Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shenandoah, PA
Thinking of relocating to Shenandoah, PA? With a population of about 4,500, Shenandoah offers an affordable cost of living—median home prices are just $42,500 and average rent for a 2-bedroom is $670. Commute times are short, averaging under 24 minutes, and the town sees over 50% sunny days annually. While crime rates are slightly higher than average, Shenandoah features small-town living, accessible healthcare, and a close-knit community—making it a practical choice for those seeking affordability and a quieter lifestyle.
Demographics - Shenandoah, PA
Demographics - Shenandoah, PA
Shenandoah is home to approximately 4,500 residents with a median age of 41, reflecting a mature and diverse small-town population. The community is predominantly White, with 12% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, and maintains a fairly balanced gender ratio. Its high population density fosters close-knit neighborhood connections.
Population:
4,468
Density:
4,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
78.5%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
17.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shenandoah, PA?
Shenandoah boasts a very affordable cost of living with median home values around $42,500 and average rents of $670, which are significantly below national averages. Utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced, and Pennsylvania’s flat state income tax adds to the area’s financial appeal. This makes the town especially attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$42,500
Gross Rent:
$670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.2
Grocery:
96.1
Housing:
41.0
Utilities:
103.5
Transportation:
94.2
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Shenandoah, PA a safe place to live?
The crime rate in Shenandoah is higher than the national average, with a resident’s chance of becoming a victim of property crime at about 1 in 61 and violent crime at 1 in 377. While these figures indicate some safety concerns, many residents still appreciate the small-town atmosphere and community vigilance. Taking standard precautions and staying involved locally can help residents feel more secure.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
265
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,650
Crime Index:
1,915
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 377
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 61
Weather
What is the weather like in Shenandoah, PA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 20°F and warm summers reaching highs near 82°F. The area receives about 42 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine about 53% of the year, offering a mix of weather that supports both indoor and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes make for beautiful fall foliage and comfortable spring days.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Shenandoah’s typical household earns around $36,500 per year, and about 29% of the population lives below the poverty line. Most residents have completed high school, though just over 8% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The area’s modest incomes and lower cost of living foster a tight-knit, supportive community.
Median Income:
$32,400
Household Income:
$36,500
Family Income:
$44,800
Per Capita Income:
$19,300
Income Male:
$32,900
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
28.7%
Non English Speakers:
12.1%
Rent:
$670
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
23.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.8%
Bachelors or More:
8.3%
Education
How are the schools in Shenandoah, PA?
Families in Shenandoah benefit from local public schools with manageable student-teacher ratios and options for private education nearby. For higher education, Penn State Schuylkill and Alvernia University are within a short drive, providing convenient access to college programs. This setup supports educational needs from kindergarten through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Shenandoah Valley Elementary School
Street:
805 W Centre St
Phone:
570-462-2796
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Shenandoah Valley Junior Senior High School
Street:
805 W Centre St
Phone:
570-462-1957
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School
Street:
2001 Clinton Ave, Coal Township, PA
Phone:
570-644-0375
Students:
400
Colleges
Name:
Penn State Schuylkill
City:
Schuylkill Haven
State:
PA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
800
Name:
Alvernia University - Pottsville Center
City:
Pottsville
State:
PA
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
500
Healthcare
Healthcare services in Shenandoah are accessible, with two major hospitals nearby and 92% of residents having health insurance coverage. There are 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring basic medical needs are met locally. The town’s healthcare index reflects reliable services for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill
Address:
700 E Norwegian St, Pottsville, PA 17901
Phone:
(570) 621-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital
Address:
100 Paramount Blvd, Orwigsburg, PA 17961
Phone:
(272) 639-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.2%
Health Care Index:
73.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shenandoah, PA?
The housing market in Shenandoah is very affordable, with a median home price of just $42,500 and over half of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available with average 2-bedroom rents at $670, and the area sees a modest home appreciation rate of 3.2% annually. Low home prices and steady demand make it appealing for first-time buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$42,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$670
Owner Occupied Rate:
51.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.1%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for Shenandoah residents are managed by PennDOT, with comprehensive assistance available through the Harrisburg headquarters and an easy-to-navigate state website. Services include licensing, registration, and title transfers. Access to DMV resources is straightforward and efficient for new and existing residents.
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.