Let the numbers do the talking.
Philadelphia, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA
Philadelphia, PA vs Wilkes-Barre, PA: What the data shows
Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA while Wilkes-Barre, PA is in Wilkes-Barre, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Wilkes-Barre, PA is the more affordable option at $223,100 median — $26,900 less than Philadelphia, PA's $250,000. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Wilkes-Barre, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Philadelphia, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Philadelphia, PA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wilkes-Barre, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk and Wilkes-Barre, PA has Low flood risk.
Philadelphia, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Philadelphia, PA scores 69/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Wilkes-Barre, PA's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Philadelphia, PA rates 7/10 and Wilkes-Barre, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $250K | $223K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $763 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $31K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 69/100 ✓ More walkable | 55/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 8 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals who value walkability and public transportationHomebuyers looking for a relatively affordable option with good schools | StudentsLow‑income familiesRetirees looking for cheap housing |
Bottom line
For families with school-age children and young professionals who prioritize walkability and public transportation, Philadelphia's 19125 neighborhood is the better choice. If you're a student, low-income family, or retiree on a tight budget, and don't need strong public transportation, Wilkes-Barre might suit your needs. The key consideration is whether the trade-offs in Wilkes-Barre's commute, crime, and schools outweigh its lower cost of living.
Share this comparison