RANK #211 / 996 · POP 104,604 · PA
PROJECTED GROWTH: +2.0%
Gettysburg, the county seat, immediately comes to mind for many when Adams County, Pennsylvania, is mentioned. This south-central Pennsylvania county, approximately an hour's drive from Baltimore and Washington D.C., and 35 miles from Harrisburg, is defined by its historical significance and rural character. The Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site draw millions of visitors annually, offering extensive outdoor recreation opportunities like exploring battlefields and scenic farmlands. The county's landscape features rolling hills and orchards, particularly in the South Mountain fruit belt. Commute options include carpooling, vanpooling, and a developing bus service connecting Gettysburg to Hanover.
Life in Adams County offers a blend of small-town community and access to larger cities. The area attracts families, retirees, and young professionals, with a notable percentage of residents owning their homes. Public schools in the county are generally above average, with districts like Gettysburg Area School District serving the community. The economy is significantly influenced by tourism, particularly around its historical sites, and a strong agricultural sector, especially fruit production. Food processing and manufacturing also contribute to the local economy. Recent economic developments include investments in agricultural tourism and initiatives to address affordable housing.
Above national median (4.7x)
Well below national median
Below-average climate & terrain
Above national median (13x)
Housing is fairly valued at 7.0x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Adams Solar Farm
Energix Renewables (previously ENGIE and Community Energy)
|
$80M | Operating |
|
Amblebrook at Gettysburg
DRB Homes (and other builders)
|
$50M | Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Adams County has a Boom Town Index score of 79/100, ranking #211 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at -1.4% and a median household income of $78,975, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Adams County is $242,800 with median rent at $1,060/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.3253, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: +0.8% year-over-year. Job growth: -1.4%. Home values changed +4.3% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 2.87% of Adams County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.