"harper valley pta" opened in six theaters in lebanon, cincinnati, and dayton, ohio, on may 23, 1978, in accordance with executive producer phil borack's plan to release the film first in smaller markets, where regional success could encourage exhibitors in bigger cities to book the film. the film grossed over $2 million its opening weekend, $5.8 million in its first three weeks and over $16 million after 12 weeks. the film opened in limited release on june 2, 1978; in los angeles on august 2, 1978; and in new york city on january 12, 1979.