Find local businesses in Somerset County, PA.

Browse 0+ businesses across 0 communities in Somerset County. Find reviews, hours, contact info, and discover local services, restaurants, and shops.

0+
Businesses
0
Communities

Featured businesses in Somerset County

Be the first featured business in Somerset County!

Get Featured

Own a business in Somerset County?

Get your business found by local customers across Somerset County. List your business for free and start connecting with customers in your community.

Learn More
Local Businesses
0+
Communities
0
Cost to list
Free
Support local
✓ Yes!

Discover Things to Do in Somerset County

Explore top restaurants, attractions, entertainment, and outdoor activities

Explore Now

Browse Somerset County Businesses by City

Explore businesses in Somerset County's cities and towns

No cities found for this county.

Browse Somerset County Businesses by Category

Find businesses by type across Somerset County

No categories found for this county.

About Somerset County

Where Mountains Shape Opportunity

Somerset County rises from the Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania, where 73,000 residents have built communities among ridges, valleys, and some of the state's highest peaks. This is Pennsylvania's rooftop - home to Mount Davis, the state's highest point at 3,213 feet - where businesses thrive on outdoor recreation, agriculture, and a quality of life that draws visitors year-round.

A Diverse Economic Landscape

Somerset, our county seat, anchors a network of communities that balance tradition with opportunity. The town's 6,200 residents support a downtown where local shops, professional services, and family restaurants serve both locals and the thousands who visit for festivals and outdoor adventures. Manufacturing still provides the backbone - companies like Riggs Industries and Somerset Welding & Steel have operated here for generations, while newer players in wind energy and natural gas have brought fresh investment.

Travel the county and you'll discover distinct economic centers: Meyersdale's renewable energy corridor with wind farms dotting the ridges, Rockwood's tourism economy centered on the Great Allegheny Passage trail, and Berlin's thriving Amish business community. Each town contributes to an economy that's surprisingly diverse for rural Pennsylvania.

Why Businesses Choose Somerset

The numbers tell a compelling story: commercial real estate costs 60-70% less than Pittsburgh metro areas. A motivated workforce combines traditional skills with surprising tech-savviness - many work remotely for urban companies while enjoying rural life. The median home value of $130,600 means your employees can actually afford to live here, reducing turnover and building loyalty.

Tourism drives significant opportunity. Seven Springs Mountain Resort alone employs over 1,500 people seasonally and generates millions in visitor spending. The Great Allegheny Passage brings 1 million trail users annually through our communities. Flight 93 National Memorial draws 400,000 visitors each year. These tourists need lodging, dining, equipment, and services - creating steady demand for local businesses.

Life in the Laurel Highlands

This is authentic Appalachian Pennsylvania - where maple syrup producers tap trees each spring, where Amish buggies share roads with pickup trucks, where Friday night football fills stadiums and Saturday mornings fill diners. The landscape defines life here: ski slopes and mountain bike trails, pristine lakes and rushing streams, state parks and game lands covering thousands of acres.

Families appreciate the safe communities, where crime rates run far below state averages. Schools may be smaller, but they're tight-knit, with graduation rates exceeding state averages. And while we're rural, we're not isolated - high-speed internet reaches most communities, enabling remote work and digital businesses.

Strategic Location in Western Pennsylvania

Somerset County sits at the crossroads of major corridors. Pittsburgh is 75 miles northwest via the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Maryland's border is just 10 miles south. Johnstown is 35 miles north. Cumberland, Maryland, is 30 miles southeast. This position makes Somerset ideal for businesses serving the broader region while maintaining lower operating costs.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-70/76) provides our main artery, with interchanges at Somerset, Donegal, and New Stanton. Route 219 runs north-south through the county, connecting to Maryland and Interstate 68. These highways move products, bring tourists, and connect our businesses to major markets.

