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About Mercer County
Where Industry Meets Natural Beauty
Mercer County anchors northwestern Pennsylvania, where the shores of the Shenango River Valley meet productive farmland and the legacy of America's industrial revolution lives on in modern manufacturing. This is where 109,000 residents and over 4,800 businesses create a unique blend of blue-collar pride and entrepreneurial spirit - where you might tour a candy factory in the morning and fish on Lake Wilhelm in the afternoon.
A Manufacturing Powerhouse Reimagined
Sharon and Hermitage, our twin economic engines, tell the story of American resilience. Once the heart of steel country, today's Mercer County pulses with advanced manufacturing, healthcare innovation, and a growing service sector. The region's 3,200 businesses range from precision toolmakers that supply global industries to family-owned shops that have served their communities since the 1800s.
Beyond the cities, the Route 62 corridor through Grove City offers outlet shopping that draws millions annually, while the I-79 and I-80 interchange creates a logistics sweet spot. Head into the countryside and you'll discover Amish communities, working dairy farms, and small-town businesses where everybody knows your name.
Why Businesses Choose Mercer County
The economics are compelling: Mercer County gives you access to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Erie markets at a fraction of the cost. Commercial rents run 40-60% less than metropolitan areas. Our workforce of 52,000 combines generations of manufacturing expertise with modern technical training from Penn State Shenango and Grove City College.
Plus, there's real opportunity here. Advanced manufacturing companies are expanding with robotics and automation. Healthcare networks continue growing with UPMC and Sharon Regional. Tourism draws 3 million visitors annually to Grove City Premium Outlets. And agriculture - from dairy farms to maple syrup producers - keeps innovating.
Life in Mercer County
This is authentic Pennsylvania - unpretentious, hardworking, genuinely welcoming. The Mercer County Courthouse, with its iconic clock tower, watches over a community that values tradition while embracing progress. Wendell August Forge creates hand-hammered gifts while high-tech manufacturers produce aerospace components.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Maurice K. Goddard State Park offers Pennsylvania's largest natural lake, Moraine State Park provides world-class mountain biking, and dozens of golf courses take advantage of our rolling hills. Families appreciate the excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and the fact that a median home costs just $153,600.
Your Crossroads Location
Location is everything, and Mercer County delivers. Pittsburgh is 60 miles south. Cleveland is 75 miles west. Erie is 45 miles north. Youngstown is just 20 miles away. This strategic position means businesses can reach 30 million consumers within a two-hour drive.
Major highways make connections easy: I-79 runs north-south through the county, I-80 crosses east-west, Route 62 provides scenic north-south access, and Route 208 connects our communities. This intersection makes Mercer County a natural distribution hub.
Discover Mercer County Businesses
Whether you're seeking local services, exploring dining options, finding healthcare providers, or researching business opportunities, our directory connects you with Mercer County's diverse business community. From Sharon's revitalizing downtown to Grove City's retail corridor, from major manufacturers to mom-and-pop shops, discover what makes Mercer County a smart place to do business.
Mercer County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
109,852
Median Age
45.2 years
Population Density
0 communities
Mercer County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$60,614
Poverty Rate
12.8%
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
Mercer County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$153,600
Median Rent
$808/mo
Owner Occupied
73%
Mercer County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mercer County
What is the population of Mercer County?
As of 2023, Mercer County has a population of approximately 109,852 residents, making it a mid-sized county in Pennsylvania. The population has remained relatively stable, with the highest concentrations in Hermitage, Sharon, and Grove City.
What are the major cities and towns in Mercer County?
The largest city is Hermitage with about 16,000 residents, followed by Sharon (13,000), Farrell (4,800), Grove City (8,100), and Greenville (5,600). The county comprises numerous smaller boroughs and townships with approximately 4,800 businesses distributed across urban and rural communities.
How do I start a business in Mercer County?
Starting a business in Mercer County requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your municipality. Cities like Sharon and Hermitage have their own business licensing requirements. The Penn State Shenango LaunchBox and Mercer County Chamber of Commerce offer free counseling for new businesses.
What are the major employers in Mercer County?
The largest employers include UPMC Horizon (3,000+ employees), Sharon Regional Medical Center, Joy Cone Company (world's largest ice cream cone manufacturer), Winner International (The Club anti-theft devices), Penn State Shenango, and Grove City Premium Outlets. The county has strong manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors.
What is the average commercial rent in Mercer County?
Commercial rental rates are highly competitive: downtown Sharon and Hermitage office space averages $8-12/sq ft, Grove City retail spaces run $15-25/sq ft, and industrial space along the I-80 corridor costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Pittsburgh metro areas, making Mercer County attractive for business expansion.
What business incentives are available in Mercer County?
Mercer County offers KOZ (Keystone Opportunity Zone) tax abatements, LERTA programs in several municipalities, low-interest loans through the Mercer County Industrial Development Authority, and workforce training grants through PA CareerLink. The Shenango Valley Chamber provides connections to state and local incentive programs.
