Moving to Wilkes Barre, PA?

Wilkes-Barre is home to around 44,300 residents, with a median age of 37.4 and a population density of 6,100 people per square mile. The city features a diverse community, with over 13% Black residents and nearly 8% speaking a language other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and multicultural makeup contribute to Wilkes-Barre's vibrant local character.

Population:

44,328

Density:

6,100 per sq mi

Median Age:

37.4

Gender Ratio:

94 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

7.8%

Ethnic Composition

White:

73.1%

Black:

13.0%

Asian:

2.2%

Others:

11.7%

Is Wilkes Barre, PA a safe place to live?

Wilkes-Barre experiences higher-than-average property crime rates, with a 1 in 38 chance of being affected, while violent crime remains less common at a rate of 1 in 235. Residents should take standard precautions but can still enjoy many safe neighborhoods. Overall, the city’s crime index reflects a greater need for community awareness.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

426

Property Crimes Per 100k:

2,642

Crime Index:

3,068

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 235

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 38

Local households in Wilkes-Barre have a median income of $41,568, with a notable poverty rate of 23.7%. The typical commute is a quick 18.5 minutes, and nearly 87% of adults have at least a high school diploma. The city’s diverse community and modest incomes shape a close-knit, working-class atmosphere.

Median Income:

$24,500

Household Income:

$41,568

Family Income:

$56,200

Per Capita Income:

$23,400

Income Male:

$32,600

Income Female:

$28,100

Poverty Rate:

23.7%

Non English Speakers:

7.8%

Rent:

$895

Unemployment Rate:

7.3%

Public Transport Usage:

2.8%

Commute Time:

18.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

86.6%

Bachelors or More:

17.2%

Wilkes-Barre offers access to quality healthcare, anchored by two major hospitals with emergency services and a physician availability rate of 2.3 per 1,000 residents. Health insurance coverage is high at over 92%, ensuring most locals can receive needed care. The city's healthcare infrastructure is well-suited for families and seniors alike.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital

Address:

575 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18764

Phone:

(570) 829-8111

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre

Address:

25 Church St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18765

Phone:

(570) 808-3100

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

2.3

Health Insurance Coverage:

92.1%

Health Care Index:

68.7

Wilkes-Barre residents are served by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), which provides licensing, registration, and vehicle services. The main office is located in Harrisburg, but residents can access many services online or by phone. PennDOT ensures efficient DMV operations for all Pennsylvania drivers.

State:

Pennsylvania

Department:

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)

Address:

1701 S. Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104

Phone:

1-800-932-4600

Website:

https://www.dmv.pa.gov