Let the numbers do the talking.
Harrisburg, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA
Harrisburg, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA: What the data shows
Harrisburg, PA is in Harrisburg, PA while Wilkes-Barre, PA is in Wilkes-Barre, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Harrisburg, PA is the more affordable option at $150,000 median — $73,100 less than Wilkes-Barre, PA's $223,100. WYLT rates Harrisburg, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Wilkes-Barre, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Wilkes-Barre, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Harrisburg, PA has High violent crime and High property crime. Wilkes-Barre, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Harrisburg, PA has Low flood risk and Wilkes-Barre, PA has Low flood risk.
Harrisburg, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Harrisburg, PA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Wilkes-Barre, PA's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Harrisburg, PA has the higher school rating — Harrisburg, PA rates 7/10 and Wilkes-Barre, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Harrisburg, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $150K ✓ Lower price | $223K |
| Median Rent | $947 | $763 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K ✓ Higher income | $31K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 55/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 120 min | 120 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsArtists and creatives | StudentsLow‑income familiesRetirees looking for cheap housing |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
Share this comparison