Medicare in ZIP Code
17823
—
Watsontown
1316
Population
40.7571
Latitude
-76.7626
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 1,316 residents with 22.6% age 65 or older (298 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 44.8 years with household income of $73,984. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- Poverty is low at 6.3%, suggesting financial stability. Still, all retirees should compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap options.
- 16.6% of residents hold bachelor's degrees, supporting health literacy. All Medicare beneficiaries benefit from free SHIP counseling explaining enrollment options.
- Median home value is $213,800, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Unemployment rate is 0.3%. Some older adults work past 65, which affects Medicare eligibility timing and plan choices significantly.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17823 is located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, centered near Watsontown, with a total population of 1,316 and a median age of 44.8. This is a rural community where 22.6% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 298 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 99.1% White. Approximately 16.6% 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 $73,984, 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 relatively low at 6.3%. The unemployment rate is 0.3%. The median home value is $213,800 and median monthly rent is $1,000. 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
What is a Special Needs Plan (SNP) for Medicare?
Which Utah counties are hardest for Medicare Advantage network access?
What is Plan N and how does it compare to Plan G?
Which Utah Medicare Advantage plans are too narrow for someone who wants flexibility?
What are my Medicare options in Utah if I am under 65 and disabled?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 22.6% 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 6.3%, 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.