Medicare in ZIP Code
17850
—
Watsontown
618
Population
40.9661
Latitude
-76.8575
Longitude
Key Points
- Your area has 618 residents with 20.2% age 65 or older (125 people), meaning Medicare coverage is key for the community.
- Median age is 35.9 years with household income of $49,500. These numbers help shape which Medicare plans fit your budget and health needs best.
- 21.5% of residents hold bachelor's degrees, supporting health literacy. All Medicare beneficiaries benefit from free SHIP counseling explaining enrollment options.
- Median home value is $178,400, showing local cost of living. Higher housing costs reduce money available for Medicare plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Unemployment rate is 3.1%. Some older adults work past 65, which affects Medicare eligibility timing and plan choices significantly.
Demographic Data
ZIP code 17850 is located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, centered near Watsontown, with a total population of 618 and a median age of 35.9. This is a suburban community where 20.2% of residents are 65 or older (approximately 125 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 85.1% White, 7.9% Hispanic/Latino. Approximately 21.5% 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 $49,500, 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. With a poverty rate of 24.3%, 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 3.1%. The median home value is $178,400 and median monthly rent is $763. 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
Can I keep my Medigap plan if I move to another state?
Do I get a Special Enrollment Period if I lose Medicaid or qualify for Extra Help?
What would make me regret my Medicare choice a year from now?
What is the difference between an HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plan?
Which Medicare plans in Utah work best with University of Utah Health?
Medicare Advantage Plans
in
Heading
County
Key Takeaways
With 20.2% 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.