The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) is pleased to share the latest Economic Intelligence Report for Berks County. Developed with the Lancaster EDC’s Center for Regional Analysis, this quarterly update explains how national and state trends affect our local economy. These insights are designed to help business leaders and community partners make informed decisions and prepare for the future.
In addition to the Q4 report, insights from GRCA’s recent State of the County reinforce a consistent message: Berks County is stabilizing and moving forward with key challenges to watch.
Highlights from both reports:
State of the County – Berks County Economic Insights presented by Rae Ann Miller, Director, Center for Regional Analysis, EDC Lancaster County
- Pennsylvania’s population growth – +2.0% vs. Berks County’s population growth – +4.8%
- The population is rising while the housing market remains constrained (see slide 7 of the slide deck)
- Employment rebounded – see Q4 2025 data below.
- Demographic shifts will continue to reshape workforce dynamics (see slides 16-20 of the slide deck)
The economy regained momentum in Q4.
- Berks County employment grew by 2,700 people in Q4. This brings local employment back to the same levels seen at the end of 2023 and 2024.
- The county’s unemployment rate remained low, ended the year at 3.7%. This is exactly the same as Pennsylvania’s overall unemployment rate for December.
- Local workers earned an average of $34.62 per hour in December. While wages rose 1.5% over the year, they did not keep up with the 2.7% national inflation rate. This means the purchasing power of Berks County workers has slightly declined.
- Despite the decrease in purchasing power, consumers are still spending money. The national GDP grew by 1.4% in Q4, mostly because consumer spending increased by 2.4%.
- The Federal Reserve cut interest rates twice during Q4. Each decreasing by 25 basis points or around 0.25% each time. The federal funds rate now sits between 3.50% and 3.75%.
To explore the full Berks County Economic Intelligence Report Q4 2025, complete with detailed charts and extra insights, please download the full report conducted by Lancaster EDC’s Center for Regional Analysis.
Why the Data Matters
Understanding these facts helps our community plan proactively for what is next. Even though employment is growing, it is important to monitor how high prices continue to affect consumer spending and purchasing power.
When business leaders are informed, they build better strategies that keep Berks County’s economy stable and strong.
GRCA’s Role
GRCA is dedicated to providing accurate economic data that supports strategic decision-making throughout the region. This report is part of our ongoing collaboration with Lancaster EDC’s Center for Regional Analysis to deliver the most useful local insights.