Real Estate Agent in Scranton, PA

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Real Estate Agents considering Scranton, Pennsylvania.

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The Salary Picture: Where Scranton Stands

Scranton’s real estate market operates on a different scale than Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. As a local, I can tell you it’s a city where relationships and community ties matter more than flash. The median salary for a Real Estate Agent here is $60,188/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.94/hour. While the national average sits slightly higher at $61,480/year, the lower cost of living in Lackawanna County means your dollar stretches further than in most metro areas.

The job market is stable but not explosive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre metro area, there are approximately 151 jobs for Real Estate Agents and Brokers. The 10-year job growth is projected at 3%, which is modest but steady. You aren't coming here for a boomtown experience; you're coming for stability and a market that rewards consistency.

Experience-Level Earnings Breakdown

In Scranton, your earning potential is directly tied to your sphere of influence and your hustle. The community is tight-knit; word-of-mouth is your most powerful marketing tool.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Characteristics
Entry-Level	$40,000 - $50,000	Building a client base, working with seasoned agents, focusing on rentals and starter homes in neighborhoods like West Side or Green Ridge.
Mid-Level	$55,000 - $70,000	Established referral network, handling a mix of residential sales and some commercial listings. Comfortable in South Scranton or Dickson City.
Senior-Level	$70,000 - $90,000	Specializing in high-end markets (e.g., Clarks Summit, Dalton), handling estate sales, and potentially managing a small team.
Expert/Top Producer	$100,000+	Dominates a specific niche (luxury, commercial, investment properties), has a strong brand, and often works with out-of-area buyers (NY/NJ).

Insider Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of being a "neighborhood expert." In Scranton, knowing the subtle differences between Clarks Summit’s HOA rules versus the older homes in South Side Squirrel Hill can make you the go-to agent for a specific demographic.

Comparison to Other PA Cities

Scranton offers a middle ground between the high-cost, high-volume markets of the southeast and the slower pace of Central PA.

City	Median Annual Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Average 1BR Rent
Scranton	$60,188	93.0	$854/month
Philadelphia	$68,500	101.2	$1,650/month
Pittsburgh	$62,500	97.5	$1,200/month
Harrisburg	$58,200	95.1	$1,050/month

While Philadelphia offers a higher ceiling, the competition is fierce and the overhead (rent, marketing costs) is double that of Scranton. In Scranton, your $60,188 salary goes significantly further.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. For an agent earning the median salary of $60,188/year, the financial picture in Scranton is generally manageable, but you must plan for the irregular income stream common in real estate.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $60,188 Annual Salary):

• Gross Monthly Income: $5,016
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA ~25%): -$1,254
• Net Monthly Income: ~$3,762
• Average 1BR Rent: -$854
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Car, Insurance, Marketing: $2,908

This budget allows for a comfortable lifestyle. The average rent of $854/month is a fraction of what you’d pay in Philadelphia or New York, freeing up capital for professional development, MLS fees, and marketing materials.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of Scranton’s biggest draws. With a Cost of Living Index of 93.0, housing is affordable.

• Median Home Price in Scranton Metro: ~$185,000
• Down Payment (10%): $18,500
• Estimated Monthly Mortgage (PITI): ~$1,400 - $1,600

For an agent earning $60,188, a monthly mortgage of $1,500 represents roughly 30% of your net income, which is within standard guidelines. Many agents I know bought their first home within 2-3 years of starting their career, leveraging first-time homebuyer programs specific to Pennsylvania.

Where the Jobs Are: Scranton's Major Employers

While most agents work for brokerages, understanding the broader employment landscape helps you identify where your clients are coming from. Scranton’s economy is diversified, anchored by healthcare, education, and logistics.

1. Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine: Located in downtown Scranton, this is a massive driver for the local economy. It attracts students, faculty, and researchers from across the country, many of whom eventually look to buy homes. Hiring Trend: Steady growth in support staff and faculty positions.
2. The University of Scranton: A Jesuit institution with over 5,000 students. The campus creates a consistent demand for rentals in the surrounding Hyde Park and Green Ridge neighborhoods. Hiring Trend: Stable with seasonal fluctuations.
3. Geisinger Health System: One of the largest employers in Northeast PA. With a major hospital in Wilkes-Barre and clinics throughout Scranton, the system employs thousands of nurses, doctors, and administrative staff. Hiring Trend: Aggressive expansion in outpatient services.
4. Nay Aug Corporation: A major apparel and accessory manufacturer with a significant presence in the region. They provide stable, middle-class jobs that fuel the housing market in areas like South Scranton and Moosic. Hiring Trend: Steady, focused on modernization.
5. Amazon Fulfillment Center (Fairview Township): Just outside Scranton, this facility employs thousands in logistics and warehousing. It has attracted a wave of workers looking for affordable housing within a reasonable commute. Hiring Trend: High volume, high turnover, but consistent hiring.
6. Lackawanna County Government: The county seat employs a large number of public servants. These jobs offer stability and benefits, making these employees reliable buyers and sellers. Hiring Trend: Stable, with periodic hiring for specific roles.

Insider Tip: Track hiring announcements. When Amazon or Geisinger announces a new shift or department, be the agent who creates a "Welcome to Scranton" guide for new hires and circulates it to HR departments (with permission).

Getting Licensed in PA

Pennsylvania has a structured but straightforward licensing process managed by the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA).

Requirements:

1. Age & Residency: Must be 18+ and a PA resident (or a resident of a reciprocal state).
2. Education: Complete 60 hours of pre-licensing education from a BPOA-approved school. This covers PA real estate law, practices, and ethics. Cost: $400 - $600.
3. Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. Cost: ~$120.
4. Exam: Pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Salesperson Exam (administered by PSI). The exam fee is $65.
5. Application: Submit your application to the BPOA along with the $107 licensing fee.
6. Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by a licensed Pennsylvania broker to activate your license.

