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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 — $76,600 less than Philadelphia, PA's $299,700. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wilkes-Barre, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate 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 56/100 (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 6.8/10 and Wilkes-Barre, PA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $300K | $223K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $763 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $31K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 56/100 ✓ More walkable | 55/100 |
| Transit Score | 45/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsRemote workers | StudentsLow‑income familiesRetirees looking for cheap housing |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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