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 — $15,300 less than Philadelphia, PA's $135,300. WYLT rates Philadelphia, 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.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate violent crime and High 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 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Scranton, PA's 37/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Philadelphia, PA rates 6.7/10 and Scranton, PA rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $135K | $120K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $860 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $42K ✓ Higher income | $35K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 37/100 |
| Transit Score | 49/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 78/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 12 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | studentsbudget buyersbike commuters | low income rentersbudget familiesstudents |
Bottom line
Both Philadelphia and Scranton offer relatively low costs of living, but Scranton's cheaper rents and decent rental market make it a slightly more budget-friendly option, especially for those who don't need a high walk score or convenient public transit. If you're a remote worker with a car, Scranton might be the better choice for its affordability and accessibility by car. If you prioritize bikeability and a more vibrant downtown scene, however, the Philadelphia neighborhood might still be worth considering, despite its higher crime potential.
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