Private Schools Market: ZIP 17720
Opportunity Score
24
/ 100
Challenging
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.
Market Summary
ZIP 17720 is an urban area. with a population of 271 and household incomes near the national median ($67,614).
Area Profile
271
Population
$67,614
Median Income
-9% vs. national
Urban
Area Type
Median Age: 54.6 —
older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.
College-Educated: 18.1% —
value-focused market, keep prices competitive.
Operating Costs
Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.
$980
2BR Fair Market Rent
$613
Median Gross Rent
Tips for Starting a Private School Business in Pennsylvania
- Accreditation takes 2-3 years but determines whether your tuition qualifies for tax credits and whether colleges recognize your diplomas.
- Your first 50 students are the hardest. Most private schools break even around 80-120 students. Plan for 2-3 years of operating losses.
- Facility costs dominate. Leasing a church or community center cuts your startup cost by 60-80% vs. building or buying.
- Teacher salaries run 15-30% below public school equivalents. You'll attract mission-driven educators, but benefits and culture have to compensate.
Quick Facts
- Area Type
- Urban
vs. National Average
Median Income
-9% vs. $74,580
Nearby Markets
17740
5.4 mi
Pop: 11,600
$71,000
Walk: 8.9
17744
5.5 mi
Pop: 2,789
$65,833
Walk: 6.4
17721
8.1 mi
Pop: 1,695
$72,826
17702
8.7 mi
Pop: 10,506
$70,514
Walk: 8.2
17748
9.7 mi
Pop: 141
$59,125
17779
12.2 mi
Pop: 146
$51,750
Walk: 7.1
17810
12.5 mi
Pop: 5,769
$76,346
Walk: 1.0
17747
13.5 mi
Pop: 3,385
$71,297
Walk: 4.8
Check Another Market
Or estimate costs with the PrivateSchoolCost calculator.
About This Data
Data sources
U.S. Census Bureau (ACS, ZBP) · HUD Fair Market Rents · EPA Walkability Index · USDA RUCA · IRS SOI · FDIC Summary of Deposits