Wilkes-Barre, PA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Wilkes-Barre, PA Utility & Living Guide

Wilkes-Barre offers a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm in the heart of Pennsylvania's Wyoming Valley.

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 — Wilkes-Barre
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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 Wilkes-Barre 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

The housing market in Wilkes-Barre is moderately priced compared to national averages, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. Demand has been steady, with affordability attracting first-time buyers.

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%.

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
+0.5% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in healthcare, education, and logistics
Top Local Concerns
Property taxes, public safety, infrastructure maintenance
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited but stroller-friendly with accessible buses and sidewalks in downtown areas.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Luzerne County Historical Society
  • 🎯
    Kirby Park
  • 🎯
    F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Heights and South Wilkes-Barre are popular for families, offering good schools and parks. Downtown areas provide walkability and amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Wilkes-Barre based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents must obtain permits for home renovations and adhere to snow removal ordinances in winter.

Wilkes-Barre is seeing growth in healthcare and education sectors, with local universities driving economic activity. Affordable housing continues to attract new residents.

Financial Tools

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📊 Wilkes-Barre — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs peak in winter due to heating needs, with gas bills often doubling. Summer sees moderate increases from air conditioning use.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates vary by municipality, with Wilkes-Barre city rates higher than surrounding areas.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10 with explanation: Sidewalks are generally well-maintained downtown but uneven in older neighborhoods. Parks are accessible but transit options are limited for families.

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