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Hazleton, Pennsylvania

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

51
Overall Score

Hazleton, Pennsylvania, is a city nestled in Luzerne County, offering a blend of historical charm and modern revitalization. Historically, Hazleton played a significant role in the coal and silk industries, which shaped its early development and attracted diverse populations. Today, the city is known for its growing Hispanic community, which has contributed to a vibrant cultural landscape and economic dynamism. People are drawn to Hazleton for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas, its access to natural amenities in the Pocono Mountains, and ongoing efforts to foster economic development and community improvement. The city serves as a regional hub, providing essential services and employment opportunities to its residents and those in surrounding areas.

About Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a diverse character, blending vibrant urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with picturesque rural landscapes and historical charm. The state boasts a robust and varied economy, with major industries including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, real estate, financial services, and tourism, alongside significant contributions from agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and energy production. Living in Pennsylvania generally provides a high quality of life with a cost of living that is slightly below the national average, though expenses can vary significantly between urban and rural areas. The climate is primarily humid continental, featuring four distinct seasons with warm, often humid summers and cold, snowy winters, while the southeastern region experiences a slightly warmer, humid subtropical climate.

32,657
Population
$50K
Avg Salary
101
Cost Index
51.4
Quality Score
How this 51/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 68 / 100 68.0 30% 20.4
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 101.0 42.5 25% 10.6
Economy & jobs Median household income: $46,177 Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 7.4% 30.4 20% 6.1
Growth Population growth rate: 0.31% Job growth rate: 2.56% 52.0 15% 7.8
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 65.0 10% 6.5
Overall score 51.4

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=97 ✓ perfect), last refreshed 20 August 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Hazleton

Featured local businesses in Hazleton.

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Quality Scores

Business
65
Livability
72
Affordability
100
Growth
70

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Hazleton is generally considered to be slightly higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 101, indicating it is 1% more expensive than the U.S. average. However, there are conflicting reports, with some sources suggesting it is less expensive. Housing costs in Hazleton are notably lower than the national average, which is a significant factor in its overall affordability. For instance, housing expenses are reported to be 44% lower than the national average for a single person. Conversely, utility prices are estimated to be 15% higher than the national average, while transportation expenses, including gas prices and bus fares, are about 13% higher. Food costs also vary, with some data indicating they are slightly above the national average, while other reports suggest they are below. These variations mean that while housing offers considerable savings, other categories like utilities and transportation can offset some of those benefits, requiring residents to budget carefully.

Average Rent
$1,350/mo
Groceries
$400/mo
Transport
$360/mo
Utilities
$349/mo
Healthcare
$293/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$40.00
Cinema ticket
$12.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$25.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Hazleton's economy is driven by key industries such as Transportation & Warehousing, Manufacturing, and Health Care & Social Assistance. These sectors are major employers in the city, with Manufacturing, Transportation & Warehousing, and Retail Trade identified as the largest industries by employment in 2024. The city has seen positive job growth, with employment increasing by 2.56% from June 2025 to June 2026. Pennsylvania as a whole has demonstrated strong economic performance, ranking among the top states for job growth in 2025 and for new business survival, suggesting a supportive environment for businesses in Hazleton. Efforts by organizations like CAN DO and CAN BE aim to foster entrepreneurship and attract new businesses, contributing to the city's economic resilience. The average annual salary in Hazleton was approximately $49,688 as of August 2026, with the median household income reported at $46,177 in 2024.

The average salary in Hazleton is $49,688 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Food Manufacturing +2.20% Retail Trade +1.50% Manufacturing +2.00% Transportation & Warehousing +2.50% Health Care & Social Assistance +3.00%

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
69.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Hazleton primarily relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by a high car dependency. The average commute time for residents is approximately 21.3 minutes, which is shorter than the national average. A significant majority of commuters, about 74%, drive alone to work, and the average household owns two cars. Public transit usage is low, with only about 1% of the population using it, and walkability is also limited, with only 3% walking to work. While Hazleton is conveniently located near Interstates 80 and 81, making regional travel straightforward, the city itself has a low transit score and walkability score, suggesting that public transportation options within the city are not extensive.

