Chester County - Blending Tradition & Innovation
The county is located on 760 square miles in southeastern Pennsylvania's Delaware Valley Region. Its proximity to Philadelphia, Wilmington, New York and Baltimore offer businesses a geographical advantage. With approximately 25% of the nation's consumer buying power lying within a day's drive, the region introduces a wealth of economic opportunities, yet maintains its magnificent vistas and historic charm.
Ranking as one of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing communities for new business start-ups and population gains, Chester County also boasts a grand sense of community. Its greatest asset is its people. From residents to retailers, farmers to doctors, children to senior citizens - it is home to great leaders, influential business professionals and lifelong friends. People care about their communities, strengthening them through their hard work, involvement and generosity of spirit.
A region of contrasts, Chester County embraces its strong agricultural roots despite revitalization due to the influx of new and expanding businesses. The northern region includes established towns, villages and parks, while the central and eastern Main Line portions comprise greater Philadelphia's vital high-tech corridor. Mushroom farms and covered bridges dot its southern region, while the western portion is home to the sizable Amish population that has been a part of Chester County for decades.
The landscape in Chester County may be evolving, but the core elements that contribute to its extraordinary character remain the same. The Chester County difference lies in its commitment to preserving a rich heritage while, at the same time, maintaining its continued rate of growth and change. Thanks to visionary leadership, a reasonable cost of living, a diversified business base and a highly skilled workforce, Chester County's future is brighter than ever.
Pride in the Past Chester County - its landscape inspired three generations of Wyeths, and the duPonts made their fortune here. Brimming with history, it was founded in 1682, one of the three original counties created by William Penn. The discovery of iron-ore contributed to its early settlement and economic success.
On September 11, 1777, the Revolutionary War descended on the region. A trip to the Brandywine Battlefield Park commemorates that time and place in our nation's history, transporting visitors back to that period when General Washington utilized the high ground of Chadds Ford to defend against the British advance. Later, Chester County played its part in the Civil War, helping slaves to escape to the northern states via the Underground Railroad.
Agriculture has long played a major role in Chester County's economy due to the fertile soil of the region. In 1885, two Kennett Square florists began growing mushrooms and today, the county is the largest mushroom producer in the nation. Manufacturing developed in the 1700s because of the rich mineral deposits that were suitable for iron works. The latter part of the 19th Century brought big steel producers like Lukens Steel and Lenape Forge to the area.
Today's Chester County is buzzing with change. The landscape has expanded to make room for new homes and businesses beside its winding roads and stone farmhouses. Agricultural land remains productive and preservation efforts have protected over 15,000 acres of farmland. Manufacturing now includes concentrations of high tech industries and corporate giants. The region's economy is one of the strongest and most diversified in the state. From art galleries and microbreweries, to Amish buggies and rolling hills - discover what is unique about Chester County.
WC Dish is a celebration of food in the Greater West Chester Area. It was created by a local food fanatic who wanted a resource for locals and visitors for all things food-related in West Chester and its surrounding area. The mission of WC Dish is to be a one-stop site to find places to eat, share your experiences, participate in fun food events and learn more abut the food and drinks available in West Chester, PA.
Click here to learn more.
Chester County Fast Facts
| LAND AREA: | 762 square miles |
| COUNTY SEAT: | West Chester |
| TOTAL POPULATION: | 442,235 |
| MUNICIPALITIES: | 73 (Largest municipality: Tredyffrin) |
| SCHOOL DISTRICTS: | 12 |
| PARKS & RECREATION: | Nearly 10,000 acres, including 116 state parks & 4 county parks |
| HOSPITALS: | 7 |
| COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES: | 6 |
| LIBRARIES: | 16, with a total of 27 branches |
| BANKS: | 32, with a total of 123 branches |
| AVERAGE FAMILY SIZE: | 3.15 people |
| MEDIAN AGE: | 36.9 years |
| MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME: | $72,288 |
| MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME: | $88,164 |
| PER CAPITA INCOME: | $35,539 |
| HOUSING UNITS: | 163,773 |
| CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE: | 249,800 |
| ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES: | 9,395 |
MAJOR EMPLOYERS OF CHESTER COUNTY
| COMPANY | INDUSTRY SECTOR |
| The Vanguard Group Inc. | Financial and Insurance |
| United States Government | Public Administration |
| QVC Inc. | Retail Trade |
| Siemens Medical Solutions | Professional and Technical Services |
| Chester County | Public Administration |
| Centocor Inc. | Manufacturing |
| The Chester County Hospital | Health Care and Social Assistance |
| West Chester University | Educational Services |
| Lasko Metal Products | Manufacturing |
| Acme Markets Inc. | Retail Trade |
| Downingtown Area School District | Educational Services |
Source: Center for Workforce Information and Analysis, 3d Quarter 2004, Initial Data
About Chester County
