Northeast Pennsylvania Shows Below-Average Cost of Living in Q1 2026 Data
New cost of living data for the first quarter of 2026 reveals that the Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) region, specifically Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne counties, has a cost of living index well below the national average. The data, collected by the…
Wilkes Barre Scranton Hazleton, PA, September 19, 2026 — The Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) region, encompassing Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne counties, continues to demonstrate a cost of living index significantly below the national average, according to newly released data for the first quarter of 2026. The findings, compiled by the Council for Community and Economic Research, underscore the area’s general affordability for residents.
Among the three counties surveyed, Luzerne County registered the lowest cost of living index. While specific numerical indices for each county were not provided in the summary, the overall trend indicates a notable affordability advantage compared to broader national benchmarks.
Analysis of the data reveals a mixed picture regarding specific cost categories. Although housing costs in the NEPA region are experiencing an upward trend, they reportedly remain more economical when contrasted with many other regions across the United States and even with metropolitan areas within Pennsylvania. This suggests that housing represents a relatively lower expense for residents in these NEPA counties compared to other locations.
Conversely, the data indicates that the costs associated with utilities and transportation in NEPA are higher than the national average. These categories represent areas where residents may face expenses exceeding what is typical nationwide. The summary did not provide specific figures or percentages for these increased costs, nor did it detail the reasons behind the higher utility and transportation expenses.
The Council for Community and Economic Research’s data collection provides insights into the economic landscape of various U.S. regions. The information pertaining to NEPA’s cost of living in early 2026 highlights key economic factors impacting residents and provides a benchmark for regional affordability. Further details regarding the exact index values for each county and specific breakdowns of cost components were not included in the provided summary.
Story summarized from the original created by Bill O’Boyle on www.timesleader.com, see more information here.
