Reading vs Wilkes-Barre
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
Wilkes-Barre has an edge
Wilkes-Barre currently favors renting, with better rent-to-price dynamics.
Median Home Price
$299,902.37
Median Rent
$1,495.72/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
16.7
Property Tax RateTIE
1.54%
Price Change (1Y)
+3.5%
Price Change (5Y)
+17.4%
Break-Even YearsTIE
N/A
10-Year Wealth Difference
$132,072
Median Home PriceBETTER
$213,661.16
Median RentBETTER
$1,290.56/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
13.8
Property Tax RateTIE
1.54%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+4.1%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+20.4%
Break-Even YearsTIE
N/A
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
$47,597
Key Differences
Home Prices
Reading's median home price of $299,902.37 is higher than Wilkes-Barre's $213,661.16 by 40%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Reading costs $1,495.72/mo compared to $1,290.56/mo in Wilkes-Barre—a difference of $205.16/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Both cities currently favor renting.
Break-Even Timeline
Break-even analysis varies based on market conditions in each city.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.