Median Income
$42,125
44% lower than US avg
Home Value
$50,200
82% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
173/100K
55% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
10.2%
70% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$696
40% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
31.9%
1% lower than US avg
Unemployment
0.9%
75% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
21.2%
71% higher than US avg
How South Fork Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population823
Median Age43.1 yrs
Density1,789/mi²
Male / Female53% / 47%
Largest GroupWhite 92%
Veterans7.7%
Economy
B
Median Income$42,125
Per Capita$26,561
Unemployment0.9%
Poverty21.2%
County GDP$6,208M
Commute23 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$50,200
Rent$696
Ownership70.6%
Zillow$123,049
Housing Units427
Rent Burden44.7%
Crime
F
Violent173/100K
Property2,511/100K
Climate
Avg Temp49°F (9°C)
AQI40 (Good)
Rain41.3 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation1,541 ft (470 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+10.2%
High School+89.1%
Graduate+2.3%
School Score5.80
Community
2024 VoteR 69% / D 30%
Commute23 min
Broadband79.2%
EV Stations2
Libraries14
Is South Fork a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, South Fork receives an overall livability score of 2.7 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. South Fork has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in South Fork is $42,125, 44% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.9%. The poverty rate of 21.2% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in South Fork is $50,200, 82% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $696 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 1.2x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
Violent crime in South Fork is below the national average at 173 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,511 per 100,000, 28% above the national average.
Education
10.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 89.1% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.8/10.
Climate & Weather
South Fork experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 49°F. Winters average 26°F in January while summers reach 70°F in July. With 275 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 41.3 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40.
South Fork has a population of 823 with a density of 1,789 people per square mile, spread across 0.2 square miles. The median age is 43.1 years, 11% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 47.1% female and 52.9% male. The city is predominantly White (92.2%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 99.5% of residents. 7.7% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 16.1% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 95.8% have health insurance coverage.
Population
43.1yrs
Median Age
11% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
South Fork vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
99.5%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.5%
96% below US avg
Social Characteristics
South Fork vs U.S. Average
The median household income in South Fork is $42,125, which is 44% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $26,561 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $958, 33% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 0.9% (below the 3.6% US average). 21.2% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 3,304 business establishments, including 299 restaurants. The cost of living index is 97.6, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 11.7% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: South Fork vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $42,125 |
| 44% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $26,561 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $958 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $60,334 |
| Gini Index | 0.451 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 0.9% |
| 75% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 21.2% |
| 71% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 3,304 |
| County GDP | $6,208M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 299 |
| Healthcare | 471 |
| Retail | 469 |
| Manufacturing | 107 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $4,651 |
| 33% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 97.60 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 9.26% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 22.8 min |
| Drive Alone | 73.4% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 11.7% |
The median home value in South Fork is $50,200, 82% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $123,049, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $696 (40% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $996 for a one-bedroom to $1,225 for a two-bedroom apartment. 70.6% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 427 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1938. The average annual property tax is $4,651 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 44.7% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing, indicating a significant affordability challenge for renters. The home price-to-income ratio is 1.2x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $50,200 |
| 82% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $123,049 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $696 |
| 40% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 44.7% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $996 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,225 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,744 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 70.6% |
| Owner-Occupied | 70.6% |
| Renter-Occupied | 29.4% |
| Housing Units | 427 |
| Median Year Built | 1938 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $4,651 |
| 33% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 9.26% |
In South Fork, 31.9% of adults are obese, below the national rate of 32.1%. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,437. The dentist ratio is 1:1,685. 85.1% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 7.7 out of 10.
