Is Archbald Safe, Pros and cons of living in Archbald
Archbald, a borough nestled in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban comfort and rural tranquility. Its community is characterized by a strong sense of homeownership, with a significant majority of residents owning their homes rather than renting. The borough is known for its numerous parks, providing ample green space for recreation and relaxation, contributing to a generally peaceful atmosphere.
The demographic makeup of Archbald indicates a stable population, with a median age that suggests a community with a mix of established residents and families. Residents tend to hold moderate political views, fostering a generally balanced community dynamic. The local public school system is recognized for its above-average performance, adding to the appeal for families considering a move to the area.
Is it Safe to Live in Archbald?
Archbald is considered a relatively safe place to live, with crime rates that are lower than both the national and state averages. The overall crime rate is significantly lower than the national average per 100,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes). This positive safety profile is attributed to low rates of both violent and property crimes, offering residents a sense of security.
Violent crime rates in Archbald are notably lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). While specific crime statistics can fluctuate, the general trend indicates a community where residents are less likely to be victims of crime compared to many other areas. The town’s safety is further supported by its good air quality and the accessibility of health facilities (as reported by Kurby AI).
Crime Statistics and Trends
The crime rate in Archbald is reported to be 16.58 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (as reported by AreaVibes). This figure is considerably lower than the national average, positioning Archbald as safer than a significant percentage of U.S. cities. The town generally experiences fewer crimes than many comparable areas, contributing to its reputation as a secure community.
Your chance of being a victim of crime in Archbald varies by neighborhood, with some areas being safer than others. However, the overall trend shows a lower likelihood of victimization compared to national statistics. Crime-related costs per resident in Archbald are also lower than the national and state averages (as reported by AreaVibes), reflecting the town’s lower incidence of crime.
Neighborhood Safety
Residents often consider the southwest part of Archbald to be the safest area within the borough. Conversely, the northwest neighborhoods may experience a slightly higher incidence of crime, though still within a context of overall safety. The distribution of crime incidents shows fewer occurrences in the southeast part of the city compared to the south (as reported by AreaVibes).
This neighborhood-level analysis can be valuable for those seeking specific areas within Archbald that align with their safety preferences. The consistent reporting of lower-than-average crime rates across the borough underscores Archbald’s commitment to resident safety.
Housing and Cost of Living
Archbald presents an attractive housing market, with median home values that are significantly lower than the national average. The median home value in Archbald is approximately $217,000 (as reported by Niche and U.S. Census Bureau). This affordability makes homeownership more accessible for a wider range of individuals and families.
The cost of living in Archbald is also generally lower than the national average. While utility prices and transportation expenses might be slightly higher than the national average, overall housing costs are lower, contributing to a favorable cost of living index (as reported by Livability.com and PayScale). This makes Archbald a more budget-friendly option for many.
Housing Market Trends
The Archbald housing market is described as very competitive, with home prices showing an upward trend. In March 2026, Archbald home prices were up 3.7% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $243,000 (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Archbald tend to stay on the market for a longer period compared to some other areas, averaging 123 days in March 2026 (as reported by Redfin).
Despite the competitiveness, the median sale price per square foot in Archbald is $166, reflecting a notable increase of 40.1% over the past year (as reported by Redfin). This appreciation in home values suggests a healthy and growing real estate market within the borough.
Rental Market
For those considering renting, Archbald offers a median rent that is considerably lower than the national average. The median rent in Archbald is approximately $966 per month (as reported by Niche and U.S. Census Bureau). This is substantially less than the national median rent of $1,413 (as reported by Niche).
The average rent for all property types in Archbald is around $1,183 per month, with a slight month-over-month decrease and a year-over-year increase (as reported by Zillow). This indicates a stable rental market that provides various options for renters.
Cost of Living Breakdown
Archbald’s overall cost of living is approximately 4% lower than the U.S. national average and 18% lower than Pennsylvania’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). This is driven by lower housing costs, which are about 44% lower than the national average. Utility prices are 15% higher than the national average, and transportation expenses are 13% higher (as reported by PayScale).
Food expenses in Archbald are about 3% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). However, healthcare costs are notably lower, being 25% lower than the national average (as reported by PayScale). These factors combine to make Archbald a more affordable place to live, especially when considering housing expenses.
