Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Overview

Wilkes-Barre scores 51.4/100 overall (C+), ranking #10 of 20 cities in Pennsylvania — below the state composite of 60.3. Education is the city’s relative strength at 80/100, while Outdoor Access lags at 20/100.

Income & Employment in Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre’s median income of $47,970 is 35% below the state median, but positive population growth of 0.5% signals that affordability or other factors are still attracting residents. The local unemployment rate is 4.4%.

Safety in Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre’s violent crime rate of 413.4 per 100,000 runs above the Pennsylvania average of 313. The property crime rate is 1540.6 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre has a cost of living index of 93 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly below the national benchmark. The median home value is $108,000. Median monthly rent is $939. Renters spend 23.5% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline.

Climate in Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 56.7°F. Summers average 73.8°F. Winters average 41.4°F. Annual precipitation is 47.6 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions