10 Richest Counties in Pennsylvania
- Chester County
- Montgomery County
- Bucks County
- Delaware County
- Northampton County
- Butler County
- Lancaster County
- Cumberland County
- York County
- Lehigh County
1. Chester County: $117,200 Median Household Income
Chester County, with a median household income of $117,200 and an average home value of $532,300, takes the crown as the wealthiest county in Pennsylvania. Its rolling hills and charming towns make it a sought-after destination for those seeking an idyllic suburban lifestyle. Longwood Gardens is one of the biggest and best botanical gardens in the world, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually. Chester County has several prestigious universities, including Villanova and West Chester Universities. Wealthy communities in the county are home to many wealthy executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals who commute to nearby Philadelphia. Director and screenwriter M. Night Shyamalan has a 125-acre estate known as Ravenwood in Willistown Township.
2. Montgomery County: $106,800 Median Household Income
Montgomery County has a median household income of $106,800 and an average home value of $460,200, making it the second wealthiest county in the state. The area offers excellent educational opportunities like Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College, and Villanova University. Valley Forge National Historical Park is a Revolutionary War site in Montgomery County. Notable cities include King of Prussia, known for its expansive shopping malls and corporate headquarters. Celebrities, including Terrence Howard, Will Smith, and Patti LaBelle, have homes in Montgomery County. With its proximity to Philadelphia and a thriving cultural scene, Montgomery County is a prime destination for those seeking a prosperous lifestyle.
3. Bucks County: $105,400 Median Household Income
The third-richest county in Pennsylvania lies along the Delaware River just north of Philadelphia and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, scenic countryside, and upscale communities. The median household income in Bucks County is $105,400, and the average home value is $481,100. Some of the most expensive places in the county are Newtown, Yardley, and Doylestown. Bucks County offers an excellent job market, with many residents commuting to Philadelphia for work. Yolanda Hadid, model turned reality TV star and mother of supermodels Bella and Gigi Hadid, owns a large farm in New Hope.
4. Delaware County: $84,000 Median Household Income
Located in the southeastern part of the state, Delaware County is known for its diverse communities and proximity to Philadelphia. It offers a mix of suburban and urban living, with well-established neighborhoods and excellent schools. Delaware County is home to Glen Providence Park, Ridley Creek State Park, and Swarthmore College, a highly-ranked liberal arts institution, as well as large companies such as Boeing and Sunoco. Comedian and actress Tina Fey has ties to this area. With a median household income of $84,000 and an average home value of $342,200, Delaware County maintains a high quality of life while staying relatively affordable.
5. Northampton County: $83,700 Median Household Income
Located in the eastern part of the state, Northampton County combines a rich industrial heritage with scenic countryside. With an average home value of $332,600 and a median household income of $83,700, Northampton is the fifth-richest county in Pennsylvania. The area offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and access to the Delaware River. Northampton County is known for its strong job market and excellent schools. Some of the most expensive places to live include Easton, Upper Mount Bethel Township, and Bethlehem, known for its historic Moravian district.
6. Butler County: $82,900 Median Household Income
Butler County is located in western Pennsylvania, just north of Pittsburgh. It’s the sixth wealthiest county in the state, with a median household income of $82,900 and an average home value of $298,500. This area offers a high quality of life with picturesque landscapes and charming communities. Unique attributes include Moraine State Park, a popular spot for boating and outdoor activities. Butler, the county seat, boasts a quaint downtown area with unique shops and restaurants. Bret Micheals, lead singer of the 80s rock band Poison, is also from there. Butler County's proximity to Pittsburgh, strong job market, and plethora of outdoor recreation make it an appealing choice for those seeking a comfortable and affluent lifestyle.
7. Lancaster County: $81,500 Median Household Income
The 7th wealthiest county in Pennsylvania is Lancaster County. Known for its picturesque farmland and rich Amish heritage, Lancaster County offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The county seat, Lancaster City, boasts a thriving arts community, historic architecture, and a bustling farmers' market.
The area is also known for its excellent local food scene. It’s the eighth wealthiest county in the state, with a median household income of $81,500 and an average home value of $346,900. The cost of living is 12% lower than the rest of the state and 14% lower than the national average, making Lancaster County an affordable yet affluent option for those seeking a comfortable lifestyle in a rural setting.
8. Cumberland County: $80,900 Median Household Income
The 8th richest county in Pennsylvania, Cumberland, is known for its strong economy, excellent schools, well-maintained parks, unique restaurants, and rich history. Cumberland County offers a mix of historic charm and natural beauty. Carlisle is a historic town known for its annual car shows and cultural events, including the Army Heritage Center, which showcases the history of the US Army. Some of the most expensive places to live include Hampden, East Pennsboro, and Silver Spring townships. The median household income is about $81,000, and the average home value is $319,000, providing both affordability and affluence. The county's proximity to Harrisburg, the state capital, and its outdoor recreational opportunities add to its draw.
9. York County: $80,100 Median Household Income
There are many reasons to live in York County, Pennsylvania, our ninth-place top-richest county. It’s a wealthy area with a strong economy, excellent schools, and a high quality of life. A median household income of $80,100 offers residents a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle. York County boasts a diverse job market, with opportunities in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The average home value is relatively affordable at $280,200. The region's rich history, evident in attractions like the Colonial Complex and the Agricultural and Industrial Museum, adds depth to its character. Its proximity to cities like Baltimore and Harrisburg provides access to many cultural and recreational opportunities.
10. Lehigh County: $72,500 Median Household Income
Lehigh County, situated in eastern Pennsylvania, offers a mix of suburban and urban living. While its median household income is lower than that of other wealthy countries, it provides a comfortable lifestyle with a lower cost of living. Allentown, the county seat, is the largest city in the Lehigh Valley and offers a variety of cultural attractions and amenities. Average home values in Lehigh County are $324,200 and on the rise due to its desirability. The county's growing job market and highly-rated schools make it an appealing choice for those seeking an affluent lifestyle without the steep price tag.
Wealthiest Counties in Pennsylvania Compared
| County | Median Household Income | Median Home Price |
| Chester County | $117,200 | $532,300 |
| Montgomery County | $106,800 | $460,200 |
| Bucks County | $105,400 | $481,100 |
| Delaware County | $84,000 | $342,200 |
| Northampton County | $83,700 | $332,600 |
| Butler County | $82,900 | $298,500 |
| Lancaster County | $81,500 | $346,900 |
| Cumberland County | $80,900 | $319,000 |
| York County | $80,100 | $280,200 |
| Lehigh County | $72,500 | $324,200 |
Richest Counties in Pennsylvania Bottom Line
From rich cultural amenities to excellent educational opportunities and access to natural beauty, each of these counties has a unique charm and history. Whether you're drawn to the scenic beauty of Chester, the academic vibrancy of Montgomery, or the rich history of York, there's something for everyone in these affluent areas of Pennsylvania. If you're considering a move or simply curious about the state, exploring these counties is a great place to start.