Job Market and Economy
The Archbald economy is supported by a growing employment sector, with a slight increase in the number of employed residents. From 2023 to 2024, employment in Archbald grew by 0.628%, with the number of employees increasing from 3.66k to 3.69k (as reported by Data USA). The unemployment rate in Archbald stands at 1.4%, which is well below the national average (as reported by Point2Homes).
This low unemployment rate suggests strong job prospects and a healthy local economy, indicating a good environment for those seeking employment or career advancement. The workforce is primarily engaged in sectors such as Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA).
Major Employers and Industries
Key employment sectors in Archbald include Health Care & Social Assistance, which employs a significant number of residents, followed by Educational Services and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). These industries form the backbone of the local job market, providing a diverse range of opportunities.
The most common job groups within Archbald are in Sales & Related Occupations, Management Occupations, and Health Diagnosing & Treating Practitioners & Other Technical Occupations (as reported by Data USA). Some of the top-paying jobs in the area include Dental Sales Representative and positions within Lockheed Martin, with Electrician also being a well-compensated role (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Salaries and Wages
The average annual salary in Archbald is approximately $50,251, which breaks down to about $24.16 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Most salaries in Archbald fall between $34,750 and $62,000 annually, representing the 25th to 75th percentile (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Archbald was reported as $71,936 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA).
However, there are specific roles that offer significantly higher compensation. For instance, a Dental Sales Representative can earn up to $89,622 annually, and positions at Lockheed Martin can reach $83,766 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). These higher-paying jobs contribute to the overall economic health of the community.
Unemployment and Labor Force
Archbald boasts a low unemployment rate of 1.4%, which is considerably lower than the national average (as reported by Point2Homes). This figure reflects a robust labor market where most individuals who are able and willing to work are employed. The overall unemployment rate in Archbald is 3.5% when calculated among residents aged 16 or older who are in the labor force (as reported by Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History).
A significant portion of Archbald residents are in the labor force, with 67.4% of those aged 16 and older participating (as reported by Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History). This high labor force participation rate indicates a community that is actively engaged in the economy.
Climate and Weather
Archbald experiences distinct seasons, with warm, wet summers and cold, snowy winters. The temperature typically ranges from 19°F to 80°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 4°F or exceeding 88°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures around 79°F and lows of 62°F.
Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average low temperatures of 20°F and highs of 32°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The borough receives a significant amount of snowfall during the winter months, contributing to its cold-weather climate.
Seasonal Temperatures
The warm season in Archbald lasts from late May to mid-September, during which daily high temperatures consistently stay above 70°F. The hottest part of this season is typically July, offering warm days perfect for outdoor activities. The cold season spans from early December to early March, with average daily high temperatures remaining below 42°F.
During the winter, daily low temperatures hover around 20°F, making it essential to prepare for freezing conditions. The transition periods of spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, with average highs in the spring ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s and autumn temperatures falling from the mid-60s to the mid-40s.
Precipitation and Rainfall
Archbald experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest month typically being May, receiving approximately 2.56 inches of rain. The driest months are January and September, with around 1.73 inches of rain (as reported by Weather Spark). The total annual rainfall is approximately 25.94 inches (as reported by Weather Spark).
Snowfall is a significant factor during the winter months, with accumulation occurring from January through May and again from October through December. January generally sees the most snowfall. The weather patterns contribute to the lush green landscapes during the warmer months.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine
The amount of cloud cover in Archbald varies significantly throughout the year. The clearest part of the year generally runs from early June to early November, with August being the clearest month. During this time, the sky is clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy about 62% of the time (as reported by Weather Spark).
Conversely, the cloudier period begins in November and lasts until June. January is typically the cloudiest month, with overcast or mostly cloudy skies occurring around 64% of the time (as reported by Weather Spark). This seasonal variation in cloud cover influences the amount of sunshine residents experience throughout the year.
Education and Schools
Archbald’s public school system is highly regarded, with schools generally receiving above-average ratings. The public schools in Archbald are considered above average, contributing to the town’s appeal for families with school-aged children (as reported by Niche). This suggests a commitment to providing quality education within the community.
Specific schools like Jefferson Elementary School and North Pocono High School have received strong ratings, such as a B+ from Niche. These positive assessments reflect the academic performance and overall environment of the local educational institutions.
School District Performance
The Valley View School District, which serves Archbald, has an overall Niche grade of B- (as reported by Niche). Within this district, schools like Valley View High School are noted for their academic achievements, with a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10 and an average GPA of 3.62 (as reported by Homes.com). The district demonstrates a strong focus on student success.
