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About Lackawanna County
Where History Drives Tomorrow
Lackawanna County anchors northeastern Pennsylvania, where the echoes of the anthracite coal era blend with the energy of modern commerce. Home to 215,000 residents and over 5,800 businesses, this is where Scranton's revitalized downtown meets the pristine beauty of the Pocono Mountains foothills - where the Electric City earned its nickname as the nation's first electrified city and continues illuminating paths forward.
A Legacy of Innovation
Scranton, our county seat and the sixth-largest city in Pennsylvania, exemplifies American resilience. Once the anthracite capital of the world, today's Scranton thrives with healthcare giants, educational institutions, and a growing tech sector occupying beautifully restored industrial buildings. The city's 3,200 businesses range from century-old family enterprises to cutting-edge medical research facilities and everything in between.
Beyond Scranton, communities like Dunmore, Clarks Summit, and Carbondale each contribute their unique character. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail connects these communities physically and economically, while the Route 6 corridor through Dickson City and the Viewmont Mall area offers regional shopping. Head into the Abingtons or toward Lake Wallenpaupack, and you'll find thriving small businesses serving both locals and tourists exploring the region's natural beauty.
Why Businesses Choose Lackawanna
The economics make sense: commercial space costs 40-60% less than Philadelphia or New York metros while providing direct access to both markets. Our workforce of 102,000 combines generations of manufacturing expertise with fresh talent from the University of Scranton, Marywood University, Johnson College, and Lackawanna College - all located right here in the county.
Opportunity abounds in unexpected places. Scranton's downtown renaissance has attracted restaurants, breweries, and tech startups. The healthcare sector employs over 20,000 workers and continues expanding. Distribution centers leverage our Interstate access. And the tourism industry capitalizes on our proximity to ski resorts, state parks, and historic attractions.
Life in the Electric City Region
This is authentic northeastern Pennsylvania - gritty, genuine, and surprisingly sophisticated. The Scranton Cultural Center hosts Broadway shows while neighborhood bars serve the city's signature Old Forge pizza. The Steamtown National Historic Site preserves our railroad heritage while Montage Mountain provides year-round recreation just minutes from downtown.
Families appreciate the affordable housing, with median home values at $189,900, quality school districts like Abington Heights and North Pocono, and the abundance of parks and recreational facilities. The county offers urban amenities without urban prices, small-town charm without isolation, and four distinct seasons that locals wouldn't trade for anything.
Strategic Northeast Location
Lackawanna County sits at the crossroads of the Northeast. New York City is 125 miles southeast. Philadelphia is 120 miles south. Binghamton is 50 miles north. Wilkes-Barre is immediately adjacent. This positioning allows businesses to reach 60 million consumers within a four-hour drive.
Transportation infrastructure supports this advantage: Interstate 81 runs north-south through the county, Interstate 84 provides east-west connections, Interstate 380 links to Interstate 80 and the Poconos, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I-476) is just 20 miles away. The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport offers direct flights to major hubs.
Connect with Lackawanna County Businesses
Whether you're seeking local services, exploring dining options, finding healthcare providers, or researching business opportunities, our directory connects you with Lackawanna County's diverse business community. From Scranton's urban core to the scenic countryside, from major medical centers to corner delis that have served neighborhoods for generations, discover what makes Lackawanna County a smart place to do business.
Lackawanna County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
215,834
Median Age
41.9 years
Population Density
2 communities
Lackawanna County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$64,691
Poverty Rate
14%
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
Lackawanna County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$189,900
Median Rent
$973/mo
Owner Occupied
65%
Lackawanna County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lackawanna County
What is the population of Lackawanna County?
As of 2023, Lackawanna County has a population of approximately 215,834 residents, making it the 5th most populous county in northeastern Pennsylvania. The population has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with the highest concentration in Scranton and the Mid-Valley region.
What are the major cities and towns in Lackawanna County?
The largest city is Scranton (county seat) with 76,000 residents, followed by Dunmore, Clarks Summit, Carbondale, Moosic, and Dickson City. The county comprises 40 municipalities with over 5,800 businesses distributed across urban Scranton, suburban communities, and rural townships in the Abingtons and northern regions.
How do I start a business in Lackawanna County?
Starting a business requires registering with the PA Department of State, obtaining an EIN from the IRS, and securing local permits through your municipality. Scranton requires a business privilege and mercantile license, while other townships have varying requirements. The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center offers free counseling and the Chamber of Commerce provides networking opportunities.
What are the major employers in Lackawanna County?
The largest employers include Geisinger Community Medical Center (5,000+ employees), Moses Taylor Hospital, the University of Scranton, Lackawanna County government, Tobyhanna Army Depot (nearby), Amazon distribution center, and Allied Services. The county's healthcare and education sectors dominate employment with over 20,000 combined jobs.
What is the average commercial rent in Lackawanna County?
Commercial rental rates vary by location: downtown Scranton office space averages $10-15/sq ft, retail spaces in Dickson City run $15-25/sq ft, and warehouse space along the Casey Highway costs $5-8/sq ft. These rates are 40-60% lower than Philadelphia or New York metro areas, making Lackawanna attractive for business expansion.
What business incentives are available in Lackawanna County?
Lackawanna County offers KOZ (Keystone Opportunity Zone) tax abatements, LERTA programs for property improvements, New Market Tax Credits in qualified census tracts, and workforce development grants through the Scranton-Lackawanna Human Resource Center. The Scranton Plan provides additional downtown incentives.
How far is Lackawanna County from major cities?
