Let the numbers do the talking.
Philadelphia, PA vs Scranton, PA
Philadelphia, PA vs Scranton, PA: What the data shows
Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, 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 — $130,000 less than Philadelphia, PA's $250,000. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Scranton, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Philadelphia, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Philadelphia, PA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Scranton, PA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk and Scranton, PA has Low flood risk.
Philadelphia, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Philadelphia, PA scores 69/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Scranton, PA's 37/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Philadelphia, PA rates 7/10 and Scranton, PA rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $250K | $120K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $860 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $35K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 69/100 ✓ More walkable | 37/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 8 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals who value walkability and public transportationHomebuyers looking for a relatively affordable option with good schools | low income rentersbudget familiesstudents |
Bottom line
For young professionals who value walkability and public transportation as well as families with school-age children, Philadelphia's 19125 neighborhood is a better option due to its excellent schools, relatively low crime rates, and decent affordability. However, for budget-conscious renters with limited mobility or students who prioritize low costs, Scranton's affordability and cheap rents might make it a more viable choice.
Share this comparison