Discover Somerset County Businesses

Whether you're seeking outdoor outfitters for your next adventure, finding skilled contractors for construction projects, exploring farm-fresh products, or researching business opportunities in tourism and hospitality, our directory connects you with Somerset County's entrepreneurial community. From Somerset's professional services to Berlin's craft shops, from manufacturing facilities to maple farms, discover what makes Somerset County a unique place to do business in Pennsylvania's highlands.

Somerset County Demographics & Statistics

Population Statistics (2023)

Total Population

73,255

Median Age

47 years

Population Density

0 communities

Somerset County Economic Overview

Median Household Income

$59,378

Poverty Rate

11.2%

Unemployment Rate

5.3%

Somerset County Housing Market

Median Home Value

$130,600

Median Rent

$749/mo

Owner Occupied

80%

Somerset County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)

Bachelor's Degree6,080
Master's Degree2,578
Professional Degree459
Doctorate378

Frequently Asked Questions About Somerset County

What is the population of Somerset County?

As of 2023, Somerset County has a population of approximately 73,255 residents, making it one of Pennsylvania's more rural counties. The population has declined about 8% since 2010, but this has created opportunities for businesses to serve an established, stable community with deep local roots.

What are the major cities and towns in Somerset County?

The largest communities include Somerset (county seat) with 6,200 residents, Meyersdale (2,100), Windber (3,900), Berlin (2,000), and Rockwood (850). The county comprises 55 municipalities including 13 boroughs and 42 townships, each with distinct character and business opportunities.

How do I start a business in Somerset 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. Somerset Borough requires a business license, while township requirements vary. The Somerset County Chamber of Commerce provides free guidance, and the Small Business Development Center at Saint Francis University offers counseling.

What are the major employers in Somerset County?

Major employers include Somerset Hospital (1,200+ employees), Seven Springs Mountain Resort (1,500+ seasonal), Riggs Industries, Somerset Trust Company, Fleetwood RV, and various state correctional institutions. The county also has significant employment in agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy sectors.

What is the average commercial rent in Somerset County?

Commercial rental rates are highly competitive: downtown Somerset office space averages $8-12/sq ft, retail spaces run $10-15/sq ft, and industrial/warehouse space costs $4-8/sq ft. These rates are 60-70% lower than Pittsburgh metro areas, making Somerset County extremely affordable for business operations.

What business incentives are available in Somerset County?

Somerset County offers KOZ (Keystone Opportunity Zone) tax benefits, LERTA tax abatements, low-interest loans through the Somerset County Economic Development Council, and workforce development grants. The county's Enterprise Zone provides additional tax credits for businesses creating jobs.

How far is Somerset County from major cities?

Somerset is strategically located 75 miles from Pittsburgh (1.5 hours via PA Turnpike), 150 miles from Washington DC (2.5 hours), 35 miles from Johnstown (45 minutes), and 30 miles from Cumberland, MD (35 minutes). This provides access to major markets while maintaining rural advantages.

What highways run through Somerset County?

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-70/76) crosses the county east-west with three interchanges. US Route 219 provides north-south access connecting to Maryland and I-68. US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) offers an alternative east-west route. State Routes 281, 31, and 160 connect smaller communities.

What is the workforce like in Somerset County?

Somerset County has a workforce of approximately 35,000 with strong manufacturing skills and agricultural knowledge. The median age is 46, providing experienced, stable workers. While only 17.3% have bachelor's degrees, the workforce excels in technical skills, trades, and practical experience valued by employers.

What languages are spoken in Somerset County?

English predominates, with Pennsylvania Dutch/German spoken in Plain communities around Berlin and Meyersdale. The county has growing Amish and Mennonite populations who are bilingual. Some businesses, especially in crafts and agriculture, benefit from Pennsylvania Dutch language skills.

Is Somerset County good for manufacturing businesses?

