Lackawanna County, situated in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, is home to a population exceeding 200,000. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites like the Steamtown National Historic Site, Electric City Trolley Museum, and Montage Mountain Ski Resort, the county also grapples with instances of crime and violence.
The safety of neighborhoods within Lackawanna County varies, with some being safer while others should be approached cautiously. Here are the five neighborhoods considered the most dangerous in Lackawanna County, as indicated by crime statistics and assessments from various sources.
Scranton
Scranton, the county seat and largest city with around 76,000 residents, rests along the Lackawanna River. As one of Pennsylvania’s oldest cities, it hosts institutions like the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College.
Despite its educational and historical significance, Scranton contends with elevated crime rates. The incidence of crime here surpasses the national average by 38%, with violent crime rates exceeding the national norm by 76%.
On average, a crime occurs every 23 minutes in Scranton, which has a population density of roughly 3,500 residents per square mile. The likelihood of falling victim to a crime in this city could be as high as 1 in 20.
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Carbondale
North of Scranton along U.S. Route 6, Carbondale, home to about 8,000 residents, originated as a coal mining town in 1822. Known for its industrial history and being one of Pennsylvania’s earliest settlements, Carbondale experiences higher-than-average crime rates.
Incidents of crime exceed the national average by 35%, with violent crime rates surpassing the norm by 71%. On average, a crime transpires every 25 minutes in Carbondale, which boasts a population density of around 2,000 residents per square mile. The possibility of encountering crime here is notably elevated, potentially reaching 1 in 21.
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Dunmore
East of Scranton along Interstate 81 lies Dunmore, a borough inhabited by approximately 13,000 people. Established in 1862, Dunmore features parks, schools, churches, and businesses. However, this area also contends with heightened crime rates.
Crime rates exceed the national average by 32%, with violent crime rates surpassing the norm by 67%. On average, a crime occurs every 26 minutes in Dunmore, which has a population density of roughly 3,000 residents per square mile. The likelihood of falling victim to crime in this borough could be as high as 1 in 22.
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Old Forge
Situated south of Scranton along State Route 502, Old Forge, inhabited by approximately 8,000 people, was settled in the late 18th century. Known for its unique pizza style and historical background, Old Forge contends with crime rates higher than the national average.
Crime rates exceed the norm by 30%, with violent crime rates surpassing the national average by 63%. On average, a crime transpires every 27 minutes in Old Forge, which has a population density of around 2,000 residents per square mile. The likelihood of encountering crime here is elevated, potentially reaching 1 in 23.
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Archbald
Northeast of Scranton along U.S. Route 6 is Archbald, a borough home to around 7,000 residents. Established in 1877, Archbald features landmarks such as the Archbald Pothole State Park. However, this area contends with higher-than-average crime rates.
Crime rates exceed the national average by 28%, with violent crime rates surpassing the norm by 56%. On average, a crime occurs every 28 minutes in Archbald, which has a population density of about 1,000 residents per square mile. The possibility of encountering crime in this borough is notable, potentially reaching 1 in 24.
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Conclusion
These neighborhoods represent the five most dangerous areas in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, based on available data. However, it’s important to remember that crime can occur anywhere and at any time. To ensure personal safety, remaining vigilant and aware of surroundings is paramount.
For residents or visitors of these areas, taking precautions such as securing doors and windows, avoiding isolated places after dark, reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement, and considering home security measures can contribute to a safer environment.
