (1.33%) and lower than Dauphin (1.56%) and Berks (1.54%). Combined with lower property values than suburban Philadelphia counties, this creates an affordable environment for businesses and residents.

Are there co-working spaces in Lebanon County?

While Lebanon County has fewer co-working spaces than larger metros, options include spaces in downtown Lebanon and shared office facilities near Lebanon Valley College. Many professionals utilize coffee shops and the Lebanon Community Library's business resources. Rates typically range from $100-250/month for flexible workspace.

What banks offer small business loans in Lebanon County?

Major lenders include Fulton Bank, Members 1st Federal Credit Union, PNC Bank, Northwest Bank, and Jonestown Bank & Trust (local community bank). The Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation and SCORE Lebanon Valley provide free assistance with loan applications and connecting businesses with appropriate lenders.

What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Lebanon County?

Logistics and warehousing (leveraging I-81 access), healthcare services, professional services, and agritourism show strong growth. The food manufacturing sector continues expanding beyond traditional products. Downtown Lebanon's revitalization is attracting restaurants, breweries, and specialty retail businesses.

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

Yes, most Lebanon County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary by township but typically limit customer visits, signage, and employees. Rural townships tend to have more flexible regulations than boroughs. Check with your specific municipality among the county's 26 communities for local zoning requirements.

What makes Lebanon Bologna famous and how does it impact local business?

Lebanon Bologna, a fermented, smoked beef sausage, has been produced in Lebanon County since the 1800s. Companies like Seltzer's (since 1902) and Weaver's make this USDA-recognized regional specialty. The bologna industry attracts food tourists, supports local agriculture, and creates a unique identity that benefits restaurants, markets, and tourism-related businesses throughout the county.