Bedford County, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
47,513
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,992/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,567
0.0% year-over-year change

Bedford County population

How many people live in Bedford County

Bedford County is home to 47,513 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Bedford County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
47,513
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
23,727
Female
50.1%
23,786
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,727 49.9% 0.2%
Female 23,786 50.1% -0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Bedford County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.2% of the population, while another 28.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
21.2%
45 to 64
28.4%
Over 65
24%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,564 15.9% -0.1%
15 to 24 4,955 10.4% -1.3%
25 to 44 10,095 21.2% 1.0%
45 to 64 13,508 28.4% -1.9%
Over 65 11,391 24% 2.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Bedford County, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 46,667 98.2% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 591 1.2% 8.4%
Non-citizens 255 0.5% 28.1%
Racial breakdown
White
95.6%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.7%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 45,397 95.6%
Black or African American 342 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 31 0.1%
Asian 247 0.5%
Two or more races 1,301 2.7%
Other 195 0.4%

Households in Bedford County

A peek inside Bedford County households

Bedford County has 19,750 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.4% are families, while the remaining 35.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,750
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,026
Family households
12,724
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,026 35.6% 1.0%
Family households 12,724 64.4% -0.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Bedford County

The housing landscape of Bedford County

Bedford County's housing consists of 23,567 units, with 73.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 15.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,567
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,263 73.2%
1 unit, attached 468 2%
2 units 460 2%
3 or 4 units 763 3.2%
5 to 9 units 314 1.3%
10 to 19 units 282 1.2%
20 to 49 units 240 1%
50 or more units 183 0.8%
Mobile home 3,587 15.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 7 0%
Homes built since 2020
111
30.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bedford County

In Bedford County, the median construction year is 1971. About 25.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,054 25.7% -3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,062 4.5% 0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,151 9.1% -3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,031 8.6% 3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,321 14.1% 1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,475 10.5% 0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,797 11.9% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,358 10% 2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,207 5.1% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 111 0.5% 30.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Bedford County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,750 occupied housing units in Bedford County, 77.5% are owner-occupied, while 22.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,750
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,435
Owner occupied
15,315
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,435 22.5% 2.5%
Owner occupied 15,315 77.5% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
16.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Bedford County housing costs

Housing costs in Bedford County come to a median of $759 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $784.

Median housing costs per month
$759/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Bedford County
$784/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Bedford County

Bedford County education at a glance

About 54.8% of the population in Bedford County went to high school, while 16% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 10.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,249 3.3% -2.4%
High school diploma 20,972 54.8% -0.8%
College diploma 6,138 16% 1.1%
Associate degree 3,966 10.4% 7.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,956 10.3% 5.5%
Graduate degree 1,998 5.2% -12.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Bedford County

How much people earn in Bedford County

The average annual household income in Bedford County was $77,365 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,992, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bedford County
$77,365/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bedford County
$59,992/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

Bedford County income by age

In Bedford County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,773. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,809 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,167, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,645 in earnings. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,167 -10.7%
25 - 44 $79,773 4.3%
45 - 64 $79,809 -1.2%
Over 65 $38,645 0.3%
Above poverty level
41,232
Below poverty level
5,384
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 41,232 88.4% -0.3%
Below poverty level 5,384 11.6% 5.7%

Employment in Bedford County

Workforce and job types in Bedford County

The job market in Bedford County is powered by 21,740 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,740
-2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
14,344
Blue collar
7,396
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,344 66% -1.1%
Blue collar 7,396 34% -4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,013 9.3% -1.1%
Private companies 15,055 69.2% -4.1%
Governmental workers 2,497 11.5% -6.7%
Not for profit companies 2,175 10% 19.4%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-8.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bedford County stands at 3.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Bedford County

How people get around in Bedford County

Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 19,222 89.4% -2.5%
Taxicab 6 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 87 0.4% -37.9%
Subway or elevated 3 0% N/A
Motorcycle 6 0% 20.0%
Bicycle 73 0.3% -22.3%
Walk 371 1.7% -20.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Bedford County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
15521 1,712 684 $53,947 $69,329
15522 11,111 5,064 $57,029 $75,695
15533 1,222 503 $49,570 $66,848
15534 884 403 $49,191 $71,424
15535 1,994 787 $57,212 $74,710
15537 8,083 3,378 $62,538 $81,572
15539 158 110 $45,893 $41,057
15545 2,562 1,058 $56,757 $71,341
15550 1,658 719 $53,750 $71,112
15554 2,726 1,172 $50,500 $81,313

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FAQs about Bedford County demographics 

What is the total population of Bedford County?

Bedford County has a total population of 47,513 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bedford County?

The gender ratio in Bedford County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (23,727 residents)
  • 50.1% females (23,786 residents)

What is the median age in Bedford County?

The median age in Bedford County is 47.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bedford County?

The age distribution in Bedford County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (7,564 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (4,955 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.2% (10,095 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.4% (13,508 residents)
  • Over 65: 24% (11,391 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bedford County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bedford County is as follows:
  • White: 95.6% (45,397 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (342 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (31 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (247 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.7% (1,301 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (195 residents)

What percentage of the population in Bedford County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Bedford County.

How many housing units are there in Bedford County?

There are 23,567 housing units in Bedford County, reflecting a 0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Bedford County and what is the average household size?

Bedford County has a total of 19,750 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bedford County?

Bedford County has a median household income of $59,992, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Bedford County?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Bedford County, with a workforce of 21,740 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66% (14,344 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34% (7,396 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (2,013 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (15,055 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (2,497 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (2,175 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025