Franklin County offers unmatched connectivity and market reach. Located along one of the nation’s busiest interstate corridors, the County sits within a one-day drive of over half of the North American population. This prime position gives companies immediate access to major industrial and consumer markets, making Franklin County an exceptional hub for manufacturing, distribution, and commerce.
Pennsylvania was recently recognized among Area Development magazine’s Top 20 States for Doing Business, reaffirming the Commonwealth’s competitive business climate, skilled workforce, and strategic East Coast location. For companies that require speed to market, Pennsylvania and Franklin County deliver.
Demographics
Population
Our County is growing faster than ever. With one of the highest population growth rates in the state, we’re on track to surpass 160,000 residents by 2027. This momentum reflects our strong economy, vibrant communities, and exceptional quality of life. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to planned growth, supporting local businesses, and ensuring our County remains a place where families thrive and opportunities flourish. (Source: Lightcast Economic Overview, Franklin County, PA, Q3 2025)
MEDIAN AGE: 42.3 YEARS
Skilled Talent
Franklin County’s strategic position along Interstate 81 places it at the center of one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most dynamic labor markets. The county draws skilled talent from across the Quad-State Region - Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia - along with neighboring counties throughout south central Pennsylvania.
Within a 50-mile radius lies a robust civilian labor force of more than 630,000 highly skilled, dependable workers, providing employers with exceptional access to the talent they need to grow and compete.
In 2025, total jobs in Franklin County were more than 63,000. Labor participation rates average 60%
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Labor Force Data by County, August 2025)
Economic Snapshot
Franklin County boasts a long-term strategy of supporting a diverse mix of employers and industries so that downturns in any one sector do no derail county-wide prosperity.
“It’s not all warehousing and distribution.”
in December 2025... maintained below state and national averages
(Source: PA Department of Labor and Industry, Workforce Information News Release, ChambersburgWaynesboro MSA, December 2025)
Major Employers
(Source: PA Department of Labor and Industry, Chambersburg MSA Occupational Wages, May 2025)
Some of the most recognized companies in the world call Franklin County home.
WellSpan Health
Letterkenny Army Depot
Walmart Associates, Inc.
Chambersburg Area School District
Target Corporation
Manitowoc Crane Group
Ventura Foods LLC
Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe Inc.
Ulta Beauty Distribution LLC
Franklin County Government
There are more than 3,111 registered businesses in Franklin County
Franklin
County’s Economic
Strength... A Manufacturing Powerhouse
In 2025, Franklin County’s total GDP climbed to an impressive $7.5 billion, underscoring a resilient and diversified industry base. The County’s world-class manufacturers led the local economy contributing more than $1.4 billion to the county’s GDP - the largest share of any industry sector. Healthcare and Transportation & Logistics both contributed more than $800 million each. From advanced manufacturing to essential services and supplychain operations, Franklin County’s industries are fueling innovation, supporting job growth, and positioning the county for continued prosperity.
(Source: Lightcast Economic Modeling Q4 2025 Data Set, December 2025)
Agribusiness Continues to be a Major Component of Franklin County’s Economy
Agricultural Excellence in Franklin County... A Statewide Leader in Farm Production: Franklin County proudly ranks 2nd in Pennsylvania for the production of milk, cattle, apples, peaches, and corn for silage. This leadership reflects generations of farming expertise and the County’s commitment to supporting a strong and vibrant agricultural sector.
Preserving
Farmland
for the Future:
In 2025, Franklin County reached a major milestone - more than 20,000 acres of farmland permanently preserved. To date, 167 family farms have been protected, ensuring that local farming remains viable for future generations.
By the numbers: Franklin County...
(Source: PA Annual Ag Bulletin 20232024 & Franklin County Planning Department November 2025)
Franklin County is investing in the talent pipeline that employers need to thrive. With a wide range of high-quality educational options - from early childhood programs to advanced post-secondary training - residents have access to learning opportunities that fuel lifelong growth and power a skilled, ready workforce.
Education
6
Post Secondary Institutions serving Franklin County include:
montalto.psu.edu
Healthcare
Our expanding healthcare systems are focused on Patient Care...
Housing
Franklin County offers an expanding range of affordable housing opportunities.
By the numbers: $236,300 Median Home Value (trending up)
68,141 total estimated housing units with 73% owner occupied
$1,613 Average Monthly Housing Ownership Costs (with mortgage)
$1,117 Average Gross Rental Costs
Median Household Income: $74,946 UP $3,000 from 2023! There were more than 675 new residential development lots created in Franklin County in 2025.
(Source: US Census Bureau, Franklin County Quick Facts, July 2024, Franklin County Planning Department 2025)