Yes, manufacturing remains strong with lower labor costs than urban areas, available industrial sites, and a skilled workforce. The county has successful manufacturers in steel fabrication, wood products, and food processing. Access to the PA Turnpike and lower overhead costs make it attractive for light manufacturing.

What agricultural businesses thrive in Somerset County?

Somerset County excels in dairy farming (150+ dairy farms), maple syrup production (Pennsylvania's #1 producer), beef cattle, and hay production. Agritourism is growing with farm tours, corn mazes, and farm-to-table operations. The county's 1,200+ farms cover 200,000 acres supporting diverse agricultural businesses.

How is the tourism and recreation sector in Somerset County?

Tourism is vital with Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Hidden Valley Resort, Flight 93 National Memorial, and the Great Allegheny Passage trail attracting over 2 million visitors annually. This creates strong demand for lodging, restaurants, outdoor outfitters, and recreational services, supporting hundreds of businesses.

Where are the main commercial districts in Somerset County?

Key commercial areas include downtown Somerset (professional services and retail), the Route 219 corridor (big box retail and restaurants), Berlin's historic downtown (Amish crafts and antiques), and the Seven Springs area (tourism and hospitality). Each district serves different market segments.

What is the sales tax in Somerset County?

Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Somerset County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits retail businesses compared to Maryland (6%) and some other neighboring states.

Is Somerset County growing economically?

While population has declined slightly, economic diversification is strengthening. Wind energy development has brought millions in investment, outdoor recreation continues expanding, and remote work enables new residents to relocate here. The county added 50+ new businesses in the past two years despite population trends.

What is the cost of living in Somerset County?

Somerset County offers exceptional affordability with median home values at $130,600 and median household income at $59,378. Overall cost of living is 15-20% below the national average and 30-40% lower than Pittsburgh metro, allowing businesses to offer competitive wages while employees maintain good quality of life.

Does Somerset County have public transportation?

Public transportation is limited to demand-response services through the Somerset County Transportation System, primarily serving seniors and disabled residents. Most residents and businesses rely on personal vehicles. The county is 90 minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport.

What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Somerset County?

Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit, health permit from Somerset County Health Department (or PA Department of Agriculture), liquor license from PLCB if applicable, and fire safety inspection. The process typically takes 2-3 months. Somerset Borough has additional requirements.

How do Somerset County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?

Somerset County's average effective property tax rate is 1.31%, lower than Cambria (1.45%) and Westmoreland (1.38%) but higher than Bedford (1.15%). Combined with low property values, actual tax bills are among Pennsylvania's lowest, benefiting businesses and property owners.

Are there co-working spaces in Somerset County?

Co-working options are limited but growing. The Uptown Works space in Somerset offers shared offices, and several coffee shops provide informal co-working environments. Some businesses share space in downtown Somerset and Berlin. The Somerset County Chamber helps connect businesses seeking shared facilities.

What banks offer small business loans in Somerset County?

Major lenders include Somerset Trust Company (local leader), First National Bank of Pennsylvania, Citizens Bank, and area credit unions. The Somerset County Economic Development Council offers low-interest loans and connects businesses with state programs. USDA Rural Development loans are also available.

What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Somerset County?

Renewable energy (wind and solar), outdoor recreation services, agritourism, senior care services, and remote professional services show strong growth. The craft beverage industry is emerging with breweries and distilleries. Healthcare services continue expanding to serve the aging population.

Can I operate a home-based business in Somerset County?

Yes, most Somerset County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Rural townships typically have fewer restrictions than boroughs. Requirements vary but usually limit signage, customer traffic, and employees. Check with your specific municipality for local zoning regulations.

How does Somerset County's elevation affect businesses?

Somerset County's high elevation (2,000-3,213 feet) creates unique conditions: longer winters benefit ski resorts but increase heating costs, cooler summers attract tourists escaping heat, and the climate supports maple syrup production. Construction seasons are shorter, but the elevation enables wind energy development on ridgetops.

Popular Searches in Somerset County