City Comparison
Scranton vs Erie
Cost of living, salaries, climate and quality of life compared side by side.
Pennsylvania, USA
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At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Scranton
Erie
Advantages
Erie offers a cost of living that is 13.7% lower than the national average, with housing costs being particularly affordable.
The average rent in Erie is approximately $1,050 per month, significantly below the national average.
The average commute time in Erie is 19.6 minutes, considerably shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes.
Erie provides access to extensive outdoor recreation opportunities due to its location on Lake Erie and proximity to Presque Isle State Park.
Healthcare costs in Erie are approximately 12% lower than the national average.
Drawbacks
Erie has a higher crime rate than the average U.S. city, with a 'C-' overall crime grade and 'D-' for violent crime.
The city's population has been in decline, with a projected annual rate of change of -0.7% for 2026.
While some areas are walkable, Erie is generally considered car-dependent for most errands.
Utility costs in Erie are about 7% higher than the national average.
The median year of construction for homes in Erie is 1961, indicating an older housing stock that may require updates.
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