10/09/2026
Amish families are not abandoning Pennsylvania, but many are relocating from Lancaster County to cheaper farmland in western Pennsylvania and nearby states such as Maryland, Ohio, Kentucky, Missouri, and New York due to population growth and soaring land prices.
Overview
Research shows Pennsylvania still has the largest Amish population in the U.S., with about 95,000 Amish residents as of 2025. However, Lancaster County—the largest Amish settlement—faces severe farmland scarcity and extremely high land prices, prompting outward migration. local21news.com
Why They Are Moving
- Farmland scarcity & high prices: Lancaster farmland can cost USD 40,000–60,000 per acre, pushing younger families to seek affordable land elsewhere.
jonathancribbs.com
- Rapid population growth: The Amish population doubles roughly every 20 years due to large families and high retention rates.
visittheamish.com
- Limited farming opportunities: Only about one‑third of Amish families can farm full‑time today, increasing the need to relocate for agricultural livelihoods.
Where They Are Going
- Within Pennsylvania: Westward into Adams County, Chester County, Dauphin County, and Berks County.
- Maryland: Significant movement into northern Maryland counties such as Carroll, Frederick, and Cecil.
- Other states: New settlements are growing in Missouri, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and upstate New York.
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Are They Leaving Pennsylvania Altogether?
No. Pennsylvania remains the center of Amish life, but out‑migration is increasing as families seek affordable farmland and space for growing communities. This trend reflects expansion, not decline, of the Amish population.
