Shippensburg, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,620
-3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,503/yr
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,936
-1.7% year-over-year change

Shippensburg population

How many people live in Shippensburg

Shippensburg is home to 5,620 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Shippensburg locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
5,620
-3.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
2,897
Female
48.4%
2,723
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,897 51.6% -5.8%
Female 2,723 48.4% -0.4%
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 Shippensburg is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.9% of the population, while another 13.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
35.9%
45 to 64
13.6%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 882 15.7% 9.7%
15 to 24 756 13.4% -31.1%
25 to 44 2,017 35.9% 5.8%
45 to 64 764 13.6% -14.3%
Over 65 1,201 21.4% 8.0%
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 Shippensburg, 96.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,399 96.1% -2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 155 2.8% -29.2%
Non-citizens 66 1.2% 24.5%
Racial breakdown
White
92.3%
Black or African American
3.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 5,189 92.3%
Black or African American 212 3.8%
Two or more races 219 3.9%

Households in Shippensburg

A peek inside Shippensburg households

Shippensburg has 2,791 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 37.6% are families, while the remaining 62.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,791
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,741
Family households
1,050
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,741 62.4% 6.0%
Family households 1,050 37.6% -4.6%
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 Shippensburg

The housing landscape of Shippensburg

Shippensburg's housing consists of 2,936 units, with 44.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,936
-1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,297 44.2%
1 unit, attached 259 8.8%
2 units 345 11.8%
3 or 4 units 354 12.1%
5 to 9 units 168 5.7%
10 to 19 units 198 6.7%
20 to 49 units 246 8.4%
50 or more units 69 2.4%
Homes built since 2020
23
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shippensburg

In Shippensburg, the median construction year is 1953. About 27.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 20.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 804 27.4% -13.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 595 20.3% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 238 8.1% -9.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 408 13.9% 29.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 438 14.9% 4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 87 3% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 232 7.9% 82.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 76 2.6% -57.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 35 1.2% -2.8%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.8% N/A
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.

Shippensburg occupancy rates

Out of the 2,791 occupied housing units in Shippensburg, 44.2% are owner-occupied, while 55.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,791
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,557
Owner occupied
1,234
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,557 55.8% 6.9%
Owner occupied 1,234 44.2% -4.1%
Unoccupied housing units
4.9%
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.

Shippensburg housing costs

Housing costs in Shippensburg come to a median of $893 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $891.

Median housing costs per month
$893/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 Shippensburg
$891/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 Shippensburg

Shippensburg education at a glance

About 45.8% of the population in Shippensburg went to high school, while 14.2% pursued college studies. Another 4.5% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 113 2.5% -17.5%
High school diploma 2,043 45.8% -3.4%
College diploma 634 14.2% -20.6%
Associate degree 199 4.5% -26.0%
Bachelor's degree 749 16.8% -2.2%
Graduate degree 722 16.2% 18.4%
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 Shippensburg

How much people earn in Shippensburg

The average annual household income in Shippensburg was $68,046 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,503, reflecting a -1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shippensburg
$68,046/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shippensburg
$51,503/year
-1.6% year-over-year change

Shippensburg income by age

In Shippensburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,061. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,333 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,554, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $19,261 in earnings. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,554 N/A
25 - 44 $75,061 3.4%
45 - 64 $57,333 N/A
Over 65 $19,261 -5.2%
Above poverty level
4,827
Below poverty level
601
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,827 88.9% -3.7%
Below poverty level 601 11.1% -10.2%

Average renter income in Shippensburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Shippensburg, their median household income was $47,910 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 22.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,910
Rent-to-income ratio
22.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Shippensburg

Workforce and job types in Shippensburg

The job market in Shippensburg is powered by 2,747 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.6% run their own businesses, 68.4% are employed by private companies, and 22.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,747
-5.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,847
Blue collar
900
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,847 67.2% -5.7%
Blue collar 900 32.8% -5.6%
Employer type
Self employees
3.6%
Private companies
68.4%
Governmental workers
22.4%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 98 3.6% -21.6%
Private companies 1,878 68.4% -1.8%
Governmental workers 616 22.4% 0.0%
Not for profit companies 155 5.6% -39.9%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-11.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shippensburg 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 Shippensburg

How people get around in Shippensburg

Commuting methods vary: 71.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14.4% 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 1,934 71.9% -14.7%
Taxicab 55 2% N/A
Bicycle 35 1.3% 6.1%
Walk 388 14.4% 42.1%
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 Shippensburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17257 29,204 10,786 $71,181 $92,447

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FAQs about Shippensburg demographics 

What is the total population of Shippensburg?

Shippensburg has a total population of 5,620 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 -3.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Shippensburg?

The gender ratio in Shippensburg is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (2,897 residents)
  • 48.4% females (2,723 residents)

What is the median age in Shippensburg?

The median age in Shippensburg is 34.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Shippensburg?

The age distribution in Shippensburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (882 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (756 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.9% (2,017 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 13.6% (764 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (1,201 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shippensburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shippensburg is as follows:
  • White: 92.3% (5,189 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.8% (212 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (219 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.1% of the population in Shippensburg.

How many housing units are there in Shippensburg?

There are 2,936 housing units in Shippensburg, reflecting a -1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Shippensburg has a total of 2,791 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shippensburg?

Shippensburg has a median household income of $51,503, representing a -1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Shippensburg?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Shippensburg, with a workforce of 2,747 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.2% (1,847 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.8% (900 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.6% (98 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.4% (1,878 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.4% (616 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (155 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