City Profile
Hazleton, Pennsylvania
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
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.
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.
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Expenses
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.
Income
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.
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Climate
Mobility
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.
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