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

Total population
42,456
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,404/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,205
0.3% year-over-year change

Union County population

How many people live in Union County

Union County is home to 42,456 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.9% of Union County locals are male, and 46.1% are female.

Total population
42,456
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.9%
22,866
Female
46.1%
19,590
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,866 53.9% -0.3%
Female 19,590 46.1% -0.3%
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 Union County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.1% are children under 15, then 17.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
17.2%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,994 14.1% -0.8%
15 to 24 7,312 17.2% -0.7%
25 to 44 10,315 24.3% -0.8%
45 to 64 10,396 24.5% -0.8%
Over 65 8,439 19.9% 1.9%
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 Union County, 95% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.6% of locals are Caucasian, 6% are African American and 2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 40,336 95% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 990 2.3% 5.3%
Non-citizens 1,130 2.7% 0.6%
Racial breakdown
White
88.6%
Black or African American
6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 37,633 88.6%
Black or African American 2,526 6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 58 0.1%
Asian 846 2%
Two or more races 971 2.3%
Other 422 1%

Households in Union County

A peek inside Union County households

Union County has 14,546 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.8% are families, while the remaining 33.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,546
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,832
Family households
9,714
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,832 33.2% -0.8%
Family households 9,714 66.8% 3.0%
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 Union County

The housing landscape of Union County

Union County's housing consists of 16,205 units, with 71.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.7% 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 8.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,205
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,650 71.9%
1 unit, attached 926 5.7%
2 units 692 4.3%
3 or 4 units 391 2.4%
5 to 9 units 549 3.4%
10 to 19 units 289 1.8%
20 to 49 units 232 1.4%
50 or more units 114 0.7%
Mobile home 1,334 8.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 28 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
128
357.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Union County

In Union County, the median construction year is 1974. About 23.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% 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 3,817 23.6% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 804 5% -17.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,323 8.2% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,255 7.7% 3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,261 14% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,998 12.3% 2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,354 14.5% 2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,501 9.3% 6.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 764 4.7% -4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 128 0.8% 357.1%
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.

Union County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,546 occupied housing units in Union County, 72.3% are owner-occupied, while 27.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,546
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,026
Owner occupied
10,520
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,026 27.7% -1.4%
Owner occupied 10,520 72.3% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
10.2%
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.

Union County housing costs

Housing costs in Union County come to a median of $1,012 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $974.

Median housing costs per month
$1,012/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 Union County
$974/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 Union County

Union County education at a glance

About 45.6% of the population in Union County went to high school, while 20.5% pursued college studies. Another 6.9% earned an associate degree and 12.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,556 4.4% 15.0%
High school diploma 16,009 45.6% -2.9%
College diploma 7,202 20.5% 2.6%
Associate degree 2,409 6.9% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,360 12.4% -0.5%
Graduate degree 3,550 10.1% 0.8%
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 Union County

How much people earn in Union County

The average annual household income in Union County was $105,957 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,404, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Union County
$105,957/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Union County
$76,404/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Union County income by age

In Union County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,510. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,168 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,500, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,535 in earnings. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,500 4.0%
25 - 44 $96,510 2.3%
45 - 64 $96,168 -0.5%
Over 65 $51,535 4.6%
Above poverty level
30,464
Below poverty level
2,990
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,464 91.1% 0.0%
Below poverty level 2,990 8.9% -7.8%

Employment in Union County

Workforce and job types in Union County

The job market in Union County is powered by 17,425 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.9% run their own businesses, 50.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,425
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
13,837
Blue collar
3,588
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,837 79.4% 0.7%
Blue collar 3,588 20.6% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.9%
Private companies
50.8%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
24.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,241 12.9% 15.6%
Private companies 8,845 50.8% -6.0%
Governmental workers 2,028 11.6% -2.5%
Not for profit companies 4,311 24.7% 9.5%
Unemployment rate
2.2%
-5.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Union County stands at 2.2%, 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 Union County

How people get around in Union County

In Union County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,089 76.6% -3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 20 0.1% -44.4%
Subway or elevated 8 0% N/A
Motorcycle 57 0.3% 256.2%
Bicycle 306 1.8% -7.8%
Walk 1,949 11.4% 17.8%
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 Union County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
17810 5,309 607 $77,232 $86,938
17880 29 10 $61,667 $63,080
17885 181 85 $92,917 $102,979
17829 212 91 $80,417 $79,479
17835 114 22 $48,611 $59,445
17837 18,403 5,969 $88,975 $121,206
17844 10,291 4,250 $68,314 $99,617
17845 2,058 775 $66,510 $83,584
17855 1,014 394 $88,929 $91,930
17856 3,167 1,339 $91,661 $100,765

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FAQs about Union County demographics 

What is the total population of Union County?

Union County has a total population of 42,456 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Union County?

The gender ratio in Union County is as follows:
  • 53.9% males (22,866 residents)
  • 46.1% females (19,590 residents)

What is the median age in Union County?

The median age in Union County is 41.

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

The age distribution in Union County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.1% (5,994 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.2% (7,312 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (10,315 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (10,396 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (8,439 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Union County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Union County is as follows:
  • White: 88.6% (37,633 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6% (2,526 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (58 residents)
  • Asian: 2% (846 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.3% (971 residents)
  • Other: 1% (422 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95% of the population in Union County.

How many housing units are there in Union County?

There are 16,205 housing units in Union County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Union County has a total of 14,546 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Union County?

Union County has a median household income of $76,404, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.8% in Union County, with a workforce of 17,425 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.4% (13,837 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.6% (3,588 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.9% (2,241 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.8% (8,845 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (2,028 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 24.7% (4,311 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