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Technology trends can indicate how well a region is keeping pace with resources and training that support technical innovation and new types of jobs. As well, having access to the Internet is increasingly essential for participating in much of modern life.
In 2016-20, 82% of households in Lancaster County had access to the Internet, slightly lower than Pennsylvania and the U.S (84% and 86% respectively). Compared to neighboring counties, Lancaster has the lowest share of connected households, varying from a few percentage points below most neighbors to 9 points below Chester. The City of Lancaster has a lower percentage of people with internet access, at 81%.
In 2020, 15% of residents in Lancaster County aged 25 or older had a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) degree. This was lower than both the state rate of 22% and national rate of 18% respectively. Lancaster County had the second largest percentage of STEM graduates behind Dauphin (36%).
Per-capita funding for science and engineering research and development in Lancaster County was $7 in 2020, exceeding $4 million. That was below the per-capita funding level of $372 for the state as a whole, and $12 for Chester County. While per-capita funding statewide has increased 27% since 2010, the funding level in Lancaster County has decreased 34%. Chester, Cumberland and Dauphin Counties have all experienced double-digit decreases in funding over this period.
In 2020, 6% of jobs in Lancaster County were considered high-tech, below both the state and national rates of 10% and 11% respectively. Chester County had the largest percentage of high-tech jobs at 17% and Lebanon County has the smallest percentage at 1%.
| INDICATORS | TREND |
|---|---|
| Households With Internet Access | Not Applicable |
| High-Tech Jobs | Increasing |
| STEM Graduates | Increasing |
| Science and Engineering Research and Development | Maintaining |
