Medicare in ZIP Code
17815
—
Bloomsburg
29324
Population
41.0115
Latitude
-76.4384
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 29,324 residents with 17.2% age 65 or older (5,054 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 34.9 years with household income of $66,145. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- 32.5% of residents hold bachelor's degrees, supporting health literacy. All Medicare beneficiaries benefit from free SHIP counseling explaining enrollment options.
- Median home value is $216,700, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Unemployment rate is 6.4%. Some older adults work past 65, which affects Medicare eligibility timing and plan choices significantly.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17815 is located in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, centered near Bloomsburg, with a total population of 29,324 and a median age of 34.9. This is a suburban community where 17.2% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 5,054 individuals), near the national average. Medicare beneficiaries here have access to a range of plan options suited to diverse healthcare needs. The racial and ethnic composition includes 90.6% White, 2.3% Black/African American, 4.9% Hispanic/Latino, 1.7% Asian. About 32.5% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Economic Metrics
The median household income is $66,145, 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. With a poverty rate of 18.6%, 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 is 6.4%. The median home value is $216,700 and median monthly rent is $968. Medicare beneficiaries in Columbia 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
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If I only focus on monthly premium, what am I missing?
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Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 17.2% 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.
Pennsylvania SHIP offers free counseling on Medicare plans year-round. Counselors explain Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D prescriptions. They compare costs, networks, and coverage gaps specific to your needs. Contact SHIP anytime—no cost, no sales pitch, just honest advice.