Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Wilkes Barre

Affordability

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median gross rent in Wilkes-Barre is $946 per month and the median household income is $48,515 per year, giving renters helpful context when comparing assisted housing options in the area. About 49% of households in the city rent their homes, reflecting a strong renter presence and meaningful demand for income-based housing.

Safety

According to the Wilkes-Barre Police Department's data reported to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Wilkes-Barre had a violent crime rate of 432 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Keep in mind that crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and definitions.

Of the 7 HUD-assisted properties in Wilkes-Barre tracked by Lease Lantern, none are located in a high flood-risk zone based on available flood map data.

Getting Around Wilkes-Barre

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Wilkes-Barre earns a Walk Score of 78 (Very Walkable) and a Bike Score of 39, meaning most errands can be handled on foot though biking infrastructure is more limited. No Transit Score is available for this area.

Schools

According to NCES Common Core of Data, 7 public schools across 2 districts serve Wilkes-Barre, including 4 elementary, 1 middle, 1 high school, and 1 other. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address.

Cost of Renting in Wilkes Barre, PA

The median household income in Wilkes Barre is $48,515 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. The citywide median rent is $946 per month, per the same source.

Affordable and income-based housing can help renters whose costs would otherwise strain that income. Wilkes Barre has 7 HUD-assisted or income-restricted properties covering 1,169 units, with rents set based on income limits rather than market rates.

• Median household income: $48,515/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $946/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 49% of occupied housing units (Census ACS 5-Year)

Environment & Flood Risk

All 7 HUD-assisted properties in Wilkes-Barre have been mapped for flood zone exposure. None of them fall within a high-risk flood zone, which is a reassuring finding for renters concerned about flood exposure.