RANK #345 / 996 · POP 168,128 · PA
PROJECTED GROWTH: +1.4%
Monroe County, Pennsylvania, known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," is situated in the Pocono Mountains, approximately 75 miles west of New York City and 90 miles north of Philadelphia. This eastern Pennsylvania county is characterized by its mountainous terrain, river valleys, and extensive forests, offering a blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Stroudsburg, the county seat, features historic architecture and a downtown area. Commuting options include major interstate highways like I-80 and I-380, and local bus services provided by the Pocono Pony. The region provides year-round outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, skiing, and exploring waterfalls like Bushkill Falls.
Life in Monroe County offers a balance of natural surroundings and community amenities. The county's public schools are generally considered above average, with districts like Stroudsburg Area School District and Pleasant Valley School District serving local families. The economy is influenced by its tourism industry, drawing visitors to resorts and recreational areas. Recent economic developments include investments in commercial and residential sectors, as well as growth in data centers and energy. The county aims to diversify its economy by attracting businesses that complement its existing industries, while maintaining its quality of life and natural character.
Above national median (4.7x)
Above national median
Prices declining
Moderate climate & terrain
Housing is fairly valued at 4.9x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Monroe County Data Center (Tobyhanna Township)
Undisclosed Developer
|
$500M | Proposed |
|
Monroe County Data Center (Chestnuthill Township)
Undisclosed Developer
|
$500M | Proposed |
|
Various Residential Developments
Multiple Homebuilders
|
$100M | Under Construction |
|
Swiftwater Solar Project
Apex Clean Energy
|
$80M | Proposed |
|
Regional Energy Access Expansion Project (Effort Loop)
Williams Natural Gas (Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC)
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
PA 611 Corridor Study Area Improvements
PennDOT / NEPA MPO
|
$50M | Planned |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Monroe County has a Boom Town Index score of 65/100, ranking #345 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +2.1% and a median household income of $80,656, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Monroe County is $221,100 with median rent at $1,311/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.3648, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: 0.0% year-over-year. Job growth: +2.1%. Home values changed -0.4% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 2.33% of Monroe County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.