Scranton, PA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Scranton, PA Utility & Living Guide

Scranton offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a unique place to live.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1200/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$320,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Scranton
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

PPL Electric Utilities
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

UGI Utilities
💧 Water

$45/mo

Pennsylvania American Water
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

City of Scranton Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead $305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1200/mo
2 Bedrooms$1600/mo
3 Bedrooms$2100/mo
Median Home Price$320,000
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

Scranton’s housing market is relatively affordable compared to national averages, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. Demand has been steady, with slight increases in home prices over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p>

Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax rate of 3.07%, with no local income taxes in Scranton.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+1.2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple (mix of Democratic and Republican voters)
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Property taxes, infrastructure maintenance, job opportunities
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited but stroller-friendly, with some bus routes offering low-floor boarding. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained in downtown areas.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Nay Aug Park
  • 🎯
    Everhart Museum
  • 🎯
    Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Green Ridge and Hill Section are popular for families due to their proximity to schools and parks. These areas offer a mix of historic homes and newer developments.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Scranton based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents must obtain permits for home renovations and adhere to strict zoning laws. Snow removal is mandatory for property owners during winter months.

Scranton's economy is seeing growth in healthcare and education sectors. The city is also investing in infrastructure improvements to attract more businesses.

Financial Tools

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📊 Scranton — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$44,161
👤 Median Age
37.5
🏠 Homeownership Rate
49.9%
🔑 Renter Rate
50.1%
📉 Poverty Rate
20.1%
💼 Unemployment Rate
5.8%
📡 Internet Access
82.6%
🎓 College Educated
20.8%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs peak in winter due to heating needs, while summer sees moderate increases from air conditioning usage. Spring and fall typically have lower utility bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates vary by school district, with Scranton School District at 1.2%. No local surtaxes specific to Scranton county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7/10: Sidewalks are generally good in downtown and residential areas, but some older neighborhoods may have uneven surfaces. Parks and public spaces are accessible.

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