Lackawanna County, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
216,146
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,223/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
100,177
0.2% year-over-year change

Lackawanna County population

How many people live in Lackawanna County

Lackawanna County is home to 216,146 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Lackawanna County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
216,146
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
106,261
Female
50.8%
109,885
Value Percent YoY change
Male 106,261 49.2% 0.2%
Female 109,885 50.8% 0.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Lackawanna County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 36,035 16.7% -0.6%
15 to 24 27,515 12.7% 1.1%
25 to 44 52,513 24.3% 0.7%
45 to 64 55,673 25.8% -1.4%
Over 65 44,410 20.6% 1.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Lackawanna County, 91.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.3% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 198,576 91.9% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 10,044 4.6% -0.8%
Non-citizens 7,526 3.5% 24.6%
Racial breakdown
White
81.3%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.4%
Other
4.1%
Value Percent
White 175,665 81.3%
Black or African American 6,807 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 180 0.1%
Asian 6,465 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 60 0%
Two or more races 18,185 8.4%
Other 8,784 4.1%

Households in Lackawanna County

A peek inside Lackawanna County households

Lackawanna County has 88,263 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60% are families, while the remaining 40% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
88,263
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
35,320
Family households
52,943
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,320 40% 2.4%
Family households 52,943 60% -1.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Lackawanna County

The housing landscape of Lackawanna County

Lackawanna County's housing consists of 100,177 units, with 64.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
100,177
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 64,480 64.4%
1 unit, attached 6,969 7%
2 units 10,458 10.4%
3 or 4 units 7,182 7.2%
5 to 9 units 3,258 3.2%
10 to 19 units 1,415 1.4%
20 to 49 units 1,078 1.1%
50 or more units 3,235 3.2%
Mobile home 2,082 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0%
Homes built since 2020
574
67.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lackawanna County

In Lackawanna County, the median construction year is 1955. About 36.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 36,162 36.1% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9,431 9.4% 5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,222 9.2% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,857 8.8% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,938 11.9% -0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,754 7.7% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,710 6.7% -5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,743 5.7% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,786 3.8% 4.2%
Built in 2020 or later 574 0.6% 67.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Lackawanna County occupancy rates

Out of the 88,263 occupied housing units in Lackawanna County, 65.4% are owner-occupied, while 34.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
88,263
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30,519
Owner occupied
57,744
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30,519 34.6% -0.2%
Owner occupied 57,744 65.4% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
11.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Lackawanna County housing costs

Housing costs in Lackawanna County come to a median of $1,047 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,007.

Median housing costs per month
$1,047/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Lackawanna County
$1,007/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Lackawanna County

Lackawanna County education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Lackawanna County went to high school, while 19.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,602 2.7% 5.5%
High school diploma 69,044 40.2% -1.7%
College diploma 33,318 19.4% 0.8%
Associate degree 16,072 9.4% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 29,788 17.3% -0.2%
Graduate degree 19,109 11.1% 5.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Lackawanna County

How much people earn in Lackawanna County

The average annual household income in Lackawanna County was $89,204 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,223, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lackawanna County
$89,204/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lackawanna County
$66,223/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Lackawanna County income by age

In Lackawanna County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,735. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,539 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,652, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,340 in earnings. Overall, 85.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,652 13.7%
25 - 44 $74,735 0.9%
45 - 64 $82,539 4.2%
Over 65 $47,340 1.4%
Above poverty level
176,955
Below poverty level
29,279
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 176,955 85.8% -0.3%
Below poverty level 29,279 14.2% 2.0%

Employment in Lackawanna County

Workforce and job types in Lackawanna County

The job market in Lackawanna County is powered by 100,442 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
100,442
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
76,765
Blue collar
23,677
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 76,765 76.4% -0.9%
Blue collar 23,677 23.6% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,298 7.3% -3.5%
Private companies 68,029 67.7% -0.6%
Governmental workers 12,476 12.4% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 12,639 12.6% -3.0%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
3.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lackawanna County stands at 4.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Lackawanna County

How people get around in Lackawanna County

Commuting methods vary: 85.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 84,285 85.2% -1.0%
Taxicab 310 0.3% 37.8%
Bus or trolleybus 532 0.5% -30.2%
Subway or elevated 21 0% N/A
Railroad 25 0% 108.3%
Motorcycle 44 0% 193.3%
Bicycle 95 0.1% 25.0%
Walk 2,984 3% -2.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Lackawanna County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
18403 6,851 3,051 $77,521 $95,527
18407 14,445 5,952 $59,652 $81,990
18411 22,820 8,872 $98,824 $132,647
18414 5,444 2,172 $93,065 $118,448
18419 4,734 1,856 $61,402 $83,967
18420 69 30 $73,333 $74,180
18424 5,213 2,127 $61,315 $87,108
18433 7,564 3,074 $75,000 $99,326
18434 4,031 1,757 $62,922 $74,956
18436 13,569 5,391 $69,498 $89,774

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FAQs about Lackawanna County demographics 

What is the total population of Lackawanna County?

Lackawanna County has a total population of 216,146 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lackawanna County?

The gender ratio in Lackawanna County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (106,261 residents)
  • 50.8% females (109,885 residents)

What is the median age in Lackawanna County?

The median age in Lackawanna County is 41.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lackawanna County?

The age distribution in Lackawanna County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (36,035 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (27,515 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (52,513 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (55,673 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (44,410 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lackawanna County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lackawanna County is as follows:
  • White: 81.3% (175,665 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (6,807 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (180 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (6,465 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (60 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.4% (18,185 residents)
  • Other: 4.1% (8,784 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lackawanna County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.9% of the population in Lackawanna County.

How many housing units are there in Lackawanna County?

There are 100,177 housing units in Lackawanna County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lackawanna County and what is the average household size?

Lackawanna County has a total of 88,263 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lackawanna County?

Lackawanna County has a median household income of $66,223, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Lackawanna County?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Lackawanna County, with a workforce of 100,442 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (76,765 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (23,677 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (7,298 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (68,029 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (12,476 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.6% (12,639 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025