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 — $179,700 less than Philadelphia, PA's $299,700. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — 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 Moderate 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 56/100 (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 6.8/10 and Scranton, PA rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $300K | $120K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $860 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $35K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 56/100 ✓ More walkable | 37/100 |
| Transit Score | 45/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 13 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 | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsRemote workers | low income rentersbudget familiesstudents |
Bottom line
For young professionals and families who prioritize proximity to job opportunities, schools, and amenities, Philadelphia is the better choice. It offers a more desirable quality of life, with a decent walk score, reasonable commute time, and a higher school rating. Scranton's drawbacks in terms of walkability and economy may outweigh its affordability for some individuals, but it's still a viable option for those with very limited budgets and a car.
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