Scranton is strategically located 125 miles from New York City (2.5 hours), 120 miles from Philadelphia (2 hours), 50 miles from Binghamton (1 hour), and immediately adjacent to Wilkes-Barre. This provides access to over 60 million consumers within a 4-hour drive, ideal for distribution and regional services.
What highways run through Lackawanna County?
Major highways include Interstate 81 (north-south connecting Syracuse to Harrisburg), Interstate 84 (east-west to New England), Interstate 380 (connecting to I-80 and the Poconos), US Route 6 (east-west), and US Route 11 (north-south). The Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I-476) is 20 miles away.
What is the workforce like in Lackawanna County?
Lackawanna County has a labor force of approximately 102,000 workers with strong healthcare and manufacturing skills. The median age is 42 years, providing experienced workers. With four colleges and universities in the county educating 15,000+ students annually, businesses have access to both skilled trades and college-educated talent.
What languages are spoken in Lackawanna County?
While English predominates, approximately 8% of the population speaks Spanish at home, with growing Latino communities in South Scranton and Carbondale. The county also has significant Italian, Irish, and Eastern European heritage communities. Many businesses in the healthcare and service sectors offer multilingual services.
Is Lackawanna County good for manufacturing businesses?
Yes, Lackawanna County maintains a strong manufacturing heritage with 15,000+ manufacturing jobs across 250+ manufacturing businesses. The skilled workforce, lower costs than metro areas, excellent Interstate 81 access, and proximity to major markets make it ideal for manufacturing. The county excels in food processing, plastics, and metal fabrication.
How is the healthcare sector in Lackawanna County?
Healthcare is the largest employment sector with over 1,000 health-related businesses including Geisinger Community Medical Center, Moses Taylor Hospital, Regional Hospital of Scranton, and Allied Services. The sector employs 20,000+ workers and continues expanding with new specialty clinics and medical technology companies.
Where are the main commercial districts in Lackawanna County?
Key commercial areas include downtown Scranton (revitalizing urban core), the Viewmont Mall area in Dickson City (regional retail hub), the Casey Highway corridor (big box retail and restaurants), Clarks Summit (upscale shopping), and the Green Ridge section of Scranton (neighborhood businesses).
What is the sales tax in Lackawanna County?
Pennsylvania's 6% sales tax applies throughout Lackawanna County with no additional local sales tax. Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment are tax-exempt. This competitive rate benefits the county's retail businesses compared to New York's higher rates just 30 miles north.
Is Lackawanna County growing?
While population remains stable, economic development is strong with downtown Scranton's renaissance, new medical facilities, and warehouse developments along Interstate 81. The county has added over 400 new businesses in the past three years, with particular growth in healthcare, hospitality, and logistics sectors.
What is the cost of living in Lackawanna County?
Lackawanna County offers affordable living with median home values at $189,900 and median household income at $64,691. The overall cost of living is 10% below the national average and 30-40% lower than New York or Philadelphia metros, attracting workers and retirees while supporting local businesses.
Does Lackawanna County have public transportation?
COLTS (County of Lackawanna Transit System) operates 26 fixed bus routes throughout the county, connecting major employment centers, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods. The Electric City Trolley Museum operates seasonal heritage trolley service. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, but public transit serves urban corridors effectively.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Lackawanna County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business permit, health permit from the Lackawanna County Health Department (or PA Department of Agriculture), liquor license if applicable from PLCB, and fire safety inspection. Scranton requires additional city permits. The process typically takes 2-3 months.
How do Lackawanna County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Lackawanna County's average effective property tax rate is 1.89%, higher than Luzerne (1.44%) and Monroe (1.69%) but lower than Wayne (2.07%). Combined with lower property values than the Poconos region, total tax bills remain competitive for businesses and residents.
Are there co-working spaces in Lackawanna County?
Yes, Lackawanna County has several co-working spaces including the Scranton Enterprise Center, tecBRIDGE, and spaces in downtown Scranton's restored buildings. These serve the county's growing freelance and startup community. Rates range from $100-350/month for dedicated desks, supporting the county's 450+ professional services businesses.
What banks offer small business loans in Lackawanna County?
Major lenders include PNC Bank, M&T Bank, NBT Bank, FNCB (First National Community Bank), Peoples Security Bank, and Penn East Federal Credit Union. The University of Scranton SBDC provides free assistance with loan applications and business planning for the county's 5,800+ businesses.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Lackawanna County?
Healthcare services, logistics/warehousing (leveraging I-81 access), tourism/hospitality (capitalizing on outdoor recreation), and professional services show strong growth. Downtown Scranton's tech startup scene and the craft beverage industry are emerging sectors attracting younger entrepreneurs.
Can I operate a home-based business in Lackawanna County?
Yes, most Lackawanna County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary by township but typically limit customer visits, signage, and employees. Scranton has specific home occupation permits. Check with your municipality among the county's 40 communities for local zoning regulations.
What outdoor recreation businesses thrive in Lackawanna County?
Outdoor recreation is a growing sector with Montage Mountain Ski Resort, Lackawanna State Park, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, and proximity to the Pocono Mountains. Businesses offering skiing, hiking tours, bike rentals, fishing guides, and outdoor equipment see strong seasonal demand from both residents and tourists.
How does the University of Scranton impact local businesses?
The University of Scranton, with 5,000+ students and 1,000+ employees, significantly impacts the local economy. It generates demand for housing, restaurants, retail, and services while providing educated workforce, research partnerships, and cultural events. The university's $200+ million annual economic impact supports hundreds of local businesses.