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Johnstown, PA

Frequently asked questions

Johnstown, PA

Johnstown is the largest city in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 18,411 as of the 2020 census. Located 57 miles (92 km) east of Pittsburgh, it is the principal city of the Johnstown metropolitan area, which is located in Cambria County and had 133,472 residents in 2020. It is also part of the Johnstown–Somerset combined statistical area, which includes both Cambria and Somerset Counties.

Johnstown was settled in 1770. The city has experienced three major floods in its history. The Johnstown Flood of May 31, 1889, occurred after the South Fork Dam collapsed 14.1 miles (22.7 km) upstream of the city during heavy rains. At least 2,209 people died as a result of the flood and subsequent fire that raged through the debris. Another major flood occurred in 1936. Despite a pledge by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to make the city flood-free, and despite subsequent work to do so, another major flood occurred in 1977.

Before becoming an independent town, Windber, Pennsylvania was considered a part of the city. The city is home to five national historic districts: the Downtown Johnstown Historic District, Cambria City Historic District, Minersville Historic District, Moxham Historic District, and Old Conemaugh Borough Historic District. Individual listings on the National Register of Historic Places are the Grand Army of the Republic Hall, Cambria Iron Company, Cambria Public Library Building, Bridge in Johnstown City, Nathan's Department Store, and Johnstown Inclined Railway.

Johnstown is located in southwestern Cambria County at 40°19′31″N 78°55′15″W (40.325174, −78.920954). According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.1 square miles (15.8 km2), of which 5.9 square miles (15.3 km2) is land and 0.19 square miles (0.5 km2), or 3.25%, is water. The Conemaugh River forms at Johnstown at the confluence of its tributaries, the Stonycreek River and the Little Conemaugh.

Johnstown, PA places a strong emphasis on health and wellness to its residents. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center has 537 inpatient, behavioral health, rehabilitation, and transitional care beds. VIBE Fitness Studio, Johnstown, PA's premier cardio class fitness studio featuring Zumba, Pound, Kettlebell, HIIT, Yoga, PiYo, and Indoor Cycling. Planet Fitness provides a comprehensive fitness experience with state-of-the-art equipment and personal training. Fitness enthusiasts can work out at Omni Health & Fitness, which offers state-of-the-art equipment and a variety of fitness classes. Yoga lovers can find peace at Santosha Yoga, offering sessions for all skill levels. Outdoor lovers can explore the scenic trails at Stackhouse Park, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Top sites in Johnstown, PA include the Johnstown Flood Museum, Heritage Discovery Center, and Johnstown Inclined Plane.

Population: 19,195 (2021). Area: 6.13 sq mi (15.88 km2). Elevation: 1,213 ft (370 m). ZIP Code: 15901-15909. Area code(s): 814. 

FAQs

What is Johnstown, PA known for?

Johnstown is best known for its role in the devastating Johnstown Flood of 1889, which resulted in significant loss of life and property. The resulting Johnstown Flood killed thousands and created an unprecedented media frenzy. However, the city has since been rebuilt and is now known for its resilient spirit, rich industrial history, and scenic beauty. 

Is Johnstown, PA a nice place to live?

Johnstown is part of Cambria County in central Pennsylvania, with four distinct seasons and low crime statistics. According to the Cambria Regional Chamber, the area has been nationally ranked the top most livable region in Pennsylvania and number four in the Northeast. Johnstown offers proximity to bigger cities like Pittsburgh, while residents can enjoy a smaller community feel in town.

What are the demographics of Johnstown, PA?

Johnstown, PA is home to a population of 18.4k people, of which 99.5% are citizens. As of 2022, 1.2% of Johnstown, PA residents were born outside of the country (222 people). In 2022, there were 4.55 times more White (non-Hispanic) residents (13.2k people) in Johnstown, PA than any other race or ethnicity. There were 2.89k Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and 1.36k Two+ (Non-Hispanic) residents, the second and third most common ethnic groups.

Sources

City of Johnstown

Wikipedia

Visit PA

Johnstown Flood Museum

Heritage Discovery Center

Johnstown Inclined Plane

Senior Lifestyle

Data USA

Conemaugh Memorial Medical

VIBE Fitness Studio

Planet Fitness

Omni Health & Fitness

Santosha Yoga

Stackhouse Park

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.