$173,972Average Value$121Average Price per Sq Ft83Homes For Sale
A city along the Susquehanna
On the banks of the Susquehanna River, Wilkes-Barre’s downtown is surrounded by residential sectors in the Wyoming Valley. The northeastern Pennsylvania city is home to over 44,000 and offers its residents a balance of city and outdoor lifestyles, having undergone a revival in recent years. “Over the last few years, we’ve had a huge surge of people from other states moving here, so the property values have really gone up,” says Antonio DeRosa, an associate broker with Lewith & Freeman Real Estate. “It’s a booming area again and it’s on the upswing. It’s a great place to move because of that.” As part of the Wyoming Valley, the city is often mentioned in the same breath as Scranton, which sits 20 miles north; the area’s two minor-league sports teams bear both cities’ names.
Wilkes-Barre has undergone gradual revitalization over the past half century, after flooding from Hurricane Agnes devastated the city in 1972. “After the flood, the city kind of died down a little bit,” DeRosa says. “The last few years, it’s really started to resurge again. There’s been a lot of new industry jobs moving to the area and a lot of redevelopment for residential housing, which was really needed.” Public Square can be considered one of the hearts of the city, serving as a central spot for community gatherings like Wilkes-Barre’s Christmas parade and a wintertime ice rink. The history of the area is rooted in the coal industry. “Wilkes-Barre the New York City of our area back in the day,” DeRosa says. “Because of that, we have a lot of really cool, old historic buildings. North Main Street has really elaborate old mansions and a lot of cool, old architecture.” Some of the historic buildings are now part of the Wilkes University or King’s College campuses.
Get your degree at Wilkes University in Georgetown, PA.
Have a picnic overlooking the Susquehanna River and Market Street Bridge in Wilkes-Barre.
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Older homes on walkable streets
A large number of homes in Wilkes-Barre date to the first quarter of the 20th century, and some have traditional or Dutch Colonial designs along the walkable streets. “It’s architecture that you really can’t see today with tons of details, stonework and really elaborate finishings,” DeRosa says. “There are people that seek out the historic homes, and every now and then one of those will go for $500,000 or $600,000. They still sell, because you really can’t buy that type of architecture and structure anymore.” The median sale price of Wilkes-Barre properties is about $176,500, and investors have also become a part of the housing landscape in the city as well. Single-family homes typically range between $100,000 and $200,000, while multi-family homes often cost around $250,000.
Colonial style homes are one of the abundant homes types in Wilkes-Barre.
Wilkes-Barre is home to beautiful historical homes of the mid 19th century, including the Second Empire style.
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Local restaurants on Main Street
Locals also have a varied mix of restaurants and outlets to choose from, representing a wide array of cultures. “It has a strong ethnic background, which you can see in the different restaurants,” DeRosa says. “It’s a great place to go and experience different cuisines, lifestyles and stuff like that. It’s a plethora of different options, restaurants, shops and stuff like that. It’s almost like a melting pot for the area.”
Restaurants are scattered throughout the city, with a number of establishments on or near Main Street in the southern part of Wilkes-Barre. “Main Street is where all the privately-owned restaurants are,” DeRosa says. “You get some diversity in the types of food in that area. There’s a Mediterranean restaurant, a Thai restaurant, a hibachi place and all different options.” Main Street feeds into Public Square, which is surrounded by more restaurants. Over 2 miles east, residents can find major chains stores and restaurants, including Walmart and Wegmans, at Wilkes-Barre Township Commons.
Istanbul Grill welcomes customers to dine outside along South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre.
Wegmans is a premium grocery option for delicious organic meals in Wilkes-Barre.
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Recreation on dry land along the Susquehanna
Coal Street Park is the largest recreational space within the city, which has nearly two dozen parks overall. Coal Street Park features baseball fields and a playground alongside the Toyota SportsPlex. The SportsPlex houses an ice rink that accommodates skating, hockey and curling. Golfers can take swings at Hollenback Golf Club. Across the river, Kirby Park is lined with trails that encircle a pond. Several state game lands and conservation areas sit south of Wilkes-Barre, including State Game Lands 119, which spans nearly 8,000 acres.
Wilkes-Barre River Commons lies along the Susquehanna and has an amphitheater that hosts plays, music and more. “There was a revitalization project along the river in the downtown Wilkes-Barre area,” DeRosa says. “There’s a really beautiful river walk area where people can ride their bikes, walk along the river or just sit and eat lunch.” River Commons’ amenities include paved pathways, fishing piers and access to the river.
River Common Park features an amphitheater called the Millennium Circle in Wilkes-Barre.
