Chester County, Pennsylvania

Chester County, Pennsylvania

Chester County, Pennsylvania is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. As of the 2020 census, the population was 534,413. The county seat is West Chester. Chester County is part of the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Chester County was one of the three original counties created by William Penn in 1682. The county was named after the city of Chester, England. Originally, it encompassed a much larger area, but over time, portions of the county were used to form Lancaster County and Delaware County.

Geography

Chester County is characterized by its rolling hills and fertile farmland. The county is part of the Piedmont region, which is known for its rich soil and agricultural productivity. The Schuylkill River forms part of the county's northeastern border.

Adjacent counties

• Berks County (north)
• Montgomery County (northeast)
• Delaware County (east)
• New Castle County, Delaware (south)
• Cecil County, Maryland (southwest)
• Lancaster County (west)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Chester County had a population of 534,413. The county has a diverse population with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities. The largest city in the county is West Chester, which serves as the county seat.

Economy

Chester County has a strong and diverse economy. Key industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county is home to several major corporations and is part of the Philadelphia Main Line, a region known for its affluent communities and high quality of life.

Education

Chester County is served by several public school districts, private schools, and higher education institutions. Notable institutions include West Chester University of Pennsylvania and Immaculata University.

Transportation

Chester County is well-connected by a network of highways, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike and U.S. Route 202. Public transportation is provided by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), which operates bus and rail services in the region.

Points of Interest

• Longwood Gardens
• Valley Forge National Historical Park
• Brandywine River Museum of Art
• QVC Studio Park

Government

Chester County is governed by a board of three county commissioners. The county also has various elected officials, including a district attorney, sheriff, and treasurer.

Notable People

• Bayard Rustin, civil rights leader
• Jim Furyk, professional golfer
• Samuel Barber, composer

See Also

• List of counties in Pennsylvania
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Chester County, Pennsylvania