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About Mckean County
Where Pennsylvania's History Flows
McKean County stretches across Pennsylvania's northern tier, where the Allegheny National Forest meets historic oil boomtowns and Route 6 winds through mountain valleys. This is where 40,000 residents and over 1,100 businesses create a unique blend of outdoor recreation, energy heritage, and small-town resilience - where you might spot a black bear on your morning commute or visit the world's first billion-dollar oil field.
A Legacy of Innovation
Bradford, our county seat, stands as a testament to American energy innovation. Once home to the world's first billion-dollar oil field, today's Bradford balances its petroleum heritage with Zippo Manufacturing Company's global headquarters, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, and a growing healthcare sector. The city's 600+ businesses range from century-old manufacturers to outdoor recreation outfitters serving Allegheny National Forest visitors.
Beyond Bradford, communities like Kane, Smethport, and Mount Jewett maintain their small-town character while adapting to modern times. The Route 6 corridor, one of America's most scenic highways, connects these communities while supporting tourism, hospitality, and local businesses that have served generations of McKean County families.
Why Businesses Choose McKean
The economics make sense: McKean County offers the lowest operating costs in Pennsylvania with commercial space at a fraction of urban prices. Our workforce of 18,000 combines traditional manufacturing expertise with skills in healthcare, forestry, and energy production. The Seneca Nation's presence adds cultural richness and economic partnerships.
Opportunity abounds in unexpected places. Outdoor recreation businesses thrive on 517,000 acres of public forest land. Manufacturing continues with companies like Zippo and American Refining Group. Healthcare expands through UPMC Kane and Bradford Regional Medical Center. And the Marcellus Shale has brought new energy sector investments.
Life in McKean County
This is authentic Pennsylvania wilderness - untamed, unspoiled, wonderfully wild. The Kinzua Bridge State Park showcases the rebuilt viaduct turned skywalk. The Allegheny Reservoir offers world-class fishing and boating. In winter, ski resorts and hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails transform the landscape into a recreation paradise.
For families, McKean County delivers what matters: safe communities where kids can still ride bikes to school, housing you can actually afford, and access to outdoor adventures right in your backyard. The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford brings college town energy, while small-town festivals celebrate everything from the Swedish heritage in Kane to Bradford's famous Zippo cars.
Your Northern Gateway
Location provides unique advantages. Buffalo is 80 miles north. Pittsburgh is 130 miles south. Erie is 90 miles west. This positioning makes McKean County perfect for businesses serving the Northern Pennsylvania and Southern New York markets, with lower costs than any regional metro area.
Major routes make connections easy: Route 6 crosses the county east-west as part of one of America's longest highways, Route 219 runs north-south connecting to Interstate 86 in New York, and Route 59 provides access through the heart of the Allegheny National Forest.
Discover McKean County Businesses
Whether you're searching for outdoor guides, finding healthcare providers, exploring local manufacturers, or researching business opportunities, our directory connects you with McKean County's determined business community. From Bradford's downtown district to forest-edge enterprises, from global manufacturers to family-owned shops, discover what makes McKean County a unique place to build your business and your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mckean County
What is the population of McKean County?
As of 2023, McKean County has a population of approximately 40,625 residents, making it one of Pennsylvania's less densely populated counties. The population has declined about 5% since 2010, though certain areas like Bradford and Kane remain stable with new residents attracted by outdoor recreation and lower living costs.
What are the major cities and towns in McKean County?
The largest city is Bradford (county seat) with 7,825 residents, followed by Kane (3,612), Smethport (1,430), Port Allegany (2,006), and Mount Jewett (755). The county comprises 22 municipalities with over 1,100 businesses distributed across small towns and rural townships.
How do I start a business in McKean 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. Bradford and Kane have specific business licensing requirements. The Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission and SCORE Williamsport provide free business counseling and planning assistance.
What are the major employers in McKean County?
The largest employers include Zippo Manufacturing Company (500+ employees), Bradford Regional Medical Center (1,000+ employees), American Refining Group (300+ employees), University of Pittsburgh at Bradford (400+ employees), UPMC Kane (300+ employees), and Kane Area School District. The county has strong manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors.
What is the average commercial rent in McKean County?
Commercial rental rates are among Pennsylvania's lowest: downtown Bradford office space averages $6-10/sq ft, retail spaces run $8-12/sq ft, and industrial space costs $3-6/sq ft. These rates are 60-70% lower than Pittsburgh or Erie metro areas, making McKean County extremely attractive for business startups and expansions.
What business incentives are available in McKean County?
McKean County offers KOZ (Keystone Opportunity Zone) tax abatements, DCED grants for business expansion, low-interest loans through the McKean County Redevelopment Authority, and workforce training grants through PA CareerLink. The county's Enterprise Zone designation provides additional tax credits for qualifying businesses.
How far is McKean County from major cities?
Bradford is strategically located 80 miles from Buffalo, NY (1.5 hours), 130 miles from Pittsburgh (2.5 hours), 90 miles from Erie (2 hours), and 110 miles from Rochester, NY (2 hours). This provides access to multiple metropolitan markets while maintaining rural operating costs.
