Medicare in ZIP Code
17824
—
Berwick
3840
Population
40.8639
Latitude
-76.5569
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 3,840 residents with 25.7% age 65 or older (986 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 52.8 years with household income of $114,653. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- Poverty is low at 3.2%, suggesting financial stability. Still, all retirees should compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap options.
- Median home value is $247,000, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Unemployment rate is 1.8%. Some older adults work past 65, which affects Medicare eligibility timing and plan choices significantly.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17824 is located in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, centered near Berwick, with a total population of 3,840 and a median age of 52.8. This is a rural community with a notably high senior population — 25.7% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 986 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 99.5% White. The community is highly educated, with 44.5% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher, which often correlates with greater health literacy and proactive engagement with Medicare plan selection.
Economic Metrics
The median household income is $114,653, above the national median. Higher-income Medicare beneficiaries should note that Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) may apply to Part B and Part D premiums for individuals earning above $106,000 or couples above $212,000 annually. The poverty rate is relatively low at 3.2%. The unemployment rate is 1.8%. The median home value is $247,000 and median monthly rent is $639. 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
What questions should I ask a Medicare agent before working with them?
What is Plan G and what does it cover?
What happens if I take COBRA instead of Medicare?
Can I go back to Original Medicare after being on Medicare Advantage?
What is the Part D late enrollment penalty and how is it calculated?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 25.7% 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 3.2%, 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.