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About Perry County
Where Pennsylvania's Heart Beats Strong
Perry County stretches across central Pennsylvania's ridge-and-valley landscape, where the Susquehanna River curves through ancient mountains and 46,000 residents have built a community that values independence, hard work, and natural beauty. This is where you'll find more covered bridges than traffic lights, where the Appalachian Trail crosses pristine ridgelines, and where businesses thrive on personal relationships rather than corporate bureaucracy.
A Different Kind of Business Environment
New Bloomfield, our county seat, anchors a network of small towns where handshake deals still matter and your business neighbor might also be your actual neighbor. From Marysville along the Susquehanna to Newport's historic downtown, from Duncannon's river heritage to Millerstown's farming roots, Perry County's businesses reflect genuine small-town American enterprise.
This isn't about massive corporations or industrial parks - it's about family-owned shops that have served generations, contractors who know every road in the county, and innovative entrepreneurs who chose quality of life over city stress. Manufacturing here means precision machine shops and custom woodworking. Retail means knowing your customers by name. Agriculture means working land that's been in families for centuries.
Why Businesses Choose Perry County
The economics are compelling: commercial property costs 40-60% less than Harrisburg metro areas. Your employees can actually afford homes here - the median price is $222,800. The 3.2% unemployment rate means a stable, dedicated workforce that values steady employment over job-hopping. And with median household income at $78,824, residents have real purchasing power.
But it's more than numbers. Perry County offers something increasingly rare: the ability to build a business within a genuine community. No traffic jams eating into productivity. No urban crime concerns. No anonymous existence in a corporate maze. Just 920 square miles of opportunity where success is measured in relationships as much as revenue.
Life in Perry County
This is Pennsylvania as it used to be - and still can be. Little Buffalo State Park offers swimming and hiking. The Susquehanna River provides world-class fishing and boating. Five historic covered bridges dot the countryside. The Appalachian Trail traverses our northern ridges, bringing hikers from around the world through tiny trail towns.
Families love the safe neighborhoods, small class sizes, and the fact that kids can still ride bikes to the general store. Outdoor enthusiasts discover endless hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities. History buffs explore Civil War sites and canal-era ruins. And everyone appreciates being able to see the stars at night.
Strategic Central Location
Don't mistake rural for remote. Perry County sits just 20 miles northwest of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's capital. Route 11/15 follows the Susquehanna River, connecting to major interstates. Route 322 crosses east-west through the county. You're 90 miles from Baltimore, 120 miles from Philadelphia, and 180 miles from Washington, D.C. - close enough for business, far enough to escape the chaos.
This location provides perfect balance: access to major markets without major market costs. Many residents commute to Harrisburg or Carlisle for work while enjoying Perry County's lower costs and higher quality of life. Businesses benefit from easy access to suppliers and customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Discover Perry County Businesses
Whether you're seeking local contractors, exploring farm-fresh markets, finding healthcare providers, or looking to start your own venture, our directory connects you with Perry County's close-knit business community. From Susquehanna River towns to mountain villages, from generational farms to modern service businesses, discover why Perry County remains one of Pennsylvania's best-kept secrets for living and doing business.
Perry County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
45,988
Median Age
43.8 years
Population Density
1 communities
Perry County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$78,824
Poverty Rate
8%
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
Perry County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$222,800
Median Rent
$838/mo
Owner Occupied
81%
Perry County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Perry County
What is the population of Perry County?
As of 2023, Perry County has a population of 45,988 residents, making it one of Pennsylvania's smaller counties by population. The county has grown modestly over the past decade, maintaining its rural character while attracting residents seeking affordable housing and a quieter lifestyle outside the Harrisburg metro area.
What are the major cities and towns in Perry County?
The largest communities include New Bloomfield (county seat), Marysville (the most populous borough with about 2,500 residents), Newport, Duncannon, and Millerstown. The county consists of 30 municipalities including boroughs and townships, with most communities having populations under 2,000, maintaining the county's rural, small-town character.
How do I start a business in Perry County?
Starting a business in Perry County requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your municipality. New Bloomfield and other boroughs may require business licenses. The Perry County Economic Development Authority offers guidance, and the Harrisburg SCORE chapter provides free mentoring for new businesses.
What are the major employers in Perry County?
Major employers include the Carson Long Military Institute, Perry County government and school districts, Pennsy Supply, various manufacturing companies, and healthcare facilities. Many residents also commute to employers in nearby Harrisburg, Carlisle, and Mechanicsburg. The county economy relies heavily on small businesses, agriculture, and service industries.
What is the average commercial rent in Perry County?
Commercial rental rates in Perry County are significantly lower than metro areas, typically ranging from $6-12 per square foot for retail space and $4-8 per square foot for office space. Industrial and warehouse space can be found for $3-6 per square foot. These rates are 40-60% lower than Harrisburg metro areas, making Perry County attractive for cost-conscious businesses.
What business incentives are available in Perry County?
Perry County offers access to Pennsylvania state programs including Keystone Opportunity Zones, PA Industrial Development Authority loans, and workforce development grants. The Perry County Economic Development Authority provides assistance with site selection, financing connections, and navigating local regulations. The county's lower costs serve as a natural incentive for business development.
How far is Perry County from major cities?
Perry County is strategically located 20 miles northwest of Harrisburg (30 minutes), 40 miles from Carlisle (45 minutes), 90 miles from Baltimore (1.5 hours), 120 miles from Philadelphia (2 hours), and 180 miles from Washington, D.C. (3 hours). This provides excellent access to major markets while maintaining rural affordability and quality of life.
