Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rutherford, PA
Considering Rutherford, PA for your next home? With a welcoming population of 4,350 and affordable median home prices around $205,000, Rutherford offers small-town charm just minutes from Harrisburg. Residents enjoy a reasonable cost of living, rents averaging $1,200, and a typical commute of just 23 minutes. Crime rates are below national averages, and families will appreciate solid school options plus convenient access to major hospitals and colleges. Expect four seasons, with comfortable summers and plenty of sunny days.
Demographics - Rutherford, PA
Demographics - Rutherford, PA
Rutherford, PA is a close-knit community with a population of 4,350 and a moderate density, offering a balanced mix of ages and backgrounds. The area features a diverse ethnic makeup and a median age of 39.1, making it appealing to both families and professionals. Around 11% of residents speak a language other than English at home, adding to the neighborhood's cultural variety.
Population:
4,350
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
62.5%
Black:
24.1%
Asian:
5.2%
Others:
8.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rutherford, PA?
Living in Rutherford is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index below the national average and a median home value of $205,000. Renters can expect average monthly rents of $1,200, and utility costs and state income taxes remain relatively low. Overall, the area provides residents with affordable housing and everyday expenses compared to many other Pennsylvania communities.
Median House Value:
$205,000
Gross Rent:
$1,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$530
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.8
Grocery:
98.3
Housing:
81.4
Utilities:
96.2
Transportation:
94.7
Health Care:
97.5
Miscellaneous:
95.8
Crime
Is Rutherford, PA a safe place to live?
Rutherford enjoys a lower crime rate than the national average, with a 1 in 581 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crimes are also relatively infrequent, offering residents peace of mind. This makes the area a safe choice for families and individuals looking for a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
172
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,279
Crime Index:
1,451
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 581
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 78
Weather
What is the weather like in Rutherford, PA year-round?
Residents in Rutherford experience all four seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 22°F. Rainfall is moderate at about 41.5 inches annually, and the area enjoys sunshine just over half the year. The climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Rutherford's community features a median household income of $55,400 and a poverty rate of 13.7%, reflecting a middle-income environment. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and average commute times are under 23 minutes. The area is primarily car-dependent, with low public transportation usage.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$55,400
Family Income:
$68,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,100
Income Male:
$41,700
Income Female:
$36,400
Poverty Rate:
13.7%
Non English Speakers:
11.3%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.3%
Commute Time:
22.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
23.8%
Education
How are the schools in Rutherford, PA?
Families in Rutherford benefit from a choice of public and private schools, including Lawnton Elementary and Central Dauphin East Middle School, both known for supportive learning environments. Higher education is easily accessible, with Harrisburg Area Community College and Penn State Harrisburg just a short drive away. The community values education, with nearly 90% of residents holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Lawnton Elementary School
Street:
4400 Franklin St
Phone:
717-558-9430
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Name:
Central Dauphin East Middle School
Street:
628 Rutherford Rd
Phone:
717-545-4709
Students:
1,260
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Margaret Mary School
Street:
2826 Herr St
Phone:
717-232-3771
Students:
310
Colleges
Name:
Harrisburg Area Community College
City:
Harrisburg
State:
PA
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
17,000
Name:
Penn State Harrisburg
City:
Middletown
State:
PA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
5,100
Healthcare
Residents have access to top regional healthcare, including UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, both offering emergency services. The area boasts 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 91% of residents have health insurance. Rutherford's healthcare resources contribute to its strong quality of life.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UPMC Harrisburg
Address:
111 S Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone:
(717) 782-3131
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center
Address:
503 N 21st St, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Phone:
(717) 763-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rutherford, PA?
Rutherford's housing market is stable, with a median home price of $205,000 and a 61.8% owner-occupancy rate. Renters benefit from average two-bedroom rents of $1,200, and the area sees steady home appreciation. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a healthy, in-demand neighborhood.
Median Home Price:
$205,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Rutherford residents are served by PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services, conveniently located in nearby Harrisburg. The office provides comprehensive licensing, registration, and vehicle services, with information available online and by phone. Access to DMV resources is straightforward for newcomers and longtime residents alike.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services
Address:
1101 S Front St, 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.