Upper Burrell’s population is growing, a phenomenon likely driven by a number of factors, including a low cost of living and competent local leadership.

Data show Upper Burrell’s population jumped from 2,056 in 2010 to 2,386 in 2019 — an increase of 16%.

“It has a number of great factors going for it, and it’s certainly a bright spot,” said state Sen. Joe Pittman, R-Indiana.

One major factor that brings people to Upper Burrell is a low tax rate, said Ross Walker III, chairman of Upper Burrell’s board of supervisors. The tax rate of 10.5 mills hasn’t risen in at least a decade.

“We’re maintaining our excellent status quo of low taxes,” Walker said.

Families have been drawn to the community because of low taxes and the Burrell School District, Walker said.

“Young people are moving here because the cost to live in the township is low, and it’s a great place to raise your family,” he said. “It’s just a very attractive place to live, and people know that.”

Walker also highlighted the community’s 24-hour police force, its volunteer fire company and its well-maintained roads as additional perks that draw people to the area.

Located within the community are the Alcoa Technical Center, Penn State New Kensington and the Westmoreland Business and Research Park — all entities that drive people to Upper Burrell. More than 3,000 people are employed in Upper Burrell, Walker said.

Pittman said strong local leadership also has helped Upper Burrell’s population flourish.

He highlighted Walker, who has served as the chairman of the board of supervisors for over 20 years, as a local leader who “has done a very good job of managing that municipality.”

Local leaders, Pittman said, are tasked with responsibly managing population growth and considering its impact on things such as local infrastructure.

“They have a responsibility to make sure they manage the growth in a common sense way,” he said. “I think they’re prepared to manage growth.”

Along with its recent population growth, Walker said, local leaders also hope to expand business opportunities in the community.

“I consider Upper Burrell the jewel of Westmoreland County,” Walker said. “Things are going great in Upper Burrell.”

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