Is West Hazleton Safe, Pros and cons of living in West Hazleton
West Hazleton, a borough in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, offers a distinct blend of small-town charm and suburban accessibility. Its history is deeply intertwined with the anthracite coal mining industry, which attracted European immigrants and shaped the community’s early development. Today, West Hazleton has transitioned from its industrial past, focusing on manufacturing, commerce, and a residential character.
The borough provides a more relaxed pace of life, appealing to those seeking a close-knit community atmosphere. Its location offers proximity to larger urban centers while maintaining its own unique identity. This guide explores various facets of living in West Hazleton, from safety and cost of living to employment and education.
Is it Safe to Live in West Hazleton?
West Hazleton presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than the national average. Recent FBI data indicates a significantly lower property crime rate compared to national figures, suggesting a secure atmosphere for homes and businesses (as reported by FBI Crime Explorer). The borough has also reported a very low number of violent crimes in recent years, further contributing to its safety profile.
While overall crime rates are favorable, it’s important to note that perceptions of safety can vary within any community. Some resident reviews suggest concerns about safety and crime, particularly in relation to drugs and violence, though these sentiments may not reflect the broader statistical data (as noted by Niche user reviews). Law enforcement presence and community engagement remain key factors in maintaining and enhancing the safety of West Hazleton.
Housing Market and Cost of Living
West Hazleton stands out for its affordability, particularly in the housing sector. The median home value is substantially lower than the national average, making homeownership a more attainable goal for many (as reported by Niche). This affordability extends to rental properties as well, with average rents also falling below national benchmarks (as reported by Zillow Rentals data).
The cost of living in West Hazleton is generally competitive, though some expenses may be higher than the national average. While housing costs are lower, utility prices and transportation expenses can be slightly higher (as reported by PayScale). However, the overall lower cost of living, especially regarding housing, can significantly offset these differences, making West Hazleton an economically attractive option for residents.
Home Prices and Rental Costs
The median home price in West Hazleton has seen fluctuations, with recent data indicating figures around $151,800 (as reported by Data USA) and other sources placing it near $99,800 (as reported by Kurby AI). These figures are considerably lower than the national median home value, which hovers around $332,700 (as reported by Niche). The housing market is described as competitive, with homes selling relatively quickly and sometimes receiving multiple offers (as reported by Redfin).
For those who prefer renting, the average rent for various property types in West Hazleton is approximately $1,200 per month (as reported by Zillow Rentals data). This is also below the national average rent, further emphasizing the borough’s affordability for housing. Townhouses and multifamily units typically range from $150,000 to $300,000, while single-family homes can range from $140,000 to $350,000 (as reported by Homes.com).
Overall Cost of Living
West Hazleton’s cost of living is approximately 2% higher than the national average, according to PayScale. This slight increase is primarily influenced by higher utility and transportation costs, which are 15% and 13% higher than the national average, respectively. Grocery prices are also marginally higher, by about 3% compared to the national average.
Conversely, healthcare costs in West Hazleton are significantly lower, being 25% below the national average (as reported by PayScale). The median household income in West Hazleton is reported around $34,118 (as reported by Data USA), with other sources indicating figures closer to $46,856 (as reported by Kurby AI). While these incomes are lower than the national average, the substantially lower housing costs and other savings contribute to a manageable cost of living.
Job Market and Economy
The economy of West Hazleton has evolved from its historical reliance on coal mining to a more diversified landscape. Major employers in the greater Hazleton area, which includes West Hazleton, span various sectors including distribution, manufacturing, healthcare, and education (as identified by CAN DO, Inc.). This diversification provides a range of employment opportunities for residents.
The job market in West Hazleton has seen some recent shifts, with a slight decline in overall employment noted between recent years (as reported by Data USA). However, key industries like manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing continue to be significant employment hubs for the area. The presence of industrial parks, such as Valmont Industrial Park, further supports the local economy by attracting businesses and creating jobs.
Major Employers
Several large companies operate as major employers in the greater Hazleton region, providing a substantial number of jobs. These include major players in distribution and retail like Amazon, Walmart, and American Eagle Outfitters. Manufacturing is also a strong sector, with companies such as Bemis, Fabri-Kal Corp, and Silgan White Cap contributing significantly to employment (as listed by CAN DO, Inc.).
Healthcare and education are also key employment sectors, with Lehigh Valley Hospital Hazleton and the Hazleton Area School District being significant employers. Additionally, companies like FedEx Supply Chain and Cargill Meat Solutions offer diverse job opportunities. These major employers underscore the varied economic base that supports the West Hazleton community.
