Cities and Towns in McKean County, Pennsylvania
Founded in 1804, McKean County is one of 67 counties in the state of Pennsylvania. Historically, McKean County was formed from parts of Lycoming County which was ttached to Centre County until 1814 and to Lycoming County until 1826 for judicial and elective purposes. The city of Smethport is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, McKean County has a population of 39,941 and area of 984 square miles (2,549 km²).
List of all cities in McKean County, PA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bradford, PA | 16701 | 814 |
| Crosby, PA | 16724 | 814 |
| Custer City, PA | 16725 | 814 |
| Cyclone, PA | 16726 | 814 |
| Derrick City, PA | 16727 | 814 |
| Duke Center, PA | 16729 | 814 |
| East Kane, PA | 16735 | 814 |
| East Smethport, PA | 16730 | 814 |
| Eldred, PA | 16731 | 814 |
| Gifford, PA | 16732 | 814 |
| Hazel Hurst, PA | 16733 | 814 |
| Kane, PA | 16735 | 814 |
| Keating Summit, PA | 16749 | 814 |
| Kendall Creek, PA | 16701 | 814 |
| Lewis Run, PA | 16738 | 814 |
| Ludlow, PA | 16333 | 814 |
| Mount Jewett, PA | 16740 | 814 |
| Ormsby, PA | 16726 | 814 |
| Point Allegany, PA | 16743 | 814 |
| Port Allegany, PA | 16743 | 814 |
| Rew, PA | 16744 | 814 |
| Rixford, PA | 16745 | 814 |
| Smethport, PA | 16749 | 814 |
| Turtlepoint, PA | 16750 | 814 |
| Westline, PA | 16740 | 814 |
Major Cities and Towns in McKean County, Pennsylvania
1. Bradford
Location and History
Bradford is located in the western part of McKean County, near the border with New York. The city was founded in the late 19th century during the Pennsylvania oil boom, with the discovery of oil in the area leading to rapid growth and development. Bradford became one of the leading oil-producing towns in the world during the early 1900s, and the oil industry was central to its economy for several decades. As the oil industry declined, Bradford diversified its economy, focusing on manufacturing, tourism, and education. Today, the city is known for its charming historic districts, beautiful architecture, and as the home of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 2.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 8,500
- Zip Codes: 16701
- Latitude: 41.9576° N
- Longitude: 78.6272° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bradford is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, which offers a variety of undergraduate programs. The city also has public schools within the Bradford Area School District, with Bradford Area High School as the main secondary school. Major landmarks in Bradford include the Bradford Landmark Society, which preserves the city’s history, and the Zippo/Case Museum, dedicated to the iconic Zippo lighter company headquartered in the city. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby parks like the Allegheny National Forest, which offers hiking, fishing, and other recreational activities.
2. Kane
Location and History
Kane is a small borough located in the southeastern part of McKean County, nestled within the Allegheny Mountains. Established in the mid-19th century, Kane became a significant hub for the lumber industry due to its proximity to vast forested areas. By the late 1800s, the town was known for its timber mills and served as an important center for timber production. In the 20th century, Kane transitioned from a lumber-based economy to one centered around agriculture and tourism, owing to its location in the picturesque Allegheny Highlands. The town today retains its rustic charm, with a small but vibrant community focused on outdoor recreation and historic preservation.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,000
- Zip Codes: 16735
- Latitude: 41.6639° N
- Longitude: 78.7986° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kane is served by the Kane Area School District, with Kane Area High School as the main high school. The town is known for its scenic beauty, with numerous outdoor recreational opportunities nearby, including the Allegheny National Forest, which attracts visitors for hiking, camping, and fishing. Key landmarks in Kane include the Kane Depot, a historic railroad station, and the nearby Chapman State Park, offering trails and picnic areas. The town also celebrates its timber heritage with events like the Kane Timber and Art Festival, drawing visitors each year to experience local arts, crafts, and historical exhibits.
3. Smethport
Location and History
Smethport is a small town located in the central part of McKean County, along the Allegheny River. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and quickly grew into a regional center for lumber and coal mining industries. The town’s location along the river made it an important transportation route for goods and raw materials, contributing to its early economic prosperity. By the 20th century, Smethport evolved into a quieter residential community, though its history in the timber and mining industries remains a significant part of its identity. Smethport today is a charming town that embraces its history while also offering access to outdoor activities in the surrounding hills and forests.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Zip Codes: 16749
- Latitude: 41.8039° N
- Longitude: 78.4530° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Smethport is served by the Smethport Area School District, with Smethport Area High School as the primary secondary school. The town’s historic district features several 19th-century buildings, including the McKean County Courthouse and the Smethport Heritage Center, which showcases the town’s history. Smethport is also home to the Allegheny National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The town hosts annual events such as Smethport’s Harvest Festival, celebrating local culture, food, and crafts, attracting visitors from around the region.
4. Eldred
Location and History
Eldred is a small town located in the northeastern corner of McKean County, near the New York state border. It was established in the 19th century as a settlement for the area’s growing lumber and oil industries. Eldred became a key location for the petroleum industry in the early 20th century, with oil production being one of its main economic drivers. Although the oil boom eventually waned, the town continued to thrive due to its rural charm, farming, and small businesses. Today, Eldred is known for its strong community spirit and is a gateway to the Allegheny National Forest, offering access to outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Zip Codes: 16731
- Latitude: 41.8045° N
- Longitude: 78.5514° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eldred is part of the Eldred Area School District, with Eldred High School serving as the town’s main secondary school. The town is home to several historic landmarks, such as the Eldred World War II Museum, which honors the local residents who served in the war and provides insight into the town’s history. Eldred is also known for its proximity to the Allegheny National Forest, which offers recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. The town’s location near the forest makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and those looking to experience the beauty of the region.
5. Port Allegany
Location and History
Port Allegany is located in the northern part of McKean County, along the Allegheny River. The town was established in the 19th century as a hub for the timber industry, with the river providing an important transportation route for logs and other goods. In the 20th century, Port Allegany diversified its economy, incorporating industries such as agriculture, retail, and manufacturing. The town is nestled within a rural area surrounded by forests and hills, making it a quiet, scenic place to live. Port Allegany remains a small but resilient community with a strong sense of local pride.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000
- Zip Codes: 16743
- Latitude: 41.8032° N
- Longitude: 78.2986° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Port Allegany is served by the Port Allegany School District, with Port Allegany High School as the main secondary school. The town features a variety of outdoor recreation options, including the nearby Allegheny National Forest and the Allegheny River, which offer fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. Notable landmarks in Port Allegany include the Port Allegany Historic District, with several 19th-century buildings, and the nearby Kinzua Bridge State Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and the remains of the Kinzua Viaduct. The town hosts local events like the Allegheny River Fest, celebrating the region’s natural beauty and heritage.
