Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Portland Mills, PA
Thinking about a move to Portland Mills, PA? This tiny rural community of about 120 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $82,000 and rents averaging $630. Crime rates are low, and commutes are a breezy 23 minutes on average. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, solid public schools, and four seasoned weather with 48% sunny days per year. While amenities are limited, larger towns and healthcare services are within easy reach, making Portland Mills a relaxed, budget-friendly choice for lovers of quiet country living.
Demographics - Portland Mills, PA
Demographics - Portland Mills, PA
Portland Mills is a small, close-knit rural community with a population of just 120 and a median age of 49, reflecting a mature and stable demographic. The area is predominantly White, with over 96% of residents identifying as such, and features a balanced gender ratio. A low percentage of non-English speakers and a modest population density create a quiet, familiar atmosphere ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Population:
120
Density:
30 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Portland Mills, PA?
Living in Portland Mills is highly affordable, with a median home value of $82,000 and average rents around $630, well below national averages. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and the overall cost of living index stands at 84.5, making it a budget-friendly choice. State income taxes are fixed at a low 3.07%, further contributing to its economic appeal.
Median House Value:
$82,000
Gross Rent:
$630
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$820
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
68.5
Utilities:
108.0
Transportation:
87.5
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Portland Mills, PA a safe place to live?
Portland Mills enjoys a low crime environment, with violent crime rates at just 62 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,613 chance of being a victim. Property crime is also modest, offering peace of mind for families and retirees. The safe atmosphere adds to the community’s appeal for those prioritizing security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
765
Crime Index:
827
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,613
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 131
Weather
What is the weather like in Portland Mills, PA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters dipping to 15°F and warm summers reaching 79°F. The area receives about 43 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for enjoying the rural landscape.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $37,400 and a poverty rate of 13.8%, indicating a modest but stable economic profile. Most neighbors are high school graduates, and unemployment is relatively low at 5.8%. With minimal public transportation use and an average commute of under 23 minutes, daily life is convenient and neighborly.
Median Income:
$27,600
Household Income:
$37,400
Family Income:
$47,200
Per Capita Income:
$19,300
Income Male:
$32,400
Income Female:
$24,100
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$630
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.5%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Portland Mills, PA?
Portland Mills families benefit from solid public schooling, with Ridgway Area Elementary School offering a favorable 13:1 student-teacher ratio. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at the Pennsylvania College of Technology's outreach campus just 19 miles away. The area’s educational resources support both young children and adults seeking to advance their studies.

Public Schools
Name:
Ridgway Area Elementary School
Street:
601 South Broad St
Phone:
814-773-3161
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Colleges
Name:
Pennsylvania College of Technology - Outreach
City:
St. Marys
State:
PA
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
500
Healthcare
Local healthcare access includes Penn Highlands Elk hospital in nearby St. Marys, offering general and emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, residents have solid basic care options. While more specialized care may require travel, essential healthcare needs are met within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Penn Highlands Elk
Address:
763 Johnsonburg Rd, St. Marys, PA 15857
Phone:
(814) 788-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
69.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Portland Mills, PA?
Portland Mills features an affordable and stable housing market, with a median home price of $82,000 and high owner-occupancy at over 80%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $630 and low vacancy and foreclosure rates. Modest home appreciation and minimal new construction reflect a steady, settled community.
Median Home Price:
$82,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$630
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), which provides licensing, registration, and vehicle services for the state. The main office is located in Harrisburg, but online and phone assistance are readily available. Access to DMV resources is convenient for both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
Address:
1101 S. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
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.