Monroe County, Pennsylvania

2022-08-15 14 07 36 View east along Interstate 80 (Keystone Shortway) from the overpass for the ramp from Pennsylvania State Route 611 in Smithfield Township, Monroe County, Pennsylvania

Map of Monroe County Pennsylvania School Districts

Big Pocono State Park view south from Camelback Mountain

Inn At Pocono Manor Pool %26 Front of Main Building

The Shawnee Inn

Monroe County, Pennsylvania is a county located in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 170,271. The county seat is Stroudsburg. Monroe County is included in the New York metropolitan area, as well as the larger New York–Newark–Jersey City, NY–NJ–PA Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is located in the eastern part of Pennsylvania and is bordered by the Delaware Water Gap to the east, which separates it from the state of New Jersey.

History

Monroe County was created on April 1, 1836, from parts of Northampton County and Pike County. It was named in honor of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, who served from 1817 to 1825. The area has a rich history, with its development closely tied to the Delaware River, which was a critical route for transportation and trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Geography

The county has a total area of 617 square miles, of which 608 square miles is land and 9 square miles (1.5%) is water. Monroe County is characterized by its scenic landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterways. The Pocono Mountains, a popular recreational destination, are located in the northern part of the county. The county's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities attract visitors year-round.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, Monroe County had a population of 170,271. The demographic makeup of the county has changed significantly over the years, with a notable increase in residents commuting to New York City and Northern New Jersey for work, leading to a population boom in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Economy

The economy of Monroe County is diverse, with a mix of manufacturing, service industries, and tourism. The Pocono Mountains region is a major tourist destination, known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, fishing, and camping. The county also hosts several large employers in the healthcare, education, and retail sectors.

Education

Monroe County is served by several school districts, including the East Stroudsburg Area School District, the Stroudsburg Area School District, and the Pocono Mountain School District. There are also private schools and higher education institutions, including Northampton Community College's Monroe Campus.

Transportation

The county is served by several major roads, including Interstate 80, which provides direct access to New York City and the rest of the Pocono Mountains region. Public transportation options include bus services provided by the Monroe County Transit Authority, known as the "Pocono Pony."

Government

Monroe County operates under a three-member County Commission system, with commissioners elected to four-year terms. The county government oversees various services, including law enforcement, public health, and social services.

Communities

Monroe County is composed of various boroughs, townships, and census-designated places (CDPs). The largest communities include the borough of Stroudsburg, the county seat, and East Stroudsburg. Other notable communities include Mount Pocono, Tannersville, and Brodheadsville.