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Altoona, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA
Altoona, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA: What the data shows
Altoona, PA is in Altoona, PA while Wilkes-Barre, PA is in Wilkes-Barre, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Altoona, PA is the more affordable option at $134,700 median — $88,400 less than Wilkes-Barre, PA's $223,100. WYLT rates Altoona, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wilkes-Barre, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Altoona, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wilkes-Barre, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Altoona, PA has Low flood risk and Wilkes-Barre, PA has Low flood risk.
Wilkes-Barre, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Altoona, PA scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Wilkes-Barre, PA's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Wilkes-Barre, PA has the higher school rating — Altoona, PA rates 5.6/10 and Wilkes-Barre, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Altoona, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $135K ✓ Lower price | $223K |
| Median Rent | $797 | $763 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $55K ✓ Higher income | $31K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 55/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 90 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time homebuyersRetirees seeking affordable living | StudentsLow‑income familiesRetirees looking for cheap housing |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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