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About Mifflin County
The Heart of the Juniata Valley
Mifflin County stretches across central Pennsylvania's scenic Juniata River Valley, where 46,000 residents have built a community that balances traditional values with industrial innovation. This is where U.S. Route 322 cuts through the Seven Mountains, where Amish buggies share roads with logging trucks, and where Lewistown's Victorian architecture stands testament to a proud manufacturing heritage that continues today.
A Working County with Deep Roots
Lewistown, our county seat of 8,200 residents, anchors a region that's been making things since the 1790s. Once home to the world's largest silk mill and a major stop on the Pennsylvania Railroad, today's Lewistown hosts precision manufacturers, healthcare facilities, and a revitalizing downtown where new businesses are discovering affordable storefronts in historic buildings.
Beyond Lewistown, communities like Burnham, Belleville, and McVeytown each contribute their own character. The Big Valley, home to one of Pennsylvania's largest Amish settlements, produces furniture, quilts, and fresh produce that draw visitors from across the state. Meanwhile, the industrial corridor along Route 322 keeps the county's manufacturing tradition alive with modern facilities producing everything from electrical components to specialty papers.
Why Businesses Choose Mifflin County
The economics are compelling: commercial space costs 40-60% less than in State College or Harrisburg. Our workforce combines generations of manufacturing expertise with surprising diversity - from skilled Amish craftsmen to technically trained operators. With unemployment at just 3.3%, people here know how to work.
Strategic location adds value. Sitting at the geographic center of Pennsylvania, businesses can reach Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Baltimore all within 2.5 hours. The Route 322 corridor provides direct east-west access, while Route 522 connects north to I-80. For companies needing to serve Pennsylvania markets, it doesn't get more central than this.
Life in the Valley
This is authentic Pennsylvania - where the Juniata River provides world-class fishing, where the Standing Stone Trail offers 70 miles of hiking, and where you can buy fresh bread from an Amish bakery in the morning and catch a concert at the historic Embassy Theatre that evening.
The Seven Mountains surrounding us aren't just beautiful - they're playgrounds. Greenwood Furnace State Park preserves our iron-making past while offering swimming and camping. Reeds Gap State Park provides picnic areas and trails. In winter, locals head to nearby ski resorts, while summer brings county fairs, auctions, and the famous Belleville Sale every Wednesday.
Room to Grow
With median home values at $142,900 and quality of life that city dwellers dream about, Mifflin County attracts families looking for authentic community. Our schools may be small, but they're tight-knit. Crime rates stay low. Neighbors still know each other. And yes, you can actually afford to own a home and start a business here.
Healthcare anchors our service sector with Geisinger Lewistown Hospital leading the way. Manufacturing remains strong with companies like Standard Steel, Phoenix Closures, and FirstEnergy. Agriculture thrives through both traditional farming and Amish enterprises. And there's genuine opportunity for entrepreneurs who see potential where others see small-town America.
Connected Yet Peaceful
State College sits 30 miles north, bringing Penn State's resources within reach. Harrisburg, the state capital, is 50 miles south. This proximity to larger markets without the congestion makes Mifflin County ideal for businesses wanting the best of both worlds - rural quality of life with urban access.
Discover Mifflin County Businesses
From Amish furniture makers in Big Valley to precision manufacturers in the industrial park, from family restaurants serving Pennsylvania Dutch specialties to professional services supporting our growing business community, our directory connects you with Mifflin County's diverse economy. Whether you're a resident seeking local services or an entrepreneur exploring opportunities, discover why businesses and families have called the Juniata Valley home for over 200 years.
Mifflin County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
46,074
Median Age
43.1 years
Population Density
1 communities
Mifflin County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$61,415
Poverty Rate
16%
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
Mifflin County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$142,900
Median Rent
$792/mo
Owner Occupied
71%
Mifflin County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mifflin County
What is the population of Mifflin County?
As of 2023, Mifflin County has a population of 46,074 residents. The county has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with Lewistown as the largest municipality at approximately 8,200 residents, followed by smaller boroughs and townships spread throughout the Juniata Valley.
What are the major cities and towns in Mifflin County?
The major communities include Lewistown (county seat), Burnham, Belleville, McVeytown, Kistler, Yeagertown, and Reedsville. The county comprises 16 municipalities including boroughs and townships, with significant Amish populations in the Big Valley area around Belleville and Allensville.
How do I start a business in Mifflin 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. Lewistown requires a business license through the borough office. The Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation and SEDA-COG provide free business counseling and assistance with permits and planning.
What are the major employers in Mifflin County?
Major employers include Geisinger Lewistown Hospital (1,500+ employees), Standard Steel, FirstEnergy's Juniata Generation Station, Phoenix Closures, Mifflin County School District, and numerous Amish businesses in Big Valley. Manufacturing and healthcare dominate employment, followed by retail and agriculture.
What is the average commercial rent in Mifflin County?
Commercial rental rates are highly competitive: downtown Lewistown storefronts average $6-12/sq ft, office space runs $8-15/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than State College or Harrisburg markets, making Mifflin County attractive for business startups and expansions.
What business incentives are available in Mifflin County?
Mifflin County offers Keystone Opportunity Zone benefits, LERTA tax abatements in designated areas, low-interest loans through the Industrial Development Corporation, and workforce training grants via PA CareerLink. The county's Enterprise Zone designation provides additional tax credits for job creation.
