Mortgage Rates in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Wilkes-Barre market data and regional lending conditions
Wilkes-Barre is a growing city in Pennsylvania with a population of 40,569. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Wilkes-Barre is 6.74%, which is 0.09% above the national average. With a median home price of $224,000 and a 20% down payment of $44,800, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $1,161.
Current Mortgage Rates in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Wilkes-Barre area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.74% | 6.65% | +0.09% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.98% | 5.89% | +0.09% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.25% | 6.15% | +0.1% |
| FHA | 6.5% | 6.25% | +0.25% |
| VA | 6.25% | 6.05% | +0.2% |
| Jumbo | 6.99% | 6.85% | +0.14% |
Wilkes-Barre Housing Market Overview
The Wilkes-Barre housing market offers relatively affordable housing compared to many major cities. The median household income in Wilkes-Barre is $65,800, and the cost of living index is 89.9 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, the median income in Wilkes-Barre is sufficient to afford the median-priced home.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Wilkes-Barre
Based on the median home price of $224,000 with 20% down ($44,800), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Wilkes-Barre:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Wilkes-Barre
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Wilkes-Barre at 5.98% instead of a 30-year at 6.74% would save you $146,160 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,510 instead of $1,161 — an increase of $349 per month.
Calculate Your Wilkes-Barre Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Wilkes-Barre
What are the current mortgage rates in Wilkes-Barre, PA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania is 6.74%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.98%. FHA loans average 6.5% and VA loans 6.25%. These rates are 0.09% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Wilkes-Barre?
Based on the median home price of $224,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Wilkes-Barre is $1,161 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $267/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,428.
What income do I need to buy a home in Wilkes-Barre?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $61,200 to afford the median-priced home in Wilkes-Barre at $224,000. The median household income in Wilkes-Barre is $65,800. The median income is currently sufficient to meet this threshold.
Is Wilkes-Barre a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Wilkes-Barre offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 89.9 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in Pennsylvania is 1.43%, which is near the national average. Wilkes-Barre has a population of 40,569 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other Pennsylvania Cities
Related Tools & Guides
Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.