Employment and Wages
As of recent data, the average annual salary in West Hazleton is approximately $46,956, which translates to about $22.57 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The salary range typically falls between $32,733 and $57,384, depending on occupation and experience. In the broader Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton metropolitan area, the average hourly wage was $26.59 in May 2024, which is lower than the national average of $32.66 (as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
The most common job groups for West Hazleton residents include material moving, office and administrative support, and production occupations (as reported by Data USA). Employment sectors with the highest number of residents working in them are retail trade, transportation and warehousing, and manufacturing. While the unemployment rate for the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton MSA has shown some fluctuations, it remains a key economic indicator for the region.
Climate and Environment
West Hazleton experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold and can bring significant snowfall. The area receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, distributed across the months.
The climate data for West Hazleton, PA, is recorded by NOAA, providing insights into temperature and precipitation patterns. Understanding these patterns is helpful for residents in preparing for seasonal weather changes and planning outdoor activities. The average annual precipitation is around 46.15 inches (as reported by NOAA Climate Normals 1991).
Temperature and Precipitation
Detailed temperature data for West Hazleton is available through NOAA Climate Normals, which provide historical averages. The region experiences typical four-season weather. Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the overall annual precipitation, which averages approximately 46.15 inches (as reported by NOAA Climate Normals 1991).
While specific average monthly temperatures are not detailed in the provided search results, the general climate is characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Residents can expect a range of temperatures throughout the year, with variations typical for a Northeastern Pennsylvania location. The National Weather Service provides current and extended forecasts for the West Hazleton area.
Education and Schools
Students in West Hazleton are part of the Hazleton Area School District, which serves a large student population across multiple grade levels. The district receives an overall C rating from Niche, indicating a mixed performance across various educational metrics. West Hazleton Elementary/Middle School serves younger students from kindergarten through eighth grade.
The quality of education and school resources are important considerations for families. While the Hazleton Area School District has strengths in certain areas, such as diversity, other aspects like resources and facilities have received lower grades (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that a portion of students are proficient in math and reading, though there is room for improvement.
School Performance and Ratings
West Hazleton Elementary/Middle School holds a C-minus rating from Niche, with a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1. State test scores show that 13% of students are proficient in math and 38% in reading (as reported by Niche). Hazleton Area High School, which serves older students, has a C+ rating (as reported by Niche).
Reviews from residents sometimes highlight concerns about school resources and the ability of staff to manage large class sizes. Some parents have expressed that the schools may be overpopulated and underfunded, impacting the quality of education provided. However, the Hazleton Area School District is also recognized for its diversity, ranking among the top diverse school districts in Pennsylvania (as reported by Niche).
Demographics and Community
West Hazleton is a borough with a population of approximately 5,178 residents, offering a sparse suburban feel (as reported by Niche). The community is diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino population, alongside White, Black or African American, and other racial groups (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in West Hazleton is around 33.1 years, with slightly older median ages for males than females.
The borough’s history is marked by significant European immigration, driven by the coal mining industry, which has contributed to its cultural fabric. While the demographic makeup has evolved, a sense of community persists, with many residents owning their homes. The political leaning of the residents tends to be conservative.
Population and Diversity
As of the 2020 census, West Hazleton had a population of 5,167 people (as reported by Wikipedia). The borough’s population has seen a slight increase since the most recent census, with an estimated 5,262 residents in 2026 (as reported by World Population Review). The community is characterized by a notable Hispanic or Latino population, which has grown significantly over the years (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).
Racial demographics show a significant percentage of residents identifying as “other race,” followed by White, and then Black or African American residents (as reported by Data USA). West Hazleton is also recognized for its diversity, ranking among the most diverse suburbs and places to live in Pennsylvania (as reported by Niche). This diversity enriches the community’s cultural landscape.
Community Feel and Lifestyle
Living in West Hazleton offers a blend of community spirit and a relaxed lifestyle. Many residents own their homes, contributing to a stable and established neighborhood feel. The borough is described as having a sparse suburban character, with access to amenities like restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.
Historically, West Hazleton was a hub for entertainment and social gatherings, with landmarks like Hazle Park and Cranberry Ballpark. While those specific attractions may have changed, the community continues to foster a sense of togetherness through local events and organizations. The borough is considered well-suited for first-time homebuyers and those seeking a more tranquil pace of life (as noted by Kurby AI).