Medicare in ZIP Code
17749
—
Watsontown
218
Population
41.072
Latitude
-76.8184
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 218 residents with 29.4% age 65 or older (64 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 53.0 years with household income of $69,375. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- Poverty is low at 10.2%, suggesting financial stability. Still, all retirees should compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap options.
- 16.2% of residents hold bachelor's degrees, supporting health literacy. All Medicare beneficiaries benefit from free SHIP counseling explaining enrollment options.
- Median home value is $172,400, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17749 is located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, centered near Watsontown, with a total population of 218 and a median age of 53.0. This is a suburban community with a notably high senior population — 29.4% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 64 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 100.0% White. Approximately 16.2% 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 $69,375, near the national median. Many residents may find Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums to be an attractive option, while others may prefer Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement for broader provider access. The poverty rate is 10.2%. The unemployment rate of 8.0% is above the national average, which may indicate a greater need for social safety net programs including Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility. The median home value is $172,400 and median monthly rent is $875. Medicare beneficiaries in Northumberland 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 Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage?
Can I stay on my Affordable Care Act marketplace plan instead of Medicare?
When should I apply for Medicare?
Do all Intermountain clinics take the same Medicare Advantage plans?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 29.4% of your community at age 65+, Medicare is a major topic. You have three main paths: Original Medicare covers 80% of allowed doctor and hospital charges through any participating provider. Medicare Advantage plans bundle coverage with networks and lower costs. Medigap supplements Original Medicare to cover gaps. Enroll during Open Enrollment from October 15 through December 7 annually.
Even with low poverty at 10.2%, free help is available. Pennsylvania SHIP counselors explain Original Medicare, Advantage, Medigap, and Part D prescriptions at no cost. They compare plans and discuss switching without bias. Contact SHIP anytime—it's your federal right to unbiased assistance year-round.