Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Clarion, PA
Considering a move to Clarion, PA? This small college town of about 3,900 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $139,000 and average rent near $760. Commutes are a breeze at just 14 minutes on average, and the area sees low violent crime rates. Clarion stands out for its access to higher education at PennWest Clarion, a friendly community, and four distinct seasons—making it ideal for those seeking a close-knit, affordable lifestyle in scenic western Pennsylvania.
Demographics - Clarion, PA
Demographics - Clarion, PA
Clarion, PA is a compact community of about 3,900 people, characterized by a youthful median age of 22.9 years—thanks in part to its college presence. The population is predominantly White, with a small but diverse mix of other backgrounds, and a modest percentage of non-English speakers. The city's high density fosters a close-knit, walkable feel for residents.
Population:
3,900
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.9
Gender Ratio:
82 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
90.4%
Black:
4.1%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Clarion, PA?
Clarion offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $139,000 and average monthly rent around $760, making it accessible for both homeowners and renters. Living expenses like utilities and groceries are below the national average, and state income tax remains low at 3.07%. Overall, the cost of living index is notably lower than many other U.S. cities, appealing to budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$139,000
Gross Rent:
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.0
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Clarion, PA a safe place to live?
Clarion maintains a relatively low crime rate, with only 152 violent crimes and 1,010 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents have a 1 in 658 chance of experiencing violent crime, which is lower than in many urban areas. This contributes to the town’s reputation as a safe and welcoming place.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
152
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,010
Crime Index:
1,162
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 658
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 99
Weather
What is the weather like in Clarion, PA year-round?
Clarion experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 81°F. The town receives about 42.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days nearly half the year. Residents can expect a classic Northeastern climate with distinct seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community in Clarion is friendly and diverse, with a median household income of $35,500 and a high school graduation rate of 94%. While the poverty rate is above average at 32.4%, the area boasts a short average commute of just over 14 minutes and very little reliance on public transport. Most neighbors are well-educated and value the area's affordability and small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$21,700
Household Income:
$35,500
Family Income:
$55,600
Per Capita Income:
$16,900
Income Male:
$27,000
Income Female:
$23,000
Poverty Rate:
32.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$760
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.0%
Bachelors or More:
32.7%
Education
How are the schools in Clarion, PA?
Education is a strong suit in Clarion, with well-rated public schools like Clarion Area Elementary and Jr/Sr High offering favorable student-teacher ratios. The city is also home to PennWest Clarion, a prominent university with around 4,500 students, enriching the community and fostering a vibrant, academic atmosphere. Private school options and a high rate of educational attainment further enhance local opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Clarion Area Elementary School
Street:
221 Liberty St
Phone:
814-226-8118
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Clarion Area Jr/Sr High School
Street:
219 Liberty St
Phone:
814-226-8110
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8

Private Schools
Name:
Immaculate Conception School
Street:
729 Main St
Phone:
814-226-8433
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
PennWest Clarion (formerly Clarion University of Pennsylvania)
City:
Clarion
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Clarion provides quality healthcare services, anchored by Clarion Hospital which offers emergency care and general medical services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, medical needs are well supported locally. The health care index reflects above-average accessibility and affordability for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Clarion Hospital
Address:
One Hospital Drive, Clarion, PA 16214
Phone:
(814) 226-9500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Clarion, PA?
Clarion’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $139,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $760. Homeownership is less common than renting, but the area sees steady appreciation and low foreclosure rates. Rental vacancies are higher than the national average, making it easier for newcomers to find available apartments.
Median Home Price:
$139,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
36.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through PennDOT at the local Clarion office on S. 5th Avenue. Services include licensing, vehicle registration, and title processing, with convenient contact information and an official website for online renewals. The DMV is centrally located, providing easy access for city residents.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services
Address:
1002 S. 5th Avenue, Clarion, PA 16214
Phone:
1-800-932-4600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.