Is Mercer a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Mercer receives an overall livability score of 3.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include below-average incomes, high obesity rates. Mercer offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Mercer is $39,583, 47% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.7%. Only 6.4% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 22 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Mercer is $58,100, 79% below the national median — offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $399 per month, below the national average — a plus for affordability. At just 1.5x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
12.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 94.9% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.2/10.
Climate & Weather
Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.