Let the numbers do the talking.
Lancaster, PA vs Scranton, PA
Lancaster, PA vs Scranton, PA: What the data shows
Lancaster, PA is in Lancaster, PA while Scranton, PA is in Scranton, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Scranton, PA is the more affordable option at $120,000 median — $176,800 less than Lancaster, PA's $296,800. WYLT rates Lancaster, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Scranton, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Lancaster, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Lancaster, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Scranton, PA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Lancaster, PA has Low flood risk and Scranton, PA has Low flood risk.
Scranton, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Lancaster, PA scores N/A/100 versus Scranton, PA's 37/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Lancaster, PA has the higher school rating — Lancaster, PA rates 6.8/10 and Scranton, PA rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Lancaster, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $297K | $120K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $860 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $93K ✓ Higher income | $35K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 37/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 95 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst-time homebuyersThose looking for a quiet, laid-back atmosphere | low income rentersbudget familiesstudents |
Bottom line
If you're a family or a first-time homebuyer looking for a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, Lancaster might be a slightly better fit due to its decent schools and relatively low cost of living despite a longer commute. However, for someone on a very tight budget who doesn't prioritize a strong sense of community, Scranton's cheaper prices and rental market might make it the better choice. Both neighborhoods require careful consideration and may suit specific needs over others.
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