Cost of living in Scranton
Scranton, located in Pennsylvania, is a city known for its rich history and vibrant community. Understanding the cost of living in Scranton is crucial for anyone considering moving to or currently residing in the area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $12 on average, with a range between $12 and $55.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $125, with prices ranging from $80 to $250.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6, with a range between $6 and $15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $6 to $11, imported beer $8 to $14, cappuccino $4.5 to $8, and Coke/Pepsi $1.5 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.76 and $2.11 per liter, averaging $0.76.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.42 and $11.02, with an average price of $1.42.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.79 to $9, averaging $1.79.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $11.02 per kg, while oranges range from $2 to $11 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.1 and $6.61 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.09 to $5.3 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $1.75.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.86 and $1.29 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3.25, with a cost of $1.55 to $3.26 per km and $25 to $45 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1200 to $1275, averaging $1237.5.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $1100.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1620 to $2500, averaging $2060.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent is fixed at $1500.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $1464 to $1722.23, averaging $1593.11.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $1399.31 to $1464, averaging $1431.65.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $100 and $300, averaging $178.19.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $90, with an average cost of $50.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Scranton offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. Dining out can be economical, especially at casual restaurants.
Housing costs are moderate, with a variety of options available both in the city centre and outside. Public transportation is cost-effective, and utilities are reasonably priced.
For those looking to save, consider exploring housing options outside the city centre and utilizing public transport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scranton, PA, presents a balanced cost of living with affordable dining and housing options. The city provides a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses found in larger cities.
Potential residents will find that Scranton offers a good quality of life with reasonable costs across various categories, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike.