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About Snyder County
The Heart of the Susquehanna Valley
Snyder County rests along the western banks of the Susquehanna River in central Pennsylvania, where 39,700 residents have built a community that balances agricultural heritage with modern manufacturing muscle. This is where Routes 11 and 15 intersect with small-town values - where you'll find Amish farmers selling produce next to advanced manufacturing facilities, and where Selinsgrove's historic downtown coexists with Susquehanna University's innovative energy.
A Surprising Economic Powerhouse
Don't let the rural setting fool you. Selinsgrove, our county seat, anchors a surprisingly diverse economy that punches above its weight. Wood-Mode, one of America's premier cabinet manufacturers, has called Kreamer home since 1942. Conestoga Wood Specialties operates massive facilities here. The county's 1,200+ businesses range from precision manufacturers to thriving Main Street shops, from healthcare providers to agricultural enterprises that feed the region.
Travel north to Middleburg and you'll discover a perfectly preserved county seat with local businesses serving the community for generations. Head south toward Port Trevorton and the river towns, where marinas and outdoor recreation businesses thrive on Susquehanna tourism. Throughout the county, family farms and Pennsylvania Dutch markets maintain traditions while embracing modern agricultural technology.
Why Businesses Choose Snyder County
The numbers tell the story: with unemployment at just 2.3% and median household income of $68,435, Snyder County offers a stable, skilled workforce without urban overhead costs. Commercial space runs 40-60% less than Harrisburg or State College. Our workers bring Pennsylvania Dutch work ethic combined with technical skills from Susquehanna University and nearby Penn State.
Manufacturing thrives here thanks to our central location and excellent highway access. Healthcare continues expanding with Evangelical Community Hospital leading the way. Agriculture remains strong with dairy farms, produce operations, and value-added food businesses. And small businesses flourish in an environment where relationships still matter and a handshake means something.
Living in Snyder County
This is authentic central Pennsylvania - where covered bridges span creeks, where church steeples punctuate the skyline, and where neighbors still know each other's names. The Susquehanna River provides endless recreation from boating to fishing. Shade Mountain offers hiking and hunting. The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area attracts nature lovers year-round.
Families love the safe communities, excellent schools, and the fact that a median home value of $205,500 actually gets you land and space. Susquehanna University brings cultural events, Division III athletics, and youthful energy to Selinsgrove. Annual events like the Selinsgrove Market Street Festival and Middleburg Community Days celebrate local traditions.
Strategic Central Pennsylvania Location
Snyder County's position in the heart of Pennsylvania provides surprising accessibility. Harrisburg lies just 50 miles south. State College is 45 miles northwest. Williamsport is 35 miles north. This central location means businesses can efficiently serve Pennsylvania's major markets while enjoying lower operating costs.
Routes 11 and 15 form the county's transportation backbone, connecting to Interstate 80 to the north and Interstate 81 to the east. Route 522 provides western access. This highway network makes Snyder County ideal for distribution and manufacturing operations serving the Mid-Atlantic region.
Connect with Snyder County Businesses
Whether you're searching for local services, exploring dining options, finding healthcare providers, or investigating business opportunities, our directory connects you with Snyder County's tight-knit business community. From Selinsgrove's university district to Middleburg's historic downtown, from major manufacturers to family farms, discover why Snyder County remains one of central Pennsylvania's best-kept business secrets.
Snyder County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
39,711
Median Age
40.5 years
Population Density
1 communities
Snyder County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$68,435
Poverty Rate
8.6%
Unemployment Rate
2.3%
Snyder County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$205,500
Median Rent
$890/mo
Owner Occupied
74%
Snyder County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Snyder County
What is the population of Snyder County?
As of 2023, Snyder County has a population of 39,711 residents. The county has maintained steady, sustainable growth while preserving its small-town character, with the population distributed across Selinsgrove, Middleburg, and numerous smaller communities along the Susquehanna River valley.
What are the major cities and towns in Snyder County?
The major communities include Selinsgrove (county's largest town and home to Susquehanna University), Middleburg (county seat), Shamokin Dam, Hummels Wharf, Kreamer, Beavertown, McClure, and Port Trevorton. The county comprises 14 townships and 4 boroughs with approximately 1,200 businesses serving the region.
How do I start a business in Snyder 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. Selinsgrove and Middleburg have specific zoning requirements. The Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce provides free guidance, and SCORE Susquehanna Valley offers mentoring for new entrepreneurs.
What are the major employers in Snyder County?
Major employers include Evangelical Community Hospital (1,800+ employees), Wood-Mode Inc. (custom cabinetry), Conestoga Wood Specialties, Susquehanna University, Global Parts/Selinsgrove Ford, Brookdale Senior Living, and numerous manufacturing firms. The county's diverse economy includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, and agriculture sectors.
What is the average commercial rent in Snyder County?
Commercial rental rates are highly competitive: Selinsgrove retail space averages $8-15/sq ft, Middleburg office space runs $7-12/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Harrisburg or State College markets, making Snyder County attractive for business expansion and startups.
What business incentives are available in Snyder County?
Snyder County offers Keystone Opportunity Zone benefits, LERTA tax abatements in designated areas, PA DCED grants for manufacturing and technology businesses, and workforce development programs through PA CareerLink Snyder County. The Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce helps businesses navigate available state and local incentive programs.
How far is Snyder County from major cities?
Snyder County enjoys central Pennsylvania accessibility: Harrisburg is 50 miles south (1 hour), State College is 45 miles northwest (50 minutes), Williamsport is 35 miles north (40 minutes), Lancaster is 75 miles southeast (1.5 hours), and Philadelphia is 130 miles southeast (2.5 hours). This provides access to major markets while maintaining rural affordability.
What highways run through Snyder County?
Major highways include US Route 11 (running north-south along the Susquehanna River), US Route 15 (major north-south corridor to I-80 and Maryland), US Route 522 (east-west connection), and PA Route 104. These routes provide excellent access to Interstate 80 (30 miles north) and Interstate 81 (35 miles east).
What is the workforce like in Snyder County?
Snyder County boasts a dedicated workforce with just 2.3% unemployment. The labor force combines Pennsylvania Dutch work ethic with modern skills. While 19.2% hold bachelor's degrees or higher, the county excels in skilled trades and manufacturing expertise. Susquehanna University provides educated talent, while the region's agricultural heritage ensures reliable, hardworking employees.
What languages are spoken in Snyder County?
English is the primary language, with Pennsylvania Dutch (German dialect) spoken in Plain communities including Old Order Amish and Mennonite populations. This creates unique business opportunities for those serving Plain communities, with many businesses offering Pennsylvania Dutch-speaking staff and culturally appropriate services.
Is Snyder County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, manufacturing is a cornerstone of Snyder County's economy with companies like Wood-Mode and Conestoga Wood Specialties leading the way. The county offers skilled workers, lower operating costs than urban areas, excellent highway access via Routes 11 and 15, and proximity to major markets. Wood products, metal fabrication, and food processing particularly thrive here.
What agricultural businesses thrive in Snyder County?
Snyder County maintains a strong agricultural sector with dairy farming, corn, soybeans, and produce operations. The county's fertile Susquehanna Valley soil supports diverse farming. Agritourism is growing with farm markets, u-pick operations, and seasonal attractions. Many Amish and Mennonite farms supply local markets and restaurants with organic produce.
How is the healthcare sector in Snyder County?
Healthcare is the county's largest employer with Evangelical Community Hospital serving as the regional medical center, employing 1,800+ people. The hospital's expansion has attracted medical practices, specialists, and support services. Healthcare businesses benefit from serving both local residents and patients from surrounding rural counties.
Where are the main commercial districts in Snyder County?
Key commercial areas include Selinsgrove's Market Street and Route 11/15 corridor (retail and dining hub), downtown Middleburg (government and professional services), Shamokin Dam's Route 11 strip (big box retail), and Monroe Township's industrial areas. Each district serves different business needs while maintaining small-town accessibility.
What is the sales tax in Snyder County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Snyder County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate, combined with lower property costs, makes Snyder County attractive for retail businesses compared to Maryland (6%) and New York (8%+).
Is Snyder County growing?
Snyder County maintains steady, sustainable growth focused on quality over quantity. The economy continues diversifying with new healthcare facilities, manufacturing expansions, and small business growth. Susquehanna University's expansion and downtown Selinsgrove's revitalization signal confidence in the county's future while preserving its rural character.
What is the cost of living in Snyder County?
Snyder County offers exceptional affordability with median home values at $205,500 and median household income of $68,435. The overall cost of living is 10-15% below the national average and 25-35% lower than Pennsylvania metro areas. This affordability attracts families and allows businesses to offer competitive wages while maintaining lower overhead.
Does Snyder County have public transportation?
rabbittransit provides limited fixed-route service in Selinsgrove and medical transportation throughout the county. However, most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The rural nature requires cars, but traffic is minimal and parking is plentiful and free in most areas, reducing transportation stress and costs.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Snyder County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local zoning permit from your municipality, health permit from PA Department of Agriculture, liquor license (if applicable) from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. Selinsgrove has additional requirements for downtown businesses. The process typically takes 6-10 weeks with lower fees than urban counties.
How do Snyder County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Snyder County's effective property tax rate averages 1.35%, competitive with Union County (1.42%) and lower than Northumberland (1.48%) but slightly higher than Mifflin County (1.28%). Combined with lower property values, actual tax bills are often lower than surrounding areas, benefiting both businesses and residents.
Are there co-working spaces in Snyder County?
While traditional co-working spaces are limited, Susquehanna University's Innovation Center offers entrepreneurial support, and several coffee shops in Selinsgrove provide informal co-working environments. The Degenstein Community Library offers meeting rooms and workspace. The lower cost of independent office space often makes dedicated rentals more feasible than in urban areas.
What banks offer small business loans in Snyder County?
Local lenders include Mifflinburg Bank & Trust, Northumberland National Bank, Service 1st Federal Credit Union, and Milton Savings Bank, along with national banks like M&T and PNC. These institutions understand local business needs and offer competitive rates. The Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce can connect businesses with appropriate lenders.
What role does Susquehanna University play in the local economy?
Susquehanna University significantly impacts Snyder County's economy as a major employer with 500+ staff, bringing 2,400+ students who support local businesses, and hosting cultural and athletic events that draw visitors. The university's business and entrepreneurship programs provide talent and innovation to local companies while its facilities serve as community resources.
How does the Susquehanna River impact business in Snyder County?
The Susquehanna River defines Snyder County's eastern border, supporting recreation businesses including marinas, boat dealers, fishing guides, and riverfront restaurants. The river attracts tourists for fishing, boating, and scenic beauty, while also providing water resources for agriculture and industry. Riverfront properties command premium values for commercial development.
Can I operate a home-based business in Snyder County?
Yes, most Snyder County municipalities permit home-based businesses with proper registration. Requirements vary but typically limit signage, customer traffic, and employees. Rural townships are generally more flexible than boroughs like Selinsgrove or Middleburg. The county's rural character and strong internet infrastructure make it ideal for remote work and online businesses.