Hikers and hunters wear orange for safety at State Game Lands 207.
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Recreational skating, minor-league sports and more
During colder months, Public Square houses an ice-skating rink. Visitors can rent pairs of skates for free or bring their own skating blades. “The square has a really great Christmas parade right around Thanksgiving that ends there in a tree lighting,” DeRosa says. Public Square also hosts a weekly farmer’s market every Thursday from June to November. Other annual traditions include the Fine Arts Fiesta and Dragonboat Race Weekend.
“They have Rockin’ the River during the summer with live music,” DeRosa says. “It’s totally free. That’s by that river walk area that was just redone a couple of years ago. Really, all summer long, there’s different things.” Sports fans can head to Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza to see the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ AHL affiliate, play hockey. The area is also the home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, which serve as the Triple-A affiliate of MLB’s New York Yankees.
Wilkes University Athletics features an elite Ice Hockey team in the city.
You can watch a hockey game at Mohegan Sun Arena just ten minutes away from Mountain Top in nearby Wilkes Barre.
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Access to Interstate 81 close by
From central Wilkes-Barre, locals are often 5 miles or less from jumping on Interstate 81. “Getting around is really easy,” DeRosa says. “We’re really lucky here to be close to connections to 80, 81 and 476. All these road systems are just 5 to 10 minutes away.” Its counterpart city, Scranton, is about 20 miles northeast. “You can hop on 81 and it’s right there,” DeRosa says. “It’s really convenient as far as getting around.” Martz buses fulfill public transportation needs in Wilkes-Barre, while air travelers can head to Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport about 11 miles north. Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital sits on the north side of the city, while Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre Urgent Care is located less than 3 miles south.
A new high school for city students
The Wilkes-Barre Area School District serves the city, scoring a C with Niche. It consists of six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Wilkes-Barre Area High School also incorporates a STEM Academy into its curriculum. “Wilkes-Barre just built an extremely high-tech, new high school, so that was really exciting for them,” DeRosa says. “They consolidated two other old buildings into that one.” Wilkes-Barre Academy is a private school within the city; it does not yet have a grade from Niche, but spans kindergarten through eighth grade. Wilkes University and King’s College are both in the area, each serving several thousand students and operating as private universities.
Georgetown, PA is home of King's College.
Wilkes-Barre Academy is a private PreK-8th grade education center in Wilkes-Barre.
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Crime rates above the statewide mark in Wilkes-Barre
In 2023, the FBI crime database reports that the Wilkes-Barre Police Department recorded an average of 98.3 violent crimes per month. The mean was an increase from the previous year’s mark of 78 per month. For property crimes, the city recorded an average of 56.8 per month in 2023, down from 60.6 the year prior. Wilkes-Barre’s violent crime rates are above the state of Pennsylvania’s.
Written By
Adam Cheek
Photography Contributed By
Alec Oswald
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jennifer McMonigle-Jakubczyk,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wilkes-Barre, PA sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Wilkes-Barre, PA over the last 12 months is $175,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Housing Trends
Median List Price
$195,000
Median Sale Price
$175,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$187,450
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$11,400
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Last 12 months Home Sales
94
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
15%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$121
Area Facts
Number of Homes
5,905
Number of Homes for Sale
83
Median Year Built
1985
Months of Supply
10.60
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,931
On par with the national average
1,930
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,730
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,375
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,339
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
11,761
Homes for Sale
$179,000
6 Beds
2 Baths
2,424 Sq Ft
Do not miss this side by side duplex opportunity offered under $180k in Wilkes Barre, ideal for investors or owner occupants looking to build equity and cash flow. This property features two spacious units, each offering a large living room, dedicated dining area, full kitchen, three bedrooms, and one full bathroom. Separate entrances provide privacy for tenants, while covered front porches and
Former Rite Aid - Prime Corner Commercial Building offering approximately 9,000 square feet of open and flexible space.This property features existing refrigerators, shelving, unloading area, and a drive-thru teller station, providing endless possibilities for retail, medical, grocery, or service use. Situated on a high-traffic corner on a main crossing, this location offers excellent visibility
Solid 2 unit, separate utilities. Refurbished a few years ago with new hardwood floors, tile in kitchen and baths, plumbing and electric. The 87 side is recently vacant and is being painted currently. Will need notice to show other side if interested of at least 24-48 hours.
2-bedroom, 1-bath house with newer floors on the first level and updated appliances. Great starter home with a spacious yard, perfect for pets, gardening, or outdoor entertaining. Newer Roof. Conveniently located near schools, shopping, and major roadways.
