What are the hidden costs of living in Wilkes-Barre?

Higher property taxes compared to neighboring cities Potential infrastructure maintenance costs in older buildings Occasional need for costly utilities upgrades in older homes

What is the median home price in Wilkes-Barre?

The median home price in Wilkes-Barre is approximately $223,100.

Is Wilkes-Barre walkable?

Wilkes-Barre has a Walk Score of 55 out of 100. Some errands can be done on foot.

Wilkes-Barre, PA

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There? · Covers: Wilkes-Barre, Wilkes Barre

Good for now

Verdict

$223K

Median Price

55/100

Walk Score

5.7/10

Schools

120 min

to Philadelphia

Score Breakdown

FAffordability

28/100

D+Safety

55/100

C-Schools

57/100

DQuietness

40/100

FCommute

15/100

D+Walkability

55/100

WYLT Score42/100

Our Take

Wilkes‑Barre offers a low‑cost living environment with a decent mix of schools and a moderately walkable downtown. It’s not a transit hub and has a moderate crime level, so it’s best suited for those who can work locally or remotely. If you’re looking for strong public transport or a vibrant nightlife scene, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Map

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The Good

✓Affordable housing market
✓Solid educational options with some high‑rating schools
✓Reasonably walkable downtown
✓Good for remote work thanks to decent internet

Real Talk

!High unemployment and low median income mean fewer local job opportunities
!Public transit options are minimal, making a car essential
!Crime rates are moderate, with both violent and property crime concerns
!Limited nightlife and dining options may feel stale for some
$Higher property taxes compared to neighboring cities
$Potential infrastructure maintenance costs in older buildings
$Occasional need for costly utilities upgrades in older homes

Best For

StudentsLow‑income familiesRetirees looking for cheap housingRemote workersFirst‑time home buyers

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeModerate

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityModerate

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Wilkes-Barre, PA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Moderate

3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

City-Data stats →

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From Residents

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