Medicare in ZIP Code
17801
—
Sunbury
16229
Population
40.8551
Latitude
-76.7776
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 16,229 residents with 21.5% age 65 or older (3,489 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 44.2 years with household income of $57,341. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- Poverty is low at 11.8%, suggesting financial stability. Still, all retirees should compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap options.
- 16.3% of residents hold bachelor's degrees, supporting health literacy. All Medicare beneficiaries benefit from free SHIP counseling explaining enrollment options.
- Median home value is $140,800, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Unemployment rate is 4.7%. Some older adults work past 65, which affects Medicare eligibility timing and plan choices significantly.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17801 is located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, centered near Sunbury, with a total population of 16,229 and a median age of 44.2. This is a suburban community where 21.5% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 3,489 individuals), moderately above the national average. This aging population benefits from robust Medicare plan options and community-based health resources. The racial and ethnic composition includes 89.4% White, 1.8% Black/African American, 6.4% Hispanic/Latino. Approximately 16.3% 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 $57,341, 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. The poverty rate is 11.8%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. The median home value is $140,800 and median monthly rent is $733. 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
Which Medicare option is best if I live in Utah but spend winters in Arizona?
What is Original Medicare?
What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January to March?
Is there really a Medicare giveback or am I being sold something?
Do I need a new Medicare Advantage plan if I move to Utah?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 21.5% 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 11.8%, 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.