Health Metrics: South Fork vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 31.9% |
| 1% below US avg |
Behaviors & Mental Health
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 95.8% |
| |
| Primary Care | 1:1,437 |
| Dentists | 1:1,685 |
| Mental Health | 1:414 |
| Dental Visits | 58.2% |
| Premature Death | 10,679/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 7.7/10 |
| Exercise Access | 85.1% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 471 |
South Fork has a violent crime rate of 173 per 100,000 residents, 55% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 2,511 per 100,000, 28% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 12 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, South Fork receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: South Fork vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 172.6/100K |
| 55% below US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 2,510.6/100K |
| 28% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 12 |
| Traffic Accidents | 147 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.1 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
South Fork experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 49°F (9°C). Winters average 26°F in January while summers reach 70°F in July. The area gets 275 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 41.3 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40. The city sits at an elevation of 1,541 feet.
Temperature
26°F Jan (-3°C)
70°F Jul (21°C)
| Annual Average | 48.9°F |
| 9% below US avg |
| January Average | 26°F (-3°C) |
| July Average | 70°F (21°C) |
| Sunny Days | 275 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 1,541 ft (470 m) |
| Area | 0.2 sq mi (0.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,789/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 40.3620°N, 78.7896°W |
| Timezone | America/New_York |
| County | Cambria County County |
| Nearest Airport | Arnold Palmer Regional (LBE) 33 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
41.3"
9% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jul)
4.41"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 40.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)
| Ozone (O₃) | 0.0427 ppm |
| NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide) | 9.3 ppb |
| SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide) | 0.77 ppb |
| CO (Carbon Monoxide) | 0.27 ppm |
| PM2.5 (Fine Particles) | 8.8 μg/m³ |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 76.4 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 60.4 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 96.5 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Moderate |
| Heat Wave |
Very Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Moderate |
| Lightning |
Relatively High |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Low |
| Drought |
No Rating |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
| Avalanche |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
3 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.4. Most recent: M2.5 on Sep 11, 2024.
| Jun 13, 2019 |
9 km N of Blain, Pennsylvania |
M3.4 |
109 km |
| Jan 17, 2016 |
3 km NE of Ranson, West Virginia |
M3.0 |
142 km |
| Sep 11, 2024 |
4 km WNW of Claysville, Pennsylvania |
M2.5 |
144 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
206 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 5 fatalities, 337 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Jun 2, 1998 |
EF4 |
50 km |
0 |
| May 31, 1985 |
EF4 |
92 km |
0 |
| Jun 3, 1980 |
EF4 |
86 km |
0 |
| May 31, 1998 |
EF3 |
72 km |
1 |
| Jul 11, 1976 |
EF3 |
60 km |
1 |
| Aug 3, 1963 |
EF3 |
93 km |
2 |
| Jun 26, 2024 |
EF2 |
74 km |
0 |
| Aug 25, 2023 |
EF2 |
73 km |
0 |
| Mar 31, 2022 |
EF2 |
72 km |
0 |
| Apr 19, 2019 |
EF2 |
95 km |
0 |
| Oct 2, 2018 |
EF2 |
57 km |
0 |
| Oct 2, 2018 |
EF2 |
92 km |
0 |
| Mar 23, 2011 |
EF2 |
81 km |
0 |
| Apr 28, 2002 |
EF2 |
44 km |
0 |
| Jun 2, 1998 |
EF2 |
100 km |
0 |
| Jun 2, 1998 |
EF2 |
68 km |
0 |
| Aug 15, 1997 |
EF2 |
45 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
21 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
65 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
92 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
2 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: BEAR DEN (945 ac, 2014).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2014 |
BEAR DEN |
945 |
59 km |
| 2005 |
UNNAMED |
510 |
58 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
26°F (-3°C) |
2.9 in |
Coldest |
| February |
27°F (-3°C) |
2.8 in |
Driest |
| March |
36°F (2°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| April |
46°F (8°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| May |
57°F (14°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| June |
65°F (18°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| July |
70°F (21°C) |
4.4 in |
Warmest, Wettest |
| August |
68°F (20°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| September |
61°F (16°C) |
3.8 in |
|
| October |
50°F (10°C) |
2.9 in |
|
| November |
40°F (4°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| December |
30°F (-1°C) |
3.2 in |
|
South Fork has a seasonal temperature swing of 44°F / from 26°F in January to 70°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 42.7 inches, with July being the wettest month (4.4") and February the driest (2.8").