What highways run through McKean County?
Major highways include US Route 6 (east-west scenic highway), US Route 219 (north-south connecting to I-86 in NY), PA Route 59 (through Allegheny National Forest), and PA Route 46 (connecting to Potter County). These provide good access despite the mountainous terrain, supporting the county's 1,100+ businesses.
What is the workforce like in McKean County?
McKean County has a labor force of approximately 18,000 workers with strong manufacturing and healthcare skills. The median age is 45.2 years, providing experienced, stable workers. The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford supplies educated talent, while the workforce is known for strong work ethic and loyalty to employers.
What role does the Allegheny National Forest play in the economy?
The Allegheny National Forest covers 517,000 acres (42% of the county), generating millions in tourism revenue and supporting 200+ outdoor recreation businesses. The forest provides timber resources, attracts 2 million annual visitors, and creates opportunities for guides, outfitters, lodging, and hospitality businesses.
Is McKean County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, McKean County has a 150-year manufacturing heritage with companies like Zippo (lighters), American Refining Group (lubricants), and various wood products manufacturers. The skilled workforce, extremely low costs, and business-friendly environment make it ideal for manufacturing. The county maintains 125+ manufacturing businesses.
What natural resource industries exist in McKean County?
McKean County has active oil and gas production (birthplace of the oil industry), timber and forest products from the Allegheny National Forest, and Marcellus Shale natural gas development. These industries support 150+ energy and resource businesses and provide high-paying jobs in extraction and support services.
How is the healthcare sector in McKean County?
Healthcare is a major employer with Bradford Regional Medical Center, UPMC Kane, and numerous clinics employing 2,000+ workers. The aging population creates demand for home health services, medical equipment, and specialized care. The sector includes 85+ health and wellness businesses serving local and regional patients.
Where are the main commercial districts in McKean County?
Key commercial areas include downtown Bradford (Main Street district), Kane's downtown (historic Swedish community), Smethport's Mansion District, and Route 219 commercial corridor. Tourism businesses cluster near Kinzua Bridge State Park and along Route 6. The county's businesses concentrate in these walkable town centers.
What is the sales tax in McKean County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout McKean County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits the county's retail and hospitality businesses compared to New York's higher rates just miles north.
Is McKean County growing or declining?
While population has declined 5% since 2010, McKean County shows economic resilience with stable employment, growing outdoor recreation sector, and new Marcellus Shale investments. Downtown Bradford revitalization, Zippo's continued expansion, and increased tourism suggest economic transition rather than decline, with opportunities in emerging sectors.
What is the cost of living in McKean County?
McKean County offers Pennsylvania's lowest cost of living with median home values at $89,900 and median rent at $650/month. The median household income is $54,983. Overall cost of living is 20% below the national average and 35% lower than Pennsylvania metros, allowing businesses to offer competitive wages at lower costs.
Does McKean County have public transportation?
The Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania (ATA) provides limited bus service in Bradford and Kane, plus medical transportation. Most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. Bradford Regional Airport offers general aviation services, while commercial flights require driving to Buffalo or Pittsburgh airports.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in McKean County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit from your municipality, health permit from PA Department of Agriculture, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. The process typically takes 2-3 months. The county has 75+ food service establishments concentrated in Bradford and Kane.
How do McKean County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
McKean County's average effective property tax rate is 1.89%, higher than Potter (1.76%) but lower than Warren (2.01%). However, with the lowest property values in the region, actual tax bills remain very affordable. This benefits the county's real estate businesses and attracts retirees and remote workers.
What outdoor recreation businesses thrive in McKean County?
Outdoor recreation is booming with guide services, outfitters, campgrounds, ski resorts, ATV/snowmobile rentals, and lodges. The Allegheny National Forest, Kinzua Bridge State Park, and Allegheny Reservoir support 200+ recreation businesses. Activities include hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling, creating year-round business opportunities.
What banks offer small business loans in McKean County?
Major lenders include Northwest Bank (headquarters in Warren), CNB Bank, Hamlin Bank & Trust, and First National Bank of Pennsylvania. The McKean County Redevelopment Authority offers low-interest loans. The Northern Tier Regional Planning Commission assists with loan applications and business planning for the county's 1,100+ businesses.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in McKean County?
Outdoor recreation/tourism (20% growth), healthcare services (aging population), specialty manufacturing (Zippo expansion), and energy services (Marcellus Shale) show strong growth. Remote work is bringing new residents who start online businesses, while the craft beverage industry begins to emerge in Bradford and Kane.
Can I operate a home-based business in McKean County?
Yes, McKean County's rural nature and local zoning make it ideal for home-based businesses. Most townships allow home businesses with minimal restrictions. Requirements vary but typically limit signage and customer traffic. The low cost of rural properties with high-speed internet makes McKean County attractive for remote workers and online businesses.
How does the oil heritage impact today's McKean County economy?
McKean County's oil heritage remains economically relevant with American Refining Group operating Pennsylvania's only refinery, 600+ active oil wells still producing, the Penn Brad Oil Museum attracting tourists, and modern Marcellus Shale development. This energy expertise supports 150+ energy sector businesses and high-paying technical jobs.