21 min
Avg Commute
25.00/10
Transit Score
30.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Median home sale price increased by 13.3% year-over-year as of June 2026, indicating a growing housing market.
Housing costs are significantly lower than the national average, making it more affordable to live.
Violent crime rates are below the U.S. average, contributing to a safer community environment.
The city has a positive job growth rate of 2.56% from June 2025 to June 2026.
Pennsylvania ranks among the top states for new business survival, suggesting a supportive entrepreneurial climate.
Drawbacks
Unemployment rate in Hazleton was 7.40% in June 2026, higher than the national average.
Utility prices are estimated to be 15% higher than the national average.
Transportation expenses are 13% higher than the national average, and car dependency is high.
A significant portion of Hazleton families (25.0%) live in poverty.
Conflicting data on cost of living index makes overall affordability assessment challenging.

Questions about Hazleton

What people ask about living in and moving to Hazleton, Pennsylvania.

Are the public schools in Hazleton considered good? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Hazleton offer a range of programs and extracurricular activities. While overall performance varies by district, many schools focus on core academics and community engagement. Parents can review state assessment data, school ratings, and visit schools personally to gauge fit. Local education authorities publish performance reports that can help you compare schools within the region.

How safe is Hazleton compared to other cities? Safety 1 answer

Hazleton has a safety score of 68 out of 100, which is moderate. This score reflects local crime statistics and community safety initiatives. While it is lower than some larger cities, it is comparable to many small to mid‑size towns. For detailed crime data, consult local police reports or community safety dashboards available through municipal resources.

Is public transportation reliable in Hazleton? Getting Around 1 answer

Hazleton offers a local transit system that provides bus routes connecting residential areas with commercial and industrial zones. Service frequency varies by route, and schedules can be found on the city’s transportation website. For commuters, it’s useful to check peak hours and route maps to plan reliable travel times.

What is the overall vibe of Hazleton for new residents? General 1 answer

Hazleton presents a blend of small‑town charm and accessible amenities. Residents often describe the community as welcoming, with a strong sense of local identity. The city balances residential neighborhoods with commercial districts, offering a mix of quiet living and convenient shopping or dining options. Visiting the area, attending local events, and speaking with neighbors can give you a clear sense of the everyd...

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hazleton? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hazleton is about $1,350 per month. Prices can vary by location and building amenities, so it’s wise to compare listings on local real‑estate sites or contact real‑estate agents familiar with the area to find the best fit for your budget.

What should I know about moving into Hazleton? Moving Here 1 answer

When moving to Hazleton, consider the local utility setup, including water, electric, and internet providers. It’s helpful to arrange services ahead of time and confirm the availability of your preferred providers. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local ordinances, such as parking regulations and waste collection schedules, which can be found on the city’s official website.

How does Hazleton's cost of living compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Hazleton’s cost of living index is 101, just slightly above the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are marginally higher than the U.S. average, but not by a large margin. Your average salary of $49,688 per year should cover typical living costs, especially if you budget carefully for housing and utilities.

What healthcare options are available in Hazleton? Healthcare 1 answer

Hazleton hosts several healthcare facilities that provide primary care, specialty services, and emergency care. These include clinics, hospitals, and outpatient centers that cater to a wide range of medical needs. Patients can review service offerings, provider lists, and insurance compatibility through the city’s health department portal.

What recreational activities can I do in Hazleton? Things to Do 1 answer

Hazleton offers a variety of recreational options, from parks and nature trails to local museums and community festivals. The city’s parks department manages several green spaces suitable for hiking, biking, and family outings. Cultural events, such as art shows and music performances, are regularly scheduled at community centers and venues throughout the year.

What kinds of jobs are most common in Hazleton? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Hazleton’s economy historically centers around manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Many employers in the region offer positions in production, maintenance, and logistics. Additionally, the area has a growing service sector with roles in customer support, education, and local government. Checking local job boards and the city’s economic development portal can provide current openings that match your skill set.

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Hazleton? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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