Average costs for common services in South Fork. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$244 ($146–$390) |
| Specialist Visit |
$342 ($195–$537) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$195 ($98–$342) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,147 ($781–$4,880) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$127 ($73–$195) |
| Dental Filling |
$244 ($146–$390) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$44 ($24–$73) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$73 ($49–$117) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$293 ($146–$488) |
| Tire Rotation |
$39 ($20–$73) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$586 ($390–$976) |
| Battery Replacement |
$195 ($98–$342) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$98 ($59–$146) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$88 ($49–$137) |
| HVAC Repair |
$390 ($146–$781) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,832 ($3,904–$11,712) |
| Roof Repair |
$976 ($390–$1,952) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,784 ($5,368–$14,640) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,464 ($488–$3,416) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$14,640 ($4,880–$29,280) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,880 ($1,952–$9,760) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,464 ($781–$2,928) |
| Will Preparation |
$488 ($195–$976) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,440 ($976–$4,880) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$24 ($15–$44) |
| Women's Haircut |
$54 ($29–$98) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$146 ($73–$244) |
| Manicure |
$24 ($15–$44) |
| Pedicure |
$39 ($24–$63) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$78 ($49–$127) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$4.00 ($2.93–$5.37) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.42 ($2.44–$4.88) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.71 ($2.44–$5.37) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.39 ($2.93–$6.34) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.37 ($3.90–$7.32) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.98 ($0.59–$1.76) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$137 ($78–$244) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$68 ($29–$146) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$68 ($39–$117) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$68 ($39–$98) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$63 ($29–$98) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$83 ($49–$146) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$195 ($73–$488) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,952 ($1,171–$3,416) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$68 ($29–$127) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$15 ($7.81–$24) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$98 ($29–$244) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$29 ($15–$73) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,171 ($586–$2,440) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$976 ($488–$1,952) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$390 ($195–$683) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$49 ($24–$98) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$976 ($390–$2,440) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$12,200 ($4,880–$29,280) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$59 ($29–$98) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$98 ($49–$195) |
| Dog Grooming |
$59 ($29–$98) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$39 ($20–$73) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$293 ($146–$488) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$195 ($98–$390) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About South Fork
What is the population of South Fork?
South Fork has a population of 823 residents and is located in Pennsylvania. The population density is 1,789 people per square mile, spread across 0.2 square miles. The median age of residents is 43.1 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 47.1% female and 52.9% male.
Is South Fork expensive to live in?
South Fork has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 97.6 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $42,125, 44% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $50,200 (82% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $696 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is South Fork safe?
South Fork is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 173 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,511 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, South Fork receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in South Fork?
South Fork has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 49°F (9°C). Winter temperatures average 26°F in January, while summers reach an average of 70°F in July. The area receives 275 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 41.3 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 40.
How is the job market in South Fork?
The job market in South Fork is very strong, with unemployment at just 0.9% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $958. There are 3,304 business establishments in the area, including 299 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 23 minutes, and 11.7% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in South Fork?
The median home value in South Fork is $50,200. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $123,049. For renters, the median monthly rent is $696. Fair market rent is $996 for a 1-bedroom and $1,225 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 70.6%. The average annual property tax is $4,651.
How are the schools in South Fork?
Schools in South Fork score 5.8 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 10.2% of adults in South Fork hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 89.1% have completed high school. 2.3% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is South Fork?
The obesity rate in South Fork is 31.9% (below the national rate of 32.1%). 85.1% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,437.
What is transportation like in South Fork?
The average commute in South Fork is 23 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 73.4% of workers drive alone to work, and 11.7% work from home.
What are the demographics of South Fork?
The racial and ethnic makeup of South Fork is 92.2% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino. 99.5% of residents speak only English at home. 7.7% of the population are military veterans. 16.1% of residents have a disability. 95.8% have health insurance coverage.