Medicare in ZIP Code
16501
—
Erie
1919
Population
42.126
Latitude
-80.086
Longitude
Key Points
- ZIP code 16501 has 1,919 residents who count on Medicare and health insurance to manage their health and medical costs.
- About 28.6% of this community is age 65 or older, which means Medicare planning matters greatly for many residents here.
- The median household income here is $14,579 per year, which directly affects what you pay out of pocket for healthcare.
- With 61.0% living in poverty, many residents qualify for Medicare Savings Programs to help with premiums and costs.
- Medicare offers four main choices: Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap supplemental coverage, and Part D prescriptions.
- Pennsylvania's SHIP program offers completely free, confidential, and impartial counseling to help you pick the right plan for you.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 16501 is located in Erie County, Pennsylvania, centered near Erie, with a total population of 1,919 and a median age of 55.4. This is a urban community with a notably high senior population — 28.6% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 549 individuals), well above the national average of 17%. This creates strong demand for Medicare services, local healthcare providers, and senior support programs. The racial and ethnic composition includes 77.3% White, 14.2% Black/African American, 4.4% Hispanic/Latino, 4.7% Asian. Approximately 23.0% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher — SHIP counselors and community health workers can help residents navigate Medicare enrollment and plan choices.
Economic Metrics
The median household income is $14,579, below the national median. Lower-income Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) that help pay Part B premiums, or Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) to reduce Part D prescription drug costs. With a poverty rate of 61.0%, a significant portion of residents may qualify for dual eligibility (Medicare and Medicaid), which provides additional benefits including dental, vision, and transportation assistance. The unemployment rate of 15.4% is above the national average, which may indicate a greater need for social safety net programs including Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility. Medicare beneficiaries in Erie County should explore all available plan options during Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7) or consult the Pennsylvania SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) for free, unbiased counseling on choosing the right coverage.
Interactive Tools / Medicare Calculators
Frequently Asked Medicare Questions
Do I need referrals to see specialists with Medicare?
What if my doctors stop taking my plan?
How do I compare total value instead of marketing hype?
Can I keep my employer coverage and delay Medicare?
How many work credits do I need for premium-free Part A?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
ZIP code 16501 has about 28.6% of residents who are 65 or older. Medicare includes four main options to consider. Original Medicare provides hospital and doctor coverage. Medicare Advantage (Part C) often includes extra benefits like dental or gym memberships. Medigap supplemental plans help pay costs Original Medicare leaves behind. Part D covers prescription drugs.
With a median income of $14,579, review what you can afford and what assistance you might get. Some residents may qualify for Extra Help with prescriptions or Medicare Savings Programs for premiums and costs. Open Enrollment is October 15 through December 7. Call Pennsylvania SHIP anytime for free, personalized counseling.