Valley View Intermediate School, serving grades 3-5, has a GreatSchools Rating of 4 out of 10 and a Niche grade of C+ (as reported by Homes.com). While performance can vary between different levels, the district as a whole strives to provide a solid educational foundation for its students.
Student-Teacher Ratios and Proficiency
The student-teacher ratio in Archbald’s public schools is generally favorable, contributing to more personalized attention for students. For example, Valley View High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 (as reported by Homes.com). This ratio allows for more individualized instruction and support.
Academic proficiency is a key metric for school performance. In Valley View High School, 72% of students achieve proficiency in math, and 77% are proficient in reading (as reported by Homes.com). These figures indicate a strong academic environment within the school district.
Educational Opportunities
Archbald offers a range of educational opportunities beyond the standard K-12 curriculum. The public schools provide access to AP courses, with specific enrollment numbers in AP Math and Science indicating student engagement in advanced studies (as reported by Homes.com). The district also boasts high rates of participation in both girls’ and boys’ athletics.
For higher education, graduates from the Valley View School District often pursue studies at nearby institutions such as the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Penn State (as reported by Niche). This proximity to higher education centers provides pathways for continued learning and career development.
Demographics and Population
Archbald is a borough with a population of approximately 7,404 residents, as of recent estimates (as reported by Data USA and Niche). The population has seen a slight increase, with projections indicating continued modest growth. The borough has a median age of 46.3 years, suggesting a community with a significant proportion of older adults (as reported by Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History).
The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with slightly more females than males. Archbald is characterized by a predominantly White population, with a very small percentage of residents identifying as belonging to other racial or ethnic groups (as reported by Data USA).
Population Characteristics
The racial makeup of Archbald is overwhelmingly White, with approximately 97.5% of residents identifying as White (as reported by Point2Homes and Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History). Other racial groups, such as Asian and those of Two or More Races, constitute very small percentages of the population (as reported by Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History).
The demographic data also indicates that a high percentage of Archbald residents are U.S. citizens, with a rate of 99.4% (as reported by Data USA). This highlights a stable and established community.
Age Distribution
Archbald’s population has a notable proportion of older adults, with a median age of 46.3 years (as reported by Archbald, Pennsylvania Population History). The age distribution shows that about 17% of the population is 65 years or older (as reported by Niche).
The younger demographic includes about 18.2% of the population under 15 years old and 10.6% in the 15 to 24 age group (as reported by Point2Homes). Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.7% of the population, with a larger segment, 34.4%, falling into the 45 to 64 bracket (as reported by Point2Homes).
Household and Family Structure
Archbald has a total of 3,107 households, with an average of two members per household (as reported by Point2Homes). A significant majority of these households, 70.9%, are families, while the remaining 29.1% consist of individuals living alone or with non-relatives (as reported by Point2Homes).
The owner-occupancy rate in Archbald is high, with approximately 76% of residents owning their homes (as reported by Niche). This strong preference for homeownership contributes to the stable community feel of the borough.
Pros and Cons of Living in Archbald
Archbald offers several advantages, including a lower-than-average cost of living, particularly in housing, and a safe environment with low crime rates. The community is known for its abundance of parks and a generally peaceful atmosphere, making it an attractive place for families and retirees. The public schools are also rated above average, adding to its appeal for those with children.
On the other hand, Archbald has limited amenities, which can be a drawback for those seeking a more vibrant urban experience. The area is heavily car-dependent, with a low Walk Score, meaning that most daily activities require a vehicle. While generally affordable, transportation expenses can be higher than the national average.
Key Advantages
The affordability of Archbald is a significant draw, with its cost of living being lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This is largely due to the lower median home values and rents compared to national figures. The town’s safety, characterized by low crime rates, provides residents with peace of mind and a secure living environment (as reported by AreaVibes).
Furthermore, Archbald’s numerous parks and green spaces offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The well-regarded public school system also stands out as a major advantage for families prioritizing education.
Potential Drawbacks
One of the primary disadvantages of Archbald is its limited availability of amenities, which has led to low scores in this category (as reported by AreaVibes). Residents may need to travel to nearby larger towns or cities for a wider selection of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The borough’s low Walk Score of 1 out of 100 highlights its car-dependent nature (as reported by Kurby AI).
While the overall cost of living is low, transportation expenses, including gas prices and bus fares, are higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). This can add to the daily expenses for those who rely on personal vehicles for commuting and daily errands.