Is Wilkes-Barre Safe, Pros and cons of living in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers a distinct blend of urban amenities and a more relaxed pace of life, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing access to essential services. Nestled in the Wyoming Valley, the city provides a natural setting with proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities.
This city presents a unique proposition for potential residents, balancing economic realities with quality of life considerations. Understanding the various facets of living in Wilkes-Barre, from safety and cost of living to employment and education, is crucial for anyone contemplating a move to this Northeastern Pennsylvania locale.
Is it Safe to Live in Wilkes-Barre?
Wilkes-Barre’s overall crime rate is reported to be lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). However, specific crime statistics indicate a more nuanced picture, with violent crime rates being higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
Violent crimes in Wilkes-Barre, including offenses like murder, rape, robbery, and assault, occur at a rate that is 20.2% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, are 11.5% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Wilkes-Barre is approximately 1 in 232, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 65 (according to AreaVibes).
When considering safety, it’s important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some sources suggest that residents generally consider the west part of the city to be the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of violent crime compared to eastern neighborhoods (according to CrimeGrade.org). This highlights the importance of researching specific areas within Wilkes-Barre before making a decision.
Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre
Housing Costs
Wilkes-Barre presents a more affordable housing market compared to national averages. The median home price in Wilkes-Barre is approximately $172,140 (as reported by Zillow), and the median listing price is around $187,500 (according to Realtor.com® Research). This is significantly lower than the national median home value, which stands at $393,134 (according to BestNeighborhood.org).
Rental prices in Wilkes-Barre are also notably lower than the national average. The average rent is reported to be $1,350 per month (as per Zillow), with a range of $863 to $1,962 for apartments (according to Apartments.com). This affordability extends to overall living expenses, which are generally lower than the national average.
Overall Expenses
The cost of living in Wilkes-Barre is approximately 4% lower than the U.S. national average (as reported by Salary.com). Housing costs are a significant contributor to this affordability, being around 44.0% lower than the national average (according to Salary.com).
Other expenses, such as food, also tend to be below the national average. Food expenses run about 22.0% below average (as reported by Salary.com), making daily necessities more manageable for residents. Overall monthly expenses for a single person are estimated at $1,805, and for a family of four at $4,080 (according to Salary.com), positioning Wilkes-Barre as one of America’s less expensive cities.
Job Market and Economy
Employment Landscape
The unemployment rate in the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton, PA area was 5.10% as of April 2026 (according to YCharts). This rate is lower than the long-term average for the region, which is 6.81% (according to YCharts).
The city’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers. Major employers in the Luzerne County area include Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, the Federal Government, Amazon.com Services LLC, and various state government entities (as listed by the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce). Healthcare and education sectors are also significant contributors to the local job market.
Average Salary and Income
The average salary in Wilkes-Barre is approximately $54,727 annually, which equates to about $26.31 per hour (as of April 2026, according to ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Wilkes-Barre was $48,515 in 2024 (according to the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey), with a poverty rate of 23.1% (according to World Population Review).
Salaries can vary based on occupation and experience, with a typical range between $35,313 and $72,100 annually (according to ZipRecruiter). For instance, the average salary for a Physician Assistant in Wilkes-Barre is around $121,366 per year (according to Indeed).
Climate in Wilkes-Barre
Temperature and Seasons
Wilkes-Barre experiences a four-season climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The temperature typically ranges from 21°F to 83°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 7°F or exceeding 91°F (according to Weather Spark). The warmest month is July, with average highs around 83°F and lows of 64°F.
Winters are cold, with January being the coldest month, having average low temperatures of 22°F and highs of 35°F (according to Weather Spark). Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the distinct seasonal changes experienced in the region.
Precipitation
Wilkes-Barre receives an average of 38.72 inches of precipitation annually, which is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year (according to Wikipedia). Summer months tend to experience slightly more precipitation than other times of the year.
The surrounding mountains can influence local weather patterns, leading to variations in temperature and precipitation over short distances (according to Wikipedia). This geographical influence adds to the dynamic nature of the local climate.
Education in Wilkes-Barre
School District Performance
The Wilkes-Barre Area School District generally receives a C grade, with a rating of 3.66 out of 5 on Niche. According to state test scores, 27% of students are proficient in math and 51% in reading (according to Niche).
While the district has areas for improvement, some reviews mention that teachers and administration strive to create a safe environment for students, with security measures in place (according to Niche reviews). The district serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
Higher Education Opportunities
Wilkes-Barre is home to several institutions of higher learning, including Wilkes University and King’s College (according to Niche). These institutions offer a range of programs and contribute to the educational landscape of the city.
Additionally, Luzerne County Community College and Misericordia University are located nearby, providing further educational options for residents seeking to pursue higher education or vocational training. These institutions play a vital role in the community’s development and provide pathways for career advancement.
Demographics of Wilkes-Barre
Population and Diversity
Wilkes-Barre has a projected population of 45,969 for 2026 (according to CUBIT). The city’s population was recorded at 44,423 in 2024, making it one of the more populated cities in Pennsylvania (according to CUBIT). The city is considered more diverse than Pennsylvania overall (according to Census Dots).
The racial composition of Wilkes-Barre is diverse. White residents make up approximately 50.5% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at 33.8%, and Black residents at 9.7% (according to CUBIT). This demographic makeup reflects a rich cultural tapestry within the city.
Age and Income Distribution
The median age of residents in Wilkes-Barre is 34.7 years (according to CUBIT). This indicates a relatively young population compared to some other areas.
The median household income in Wilkes-Barre was $48,515 in 2024 (according to CUBIT), with a poverty rate of 23.1% (according to World Population Review). This income level is below the national average, contributing to the city’s overall affordability.