Technology trends can indicate how well a region is keeping pace with resources and training that support technical innovation and new types of jobs. As well, having access to the Internet is increasingly essential for participating in much of modern life.
In 2019-23, 87% of households in Lancaster County had access to the Internet, slightly lower than Pennsylvania and the U.S. (89% and 90%, respectively). Compared to neighboring counties, Lancaster had the second-lowest share of households, just above Lebanon, varying from a few percentage points below most neighbors, to 7 points below Chester. The City of Lancaster has a higher percentage of people with internet access, at 90%.
In 2023, 16% of residents in Lancaster County aged 25 or older had a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) degree. This was lower than both the state rate of 24% and national rate of 20%, respectively. Lancaster County was tied with Cumberland County for the second-largest percentage of STEM graduates, behind Dauphin (36%).
Per capita funding for science and engineering research and development in Lancaster County was $8 in 2023, exceeding $4.3 million. That was below the per capita funding level of $460 for the state as a whole, and third amongst neighboring counties, below Chester and Dauphin counties, at $12 and $18, respectively. While per capita funding statewide has increased 34% since 2010, the funding level in Lancaster, Chester, and Cumberland Counties have all experienced double-digit decreases in funding over this period.
In 2022, 6% of jobs in Lancaster County were considered high-tech, below both the state and national rates of 10% each. Chester County had the largest percentage of high-tech jobs at 15% and Lebanon County has the smallest percentage at 2%.
| INDICATORS | TREND |
|---|---|
| Households With Internet Access | Increasing |
| High-Tech Jobs | Increasing |
| STEM Graduates | Increasing |
| Science and Engineering Research and Development | Maintaining |
