Scranton City, Scranton, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
66,405
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,730/yr
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
31,101
-0.0% year-over-year change

Scranton population

How many people live in Scranton

Scranton is home to 66,405 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Scranton locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
66,405
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
32,452
Female
51.1%
33,953
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,452 48.9% -0.9%
Female 33,953 51.1% 0.5%
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 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 16.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
16.3%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,381 17.1% 0.3%
15 to 24 10,801 16.3% -2.4%
25 to 44 16,381 24.7% 2.2%
45 to 64 15,117 22.8% -3.9%
Over 65 12,724 19.2% 3.0%
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, 85.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.9% of locals are Caucasian, 6.4% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.5%
Non-citizens
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 56,860 85.6% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,967 7.5% -0.4%
Non-citizens 4,578 6.9% 28.2%
Racial breakdown
White
68.9%
Black or African American
6.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.7%
Other
7.9%
Value Percent
White 45,745 68.9%
Black or African American 4,276 6.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 0.1%
Asian 3,304 5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 41 0.1%
Two or more races 7,768 11.7%
Other 5,227 7.9%

Households in Scranton

A peek inside Scranton households

Scranton has 26,553 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
26,553
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,703
Family households
14,850
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,703 44.1% 1.6%
Family households 14,850 55.9% -1.5%
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 31,101 units, with 49.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.3% 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
31,101
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,503 49.8%
1 unit, attached 3,217 10.3%
2 units 4,713 15.2%
3 or 4 units 2,990 9.6%
5 to 9 units 1,421 4.6%
10 to 19 units 769 2.5%
20 to 49 units 635 2%
50 or more units 1,758 5.6%
Mobile home 96 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
77
305.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Scranton

In Scranton, the median construction year is 1938. About 51.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.2% 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 15,889 51.1% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,346 10.8% 14.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,116 10% -6.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,179 7% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,372 7.6% -0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,413 4.5% -4.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,113 3.6% -13.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 920 3% 4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 676 2.2% -10.7%
Built in 2020 or later 77 0.2% 305.3%
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.

Scranton occupancy rates

Out of the 26,553 occupied housing units in Scranton, 51.2% are owner-occupied, while 48.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
26,553
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,970
Owner occupied
13,583
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,970 48.8% 1.4%
Owner occupied 13,583 51.2% -1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
14.6%
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 $1,046 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,044.

Median housing costs per month
$1,046/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
$1,044/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 45.2% of the population in Scranton went to high school, while 21.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,105 4% 4.1%
High school diploma 23,605 45.2% -0.0%
College diploma 11,008 21.1% -1.9%
Associate degree 4,017 7.7% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 6,986 13.4% -1.7%
Graduate degree 4,517 8.6% 5.0%
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 $70,024 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,730, reflecting a -1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Scranton
$70,024/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Scranton
$51,730/year
-1.2% 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 $55,040. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,200 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,587, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,462 in earnings. Overall, 77.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,587 37.7%
25 - 44 $55,040 -6.5%
45 - 64 $65,200 6.5%
Over 65 $37,462 -3.5%
Above poverty level
47,611
Below poverty level
13,484
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,611 77.9% -1.8%
Below poverty level 13,484 22.1% 4.4%

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 37.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,377
Rent-to-income ratio
37.5%
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 28,535 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.1% run their own businesses, 70.9% are employed by private companies, and 10.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
28,535
-2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
21,174
Blue collar
7,361
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,174 74.2% -2.1%
Blue collar 7,361 25.8% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6.1%
Private companies
70.9%
Governmental workers
10.3%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,728 6.1% -10.9%
Private companies 20,233 70.9% -0.8%
Governmental workers 2,939 10.3% -2.4%
Not for profit companies 3,636 12.7% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
-2.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Scranton stands at 5.3%, 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

In Scranton, the average commute time is 60 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
60 min
-3.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,392 92.7% -2.2%
Taxicab 159 0.6% 69.2%
Bus or trolleybus 281 1.1% -35.7%
Railroad 17 0.1% 112.5%
Motorcycle 28 0.1% 600.0%
Bicycle 43 0.2% 115.0%
Walk 1,321 5.2% -0.8%
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.

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FAQs about Scranton demographics 

What is the total population of Scranton?

Scranton has a total population of 66,405 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Scranton?

The gender ratio in Scranton is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (32,452 residents)
  • 51.1% females (33,953 residents)

What is the median age in Scranton?

The median age in Scranton is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Scranton?

The age distribution in Scranton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (11,381 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.3% (10,801 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (16,381 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (15,117 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (12,724 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Scranton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Scranton is as follows:
  • White: 68.9% (45,745 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.4% (4,276 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (3,304 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (41 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.7% (7,768 residents)
  • Other: 7.9% (5,227 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.6% of the population in Scranton.

How many housing units are there in Scranton?

There are 31,101 housing units in Scranton, reflecting a -0.0% 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 26,553 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Scranton?

Scranton has a median household income of $51,730, representing a -1.2% 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 94.7% in Scranton, with a workforce of 28,535 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (21,174 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (7,361 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.1% (1,728 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.9% (20,233 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.3% (2,939 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (3,636 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