How far is Mifflin County from major cities?
Lewistown is strategically located 50 miles from Harrisburg (1 hour), 30 miles from State College (35 minutes), 95 miles from Pittsburgh (2 hours), and 165 miles from Philadelphia (3 hours). This central Pennsylvania location provides excellent access to major markets while maintaining rural affordability.
What highways run through Mifflin County?
U.S. Route 322 is the main east-west corridor connecting to State College and Harrisburg. U.S. Route 522 runs north-south providing access to I-80 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. State Routes 103, 655, and 305 connect smaller communities. These routes support the county's manufacturing and agricultural distribution needs.
What is the workforce like in Mifflin County?
Mifflin County has a dedicated workforce with strong manufacturing skills and traditional work ethic. With unemployment at 3.3%, the labor pool includes experienced factory workers, skilled Amish craftsmen, and healthcare professionals. While only 12.4% hold bachelor's degrees, technical skills and craftsmanship are abundant.
What languages are spoken in Mifflin County?
English is predominant, but Pennsylvania Dutch (German dialect) is widely spoken in the Big Valley's Amish communities. The Nebraska Amish, Byler Amish, and Renno Amish groups each maintain their distinct dialects. This creates unique opportunities for businesses serving these traditional communities.
Is Mifflin County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, manufacturing is deeply rooted in Mifflin County's economy with a skilled workforce experienced in metalworking, textiles, and precision manufacturing. Lower operating costs, available industrial sites along Route 322, and central Pennsylvania location make it ideal for manufacturers serving regional markets.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Mifflin County?
Agriculture remains vital with dairy farming, crop production, and extensive Amish agricultural enterprises. The Big Valley produces vegetables, dairy products, and handcrafted goods. The weekly Belleville Sale livestock auction is one of Pennsylvania's largest. Agritourism and farm-to-table businesses are growing sectors.
How is the healthcare sector in Mifflin County?
Healthcare is the largest employment sector, anchored by Geisinger Lewistown Hospital with 1,500+ employees. The hospital's recent affiliation with Geisinger Health System has expanded services. Additional opportunities exist in home health, senior care, and medical support services for the aging population.
Where are the main commercial districts in Mifflin County?
Downtown Lewistown along Market Street offers historic storefronts and professional offices. The Route 322 corridor through Burnham hosts retail and services. Belleville serves as the commercial hub for Big Valley's Amish community. The Lewistown Industrial Park houses major manufacturers.
What is the sales tax in Mifflin County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Mifflin County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment remain tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits local retailers, especially compared to Maryland's higher rates just 40 miles south.
Is Mifflin County growing?
While population remains stable, economic development is active with industrial park expansions, downtown Lewistown revitalization efforts, and growing Amish enterprises. The county focuses on retaining young families through affordable housing (median value $142,900) and quality of life improvements.
What is the cost of living in Mifflin County?
Mifflin County offers exceptional affordability with median home values at $142,900 and median household income at $61,415. Overall cost of living runs 15-20% below the national average and 30-40% less than nearby State College, allowing families to achieve homeownership and businesses to control costs.
Does Mifflin County have public transportation?
Call-A-Ride provides demand-response transportation for seniors and disabled residents. Most residents rely on personal vehicles. The Amish community uses horse and buggy transportation, which local traffic infrastructure accommodates. Regional bus service connects to State College and Harrisburg.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Mifflin County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local municipal permit, 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. Mifflin County's streamlined permitting helps new restaurants open efficiently.
How do Mifflin County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Mifflin County's effective property tax rate averages 1.42%, competitive with Centre County (1.38%) and lower than Huntingdon (1.51%) or Snyder (1.48%). Combined with low property values, actual tax bills remain affordable, supporting both homeownership and business property investment.
Are there co-working spaces in Mifflin County?
While traditional co-working spaces are limited, the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation offers affordable office space for startups. Several downtown Lewistown buildings provide flexible lease terms for small businesses. The library system offers free WiFi and meeting spaces for remote workers.
What banks offer small business loans in Mifflin County?
Local lenders include Juniata Valley Bank (headquartered in Mifflin County), First National Bank, CNB Bank, and credit unions like JVB Federal Credit Union. The Industrial Development Corporation offers low-interest loans. These local banks understand the county's unique business environment including Amish enterprises.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Mifflin County?
Healthcare services, Amish craft businesses, agritourism, and specialized manufacturing show strong growth. Downtown Lewistown sees new restaurants and retail. The outdoor recreation economy grows as visitors discover the Seven Mountains region. Senior services expand with the aging population.
Can I operate a home-based business in Mifflin County?
Yes, most Mifflin County municipalities permit home-based businesses with proper zoning permits. Rural townships typically have fewer restrictions than boroughs. Many successful businesses, especially in crafts and online services, operate from homes. Check with your specific municipality for local regulations.
How does the Amish community impact business in Mifflin County?
The Big Valley's three Amish groups significantly impact the economy through furniture making, construction, farming, and retail businesses. The Wednesday Belleville Sale draws thousands of visitors weekly. Amish-made products create tourism opportunities, and many English businesses partner with Amish craftsmen for specialty work.