What highways run through Perry County?
Major routes include US Route 11/15 (following the Susquehanna River), US Route 322 (east-west through the county), PA Route 34 (north-south through western Perry County), and PA Route 849 (scenic route through the center). While there are no interstates directly through the county, I-81 is easily accessible via Routes 11/15, providing connections throughout the Eastern seaboard.
What is the workforce like in Perry County?
Perry County has a workforce characterized by strong work ethic, low 3.2% unemployment, and stability. While only 17.9% hold bachelor's degrees or higher, the workforce excels in skilled trades, manufacturing, and agriculture. Many residents commute to Harrisburg-area employers, while others work for local businesses, farms, and service industries within the county.
What languages are spoken in Perry County?
English is the predominant language in Perry County, with over 95% of residents speaking English at home. The county has a small but growing Spanish-speaking population. Some Pennsylvania Dutch/German heritage remains in certain communities, though it's primarily cultural rather than linguistic. Most businesses operate in English only.
Is Perry County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, Perry County offers advantages for small to medium manufacturing operations including lower property costs, available industrial sites, skilled workforce in trades, and easy access to East Coast markets via nearby interstates. The county particularly suits specialty manufacturers, custom fabrication shops, and businesses needing affordable space without heavy industrial infrastructure requirements.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Perry County?
Perry County maintains a strong agricultural sector with dairy farms, beef cattle operations, corn and soybean production, and hay farming. Agritourism is growing with farm markets, u-pick operations, and seasonal attractions. The county also supports equestrian businesses, small-scale organic farms, and specialty crop operations serving regional farmers' markets.
How is the healthcare sector in Perry County?
Healthcare in Perry County includes several medical practices, dental offices, and specialty clinics, though residents often travel to Carlisle or Harrisburg for hospital services. The nearest major hospitals are 20-30 minutes away. This creates opportunities for home health services, urgent care facilities, and specialty practices serving the aging rural population.
Where are the main commercial districts in Perry County?
Main commercial areas include downtown Newport (antiques and local shops), New Bloomfield's courthouse square area, Marysville's business district near the river, and Duncannon's historic downtown. Most commercial activity centers around the borough main streets and along Routes 11/15 and 322. The county lacks major shopping centers, creating opportunities for local businesses.
What is the sales tax in Perry County?
Pennsylvania's 6% state sales tax applies throughout Perry County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and prescription medications are tax-exempt. This competitive rate, combined with no local add-ons, benefits both retailers and consumers compared to neighboring Maryland's higher rates.
Is Perry County growing?
Perry County experiences steady, modest growth while maintaining its rural character. Population has increased gradually, with growth concentrated in eastern townships closer to Harrisburg. New residential developments are appearing in Marysville and Penn Township. The county balances growth with preserving farmland and natural areas through planning and zoning.
What is the cost of living in Perry County?
Perry County offers an affordable cost of living with median home values at $222,800 and median household income at $78,824. Overall living costs are 10-15% below the national average and 20-30% lower than Harrisburg metro. Lower property taxes, affordable housing, and reduced commuting costs make it attractive for families and retirees.
Does Perry County have public transportation?
Perry County has limited public transportation with rabbittransit providing some demand-response service for seniors and disabled residents. Most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The county's rural nature makes public transit challenging, but the lack of traffic congestion means easy driving throughout the area.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Perry County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit from your municipality, health permit from the PA Department of Agriculture (Perry County doesn't have its own health department), liquor license from PLCB if serving alcohol, and fire safety inspection. The process typically takes 2-3 months with lower fees than urban counties.
How do Perry County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Perry County's average effective property tax rate is approximately 1.3%, lower than Cumberland County (1.4%) and Dauphin County (1.5%), but higher than Juniata County (1.1%). Combined with lower property values, actual tax bills are often significantly less than neighboring counties, making it attractive for businesses and homeowners.
Are there co-working spaces in Perry County?
Perry County has limited formal co-working spaces, with most remote workers using home offices or local coffee shops with WiFi. Some entrepreneurs are exploring rural co-working concepts. The proximity to Harrisburg (20 miles) provides access to urban co-working facilities when needed, while enjoying Perry County's lower living costs.
What banks offer small business loans in Perry County?
Local banks serving Perry County businesses include Members 1st Federal Credit Union, Mid Penn Bank, Orrstown Bank, and First National Bank of Mifflintown. These community banks understand local business needs and offer SBA loans, commercial mortgages, and lines of credit. The Harrisburg SCORE chapter provides free assistance with loan applications.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Perry County?
Growing sectors include home services and contracting (serving new residents), agritourism and outdoor recreation businesses, e-commerce businesses leveraging rural low costs, healthcare services for aging population, and professional services supporting remote work trends. The county also sees growth in specialty manufacturing and artisan businesses.
Can I operate a home-based business in Perry County?
Yes, Perry County's rural townships generally allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary by municipality but are typically less restrictive than urban areas. Many townships permit home offices, online businesses, and small-scale operations that don't generate excessive traffic or noise. Check with your specific municipality for local zoning regulations.
What outdoor recreation businesses succeed in Perry County?
Perry County's natural assets support successful outdoor recreation businesses including fishing guides on the Susquehanna River, hunting outfitters, campgrounds, canoe/kayak rentals, Appalachian Trail services, and adventure tourism. Little Buffalo State Park and numerous state game lands create opportunities for businesses serving outdoor enthusiasts year-round.