Welcome to this renovated 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath home in Wilkes-Barre. Features updated finishes throughout, bright living areas, and a finished attic perfect for a bonus room or office. Move-in ready and conveniently located near schools, shopping, and major routes. Schedule your showing today!
George PlacencioKeller Williams Real Estate, Kingston
Cute Ranch home located on tree lined street. Bidding begins 11/3 This property is now active in an online auction. All offers must be submitted through the property's listing page on www.auction.com. The sale will be subject to a 5% buyer's premium pursuant to the Auction Terms and Conditions (minimums may apply). All auction bids will be processed subject to seller approval.
Stacey LauerRealty World Rubbico Real Estate, Inc.
Well-maintained home featuring 3 generously sized bedrooms with spacious closets and 1 full bathroom. This property offers efficient gas heating with a brand new boiler and water heater, providing comfort and energy efficiency. Functional layout with great potential, conveniently located near local amenities, schools, and transportation.
Yanilenny Monegro De HildagoLewith & Freeman, Kingston
Newly updated 2-bedroom home in Plains Township near the Cross Valley and new Wilkes-Barre High School. Features include new flooring, an updated bathroom, and spacious bedrooms. The lower level was previously an apartment and could be converted back easily. Enjoy a fenced-in backyard and low taxes--great location and potential!
David RubbicoRealty World Rubbico Real Estate, Inc.
Nicely remodeled 3BR traditional with open layout and many generous room sizes. New kitchen cabinets w/ granite counters & luxury vinyl floors, new baths & 3-yr roof.2 stairways, large walk-out basement can be easily completed to bonus rec room, detached 1-car garage, out of flood zone. Easy access to major highways & commercial strips.
Spacious, bright, and perfectly situated, this impressive 1,950 sq. ft. apartment offers three full floors of versatile living space. Designed for those who value room to breathe, this home features:*Four Oversized Bedrooms: Ample closet space and natural light throughout.*Two Full Bathrooms: Conveniently located to serve all three levels.*Modern Kitchen: Fully equipped with all essential
$500 Move-In Fee and First Month’s Rent Gets You Into Your Future Home! Nestled in the quiet countryside of Wilkes-Barre Township, just minutes from Wilkes-Barre Center Square, lies the residential community of Cedar Village Apartments and Townhomes. Surrounded by rolling hills, Cedar Village Apartments invites residents to explore its manicured grounds and picturesque views. Offering spacious
Discover comfortable living in this bright and inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom second-floor apartment, perfectly situated in a desirable Wilkes-Barre location. Enjoy the elevated privacy and security that comes with a second-floor unit. The residence features a spacious layout, offering a comfortable living room and two well-sized bedrooms, ideal for a small family, roommates, or a home office
East Mountain Apartments offers updated 1 and 2-bedroom apartment living with a spectacular view of the Wyoming Valley below. We’re located a few minutes from downtown Wilkes-Barre. The community is convenient to I-81 and the area’s major employers, colleges, and attractions including Geisinger Medical Center, Wilkes University, and the Mohegan Sun Arena. Make East Mountain Apartments your new
2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers comfortable living with attic storage included. The unit allows one pet of any size and comes with one dedicated parking space. Conveniently located in Wilkes-Barre, this rental is ideal for tenants seeking a functional layout with added storage. First & Security deposit; Credit/Background check required.
This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment offers comfortable and convenient living in a prime Wilkes-Barre location. The unit includes access to the basement for additional storage and comes with two dedicated parking spaces. The landlord covers water and gas utilities. First & Security deposit; Credit/Background check required.
Wilkeswood is a community offering a great residential environment, upscale amenities and excellent service for our residents. We offer two and three bedroom townhomes that are sure to please even those with the most discriminating tastes. Whether you want to relax by our resort-style pool, walk your furry friend on our beautifully landscaped grounds, or simply enjoy easy living in your new
Cozy and charming two-bedroom, one-bath home featuring a functional layout and a comfortable living space. Perfect for first-time buyers or those looking for a manageable, well-kept home.$50 water, sewer, gas fee
Welcome home to these beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartments! Newly Renovated: 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath: A spacious layout designed for your utmost comfort and convenience.Inclusive Utilities: Say goodbye to the hassle of separate bills. Rent covers heat, air conditioning, electric, water, sewer, and trash removal. Great Location: Conveniently situated in a prime location, providing
Beautiful historical building that has been freshly renovated with modern touches. ''The Diamond'', formerly known as The Sterling Annex, has all the original character balanced with stunning finished and efficient layouts. Incredible water views, amazing location and amenities give a luxury feel to this downtown gem. Will consider pets.
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
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