How far is Mercer County from major cities?
Mercer County is strategically located 60 miles from Pittsburgh (1 hour), 75 miles from Cleveland (1.25 hours), 45 miles from Erie (45 minutes), and just 20 miles from Youngstown, Ohio (25 minutes). This provides access to over 30 million consumers within a 2-hour drive, ideal for distribution and regional sales.
What highways run through Mercer County?
Major highways include I-79 (north-south connecting Erie to Pittsburgh), I-80 (east-west connecting Ohio to central PA), US Route 62 (scenic north-south corridor), and State Route 208 (east-west connector). This intersection of interstates makes Mercer County a prime logistics location.
What is the workforce like in Mercer County?
Mercer County has a labor force of approximately 52,000 workers with strong manufacturing skills and work ethic. The median age is 43 years, providing experienced workers. Penn State Shenango, Grove City College, and Butler County Community College support workforce development for the county's businesses.
What languages are spoken in Mercer County?
While English predominates, Mercer County has growing diversity with Spanish-speaking communities in Sharon and Farrell. The county also has a significant Amish population who speak Pennsylvania Dutch. Many businesses in the service sector are adapting to serve multilingual customers.
Is Mercer County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, Mercer County has a 150+ year manufacturing heritage with thousands of skilled manufacturing workers. The strategic location at I-79/I-80, lower costs than metro areas, and experienced workforce make it ideal for manufacturing. The county excels in precision machining, food manufacturing, and industrial products.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Mercer County?
Mercer County has 1,100+ farms covering 140,000 acres, with dairy farming as the leading agricultural sector. The county also excels in beef cattle, corn, soybeans, and hay production. Agritourism is growing with farm markets, u-pick operations, and the famous Amish communities around New Wilmington.
How is the healthcare sector in Mercer County?
Healthcare is a major employment sector with UPMC Horizon and Sharon Regional Medical Center leading the way, employing over 4,500 workers combined. The aging population creates opportunities for home health services, medical equipment suppliers, and specialized care facilities throughout the county.
Where are the main commercial districts in Mercer County?
Key commercial areas include downtown Sharon (revitalizing with arts and dining), Hermitage's Route 62 business corridor, Grove City Premium Outlets (Pennsylvania's largest outlet center), and the I-79/I-80 interchange area for logistics. These districts serve as hubs for the county's retail and service businesses.
What is the sales tax in Mercer County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Mercer 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, especially Grove City Premium Outlets which draws shoppers from surrounding states.
Is Mercer County growing?
Mercer County shows stable population with strategic economic growth. Major developments include the expansion of Grove City Premium Outlets, downtown Sharon revitalization projects, and new industrial parks along I-80. The county focuses on quality growth that preserves its character while creating opportunities.
What is the cost of living in Mercer County?
Mercer County offers very affordable living with median home values at $153,600 and median household income at $60,614. The overall cost of living is 15% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Pittsburgh metro, making it attractive for workers and helping businesses maintain competitive wages.
Does Mercer County have public transportation?
Shenango Valley Shuttle Service provides limited public transit in the Sharon-Hermitage area, but most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The county is 90 minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport and 75 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Mercer County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit from your municipality, health permit from Mercer County Health Department, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. The process typically takes 2-3 months. Each municipality has specific requirements.
How do Mercer County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Mercer County's average effective property tax rate is approximately 1.35%, competitive with Crawford (1.40%) and Lawrence (1.30%) counties, but higher than Butler (1.15%). Combined with low property values, actual tax bills are very affordable, supporting business investment.
Are there co-working spaces in Mercer County?
While traditional co-working spaces are limited, Penn State Shenango's LaunchBox provides entrepreneurial space, and several coffee shops in Grove City and Hermitage offer informal work settings. The lower cost of office space often makes dedicated offices more feasible than in urban areas.
What banks offer small business loans in Mercer County?
Major lenders include First National Bank, Mercer County State Bank, PNC Bank, Northwest Bank, and several credit unions. The Mercer County Industrial Development Authority also provides low-interest loans. SCORE mentors and the Small Business Development Center offer free assistance with loan applications.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Mercer County?
Logistics/warehousing (driven by I-79/I-80 access), healthcare services, tourism and hospitality (3 million annual outlet visitors), and specialty manufacturing show strong growth. The outdoor recreation economy is also expanding with businesses serving state park visitors.
Can I operate a home-based business in Mercer County?
Yes, most Mercer 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 be more flexible than boroughs. Check with your specific municipality for local zoning regulations.
What makes Grove City Premium Outlets significant for Mercer County?
Grove City Premium Outlets is Pennsylvania's largest outlet center with 130+ stores, attracting 3 million visitors annually from a 200-mile radius. It's a major employer (2,000+ jobs) and economic driver, generating significant tax revenue and supporting hundreds of local hospitality and service businesses throughout the county.