Westmoreland County offers building opportunities in Southwest, though some factors need consideration.
📊58/100AcreScore
💰$12KLand $/acre
🏠$175KHome Value
👥350,722Population
📈+-2%Growth (10yr)
🌊4%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold HumidClimateZone 5A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Westmoreland County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Westmoreland County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Pennsylvania requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Westmoreland County Building Department
Greensburg, PA
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 4% of Westmoreland County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones — well below the national average.
4%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $12,000 per acre, Westmoreland County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$12K
Median $/acre
$175K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.92%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Westmoreland County Assessor
📊
County Pulse — 2024 Building Permits
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey · Updated annually
Residential Permits
414
↑ 15.6% YoY
Single-Family
348
84% of total
Construction Value
$133.2M
$322K/unit avg
Prior Year
358
2023 permits
🔥 Westmoreland County saw strong growth in residential construction — a good sign for builder-friendly policies and land availability.
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Westmoreland County sits in the heart of Southwest. Pittsburgh is 30 min away. Pennsylvania has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
📈
Steady Community
A stable community with affordable growth — less speculation, more authentic rural living.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population350,722
10-Year Growth-2%
County SeatGreensburg
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Humid (Zone 5A)
How Close Is Everything?
Pittsburgh30 min
PIT40 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Westmoreland County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Greensburg. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageGood
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Westmoreland County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Westmoreland County?
Check with the Westmoreland County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Westmoreland County?
Median price is approximately $12,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Westmoreland County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Westmoreland County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Westmoreland County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.92%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Westmoreland County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Pennsylvania, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.