Scranton, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
76,033
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,739/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
35,512
-0.3% year-over-year change

Scranton population

How many people live in Scranton

Scranton is home to 76,033 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Scranton locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
76,033
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
37,382
Female
50.8%
38,651
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,382 49.2% -0.8%
Female 38,651 50.8% 0.7%
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 Scranton is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 16.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 22.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
16.8%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
22.6%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,876 16.9% 2.6%
15 to 24 12,769 16.8% -3.7%
25 to 44 18,715 24.6% 1.6%
45 to 64 17,221 22.6% -4.0%
Over 65 14,452 19% 3.9%
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 Scranton, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.9% are African American and 5.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.1%
Non-citizens
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 64,413 84.7% -2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,186 8.1% 0.7%
Non-citizens 5,434 7.2% 30.9%
Racial breakdown
White
67.4%
Black or African American
6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
5.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
12.2%
Other
8.1%
Value Percent
White 51,272 67.4%
Black or African American 5,254 6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52 0.1%
Asian 4,011 5.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 51 0.1%
Two or more races 9,237 12.2%
Other 6,156 8.1%

Households in Scranton

A peek inside Scranton households

Scranton has 30,247 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.3% are families, while the remaining 44.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,247
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
13,526
Family households
16,721
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,526 44.7% 1.6%
Family households 16,721 55.3% -1.8%
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 Scranton

The housing landscape of Scranton

Scranton's housing consists of 35,512 units, with 48.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.6% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
35,512
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,292 48.7%
1 unit, attached 3,753 10.6%
2 units 5,450 15.4%
3 or 4 units 3,483 9.8%
5 to 9 units 1,551 4.4%
10 to 19 units 952 2.7%
20 to 49 units 710 2%
50 or more units 2,213 6.2%
Mobile home 108 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
57
147.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Scranton

In Scranton, the median construction year is 1938. About 51.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 18,402 51.8% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,727 10.5% 14.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,591 10.1% -5.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,660 7.5% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,700 7.6% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,522 4.3% -9.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,142 3.2% -10.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 881 2.5% 4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 830 2.3% -9.5%
Built in 2020 or later 57 0.2% 147.8%
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.

Scranton occupancy rates

Out of the 30,247 occupied housing units in Scranton, 49.9% are owner-occupied, while 50.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,247
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,164
Owner occupied
15,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,164 50.1% 1.3%
Owner occupied 15,083 49.9% -1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
14.8%
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.

Scranton housing costs

Housing costs in Scranton come to a median of $1,033 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,048.

Median housing costs per month
$1,033/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 Scranton
$1,048/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 Scranton

Scranton education at a glance

About 45.8% of the population in Scranton went to high school, while 21.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,484 4.1% 3.5%
High school diploma 27,418 45.8% -0.2%
College diploma 12,905 21.5% -3.3%
Associate degree 4,596 7.7% -4.8%
Bachelor's degree 7,739 12.9% -1.0%
Graduate degree 4,793 8% 5.6%
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 Scranton

How much people earn in Scranton

The average annual household income in Scranton was $69,141 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,739, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Scranton
$69,141/year
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Scranton
$50,739/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Scranton income by age

In Scranton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,698. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,580 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,770, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,922 in earnings. Overall, 77.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,770 -18.9%
25 - 44 $54,698 3.1%
45 - 64 $64,580 0.5%
Over 65 $39,922 -2.5%
Above poverty level
53,885
Below poverty level
15,764
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 53,885 77.4% -1.4%
Below poverty level 15,764 22.6% 3.9%

Average renter income in Scranton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Scranton, their median household income was $33,377 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,377
Rent-to-income ratio
37.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Scranton

Workforce and job types in Scranton

The job market in Scranton is powered by 32,628 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
32,628
-3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
24,156
Blue collar
8,472
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 24,156 74% -2.7%
Blue collar 8,472 26% -4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,963 6% -11.3%
Private companies 23,238 71.2% -1.8%
Governmental workers 3,262 10% -3.4%
Not for profit companies 4,165 12.8% -5.9%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-4.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Scranton stands at 5.4%, 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 Scranton

How people get around in Scranton

Commuting methods vary: 83.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% 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 26,640 83.3% -3.0%
Taxicab 194 0.6% 83.0%
Bus or trolleybus 345 1.1% -35.6%
Railroad 25 0.1% 108.3%
Motorcycle 28 0.1% 366.7%
Bicycle 46 0.1% 76.9%
Walk 1,549 4.8% -7.1%
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 Scranton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
18503 1,629 861 $36,107 $49,946
18504 21,069 8,587 $55,036 $70,477
18505 20,797 8,441 $52,398 $74,986
18508 11,565 4,683 $49,895 $63,243
18509 13,055 5,018 $51,062 $77,031
18510 14,332 5,185 $53,235 $68,777
18512 12,986 5,897 $64,708 $79,776
18519 5,266 2,396 $58,500 $72,880

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Scranton demographics 

What is the total population of Scranton?

Scranton has a total population of 76,033 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 Scranton?

The gender ratio in Scranton is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (37,382 residents)
  • 50.8% females (38,651 residents)

What is the median age in Scranton?

The median age in Scranton is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Scranton?

The age distribution in Scranton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (12,876 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.8% (12,769 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (18,715 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.6% (17,221 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (14,452 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Scranton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Scranton is as follows:
  • White: 67.4% (51,272 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.9% (5,254 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (52 residents)
  • Asian: 5.3% (4,011 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (51 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.2% (9,237 residents)
  • Other: 8.1% (6,156 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Scranton.

How many housing units are there in Scranton?

There are 35,512 housing units in Scranton, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Scranton has a total of 30,247 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Scranton?

Scranton has a median household income of $50,739, 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 Scranton?

The employment rate is 94.6% in Scranton, with a workforce of 32,628 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74% (24,156 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26% (8,472 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (1,963 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (23,238 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (3,262 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (4,165 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