Total Estimated Cost to Get Licensed: $692 - $892 (excluding education course materials).

Timeline:

• Study & Course Completion: 4-8 weeks (part-time).
• Schedule & Pass Exam: 1-2 weeks.
• Application Processing: 2-4 weeks.
• Total: You can be active in 2-3 months if you move quickly.

Insider Tip: Join the Northeast Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (NEPAR) immediately after getting your license. Their mentorship program is invaluable for navigating the local market nuances.

Best Neighborhoods for Real Estate Agents

Scranton is a city of distinct neighborhoods. As an agent, you’ll likely specialize in one or two. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to live and work.

1. Green Ridge: The "prestige" neighborhood. Tree-lined streets, historic Victorian and colonial homes, and a strong sense of community. It’s popular with established professionals and families.

   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100
   • Agent Vibe: Upscale, high-touch service. A great place to live if you’re targeting the upper-middle market.

2. West Side: More affordable and diverse. A mix of older homes, new construction, and multi-family properties. It’s close to the University of Scranton, making it great for rental investors.

   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $750 - $900
   • Agent Vibe: Hustle-heavy. Lots of first-time buyers, investors, and rental turnovers.

3. Clarks Summit (Borough): Technically just outside Scranton, this is where many agents and professionals choose to live. Excellent schools, a walkable downtown, and a slightly higher price point.

   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200
   • Agent Vibe: Family-oriented, suburban. A great base for agents who want a quieter home life but easy access to the city.

4. Downtown Scranton: Revitalizing urban core. Loft apartments, historic buildings, and a growing arts and nightlife scene. It attracts younger agents and empty-nesters.

   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,400
   • Agent Vibe: Modern, network-focused. Great for building a brand around urban living and commercial real estate.

5. South Scranton: A working-class neighborhood with strong community bonds. More affordable housing stock, making it a key area for first-time buyers and those using FHA loans.

   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $700 - $850
   • Agent Vibe: Gritty, rewarding. You’ll build a loyal client base here by being genuinely helpful and present in the community.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Scranton, career growth isn’t about jumping to a bigger city; it’s about deepening your expertise and expanding your service area.

Specialty Premiums:

• Commercial Real Estate: Specializing in retail, office, or industrial spaces (often tied to the logistics boom) can command higher commissions. Potential Premium: 15-25% over residential averages.
• Luxury Market (Clarks Summit/Dalton): Handling homes over $500,000 requires a specific skill set and network. The commission checks are larger, but the volume is lower.
• Property Management: With a strong rental market, managing portfolios for out-of-area investors can provide steady, recurring income.

Advancement Path:

1. Agent (0-2 years): Focus on volume and learning the contracts.
2. Specialist (2-5 years): Develop a niche (e.g., first-time buyers, historic homes).
3. Team Leader/Broker (5+ years): Build a team, mentor new agents, or open your own brokerage. Many top agents in Scranton eventually get their broker’s license to have more control.

10-Year Outlook:
The 3% job growth indicates a stable, but not rapidly expanding, market. Scranton’s population has been relatively flat. The opportunity lies in capturing the "move-up" market and serving the influx of buyers from higher-cost states (NY, NJ). The shift toward remote work has also made Scranton attractive to those who can work anywhere but want a lower cost of living. Agents who master digital marketing and virtual tours will have an edge.

The Verdict: Is Scranton Right for You?

Scranton is a fantastic choice for a Real Estate Agent who values lifestyle, community, and financial stability over chasing the highest possible commission in a cutthroat market.

Pros	Cons
Highly affordable cost of living. Your $60,188 salary feels like $80,000+ elsewhere.	Limited luxury market. The ceiling for earnings is lower than in major metros.
Stable, diverse economy with anchor employers (healthcare, education).	Modest job growth (3%). Market expansion is slow; you have to work for your market share.
Tight-knit community. Referrals and reputation are everything.	Requires deep local knowledge. You can’t fake knowing the difference between Green Ridge and West Side.
Excellent for buying a home. Affordable housing market.	Can feel insular. It’s a "who you know" town, which can be hard for newcomers.
Strategic location. Easy access to NYC, Philadelphia, and the Poconos.	Winters can be harsh. Snow days can impact showings and open houses.

Final Recommendation:
If you are a self-starter who enjoys building relationships, doesn’t mind a slower pace, and wants to own a home in a reasonable timeframe, Scranton is an excellent choice. The data shows a stable career with a median salary of $60,188 that goes a long way here. It’s not a get-rich-quick market, but it’s a place where you can build a prosperous, fulfilling career and life.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car in Scranton?
Yes, absolutely. While downtown is walkable, most showings, open houses, and client meetings are spread across Lackawanna County. Public transportation exists but is not comprehensive for a real estate professional’s needs.

2. How competitive is the Scranton market for new agents?
It’s competitive but not cutthroat. The 151 jobs in the metro area mean there are established agents, but there’s room for new blood. Your success will depend on finding a niche and being consistently present in your community. Joining a brokerage with a strong training program (like Coldwell Banker or RE/MAX affiliates in the area) is crucial.

3. What’s the biggest challenge for agents in Scranton?
Managing the income fluctuation. Scranton’s market has seasonal peaks (spring/summer). You need a financial buffer to get through the slower winter months. Budgeting carefully when you hit your $60,188 median is key to longevity.

4. Are there opportunities to work with investors?
Yes, particularly with multi-family properties in West Side and South Scranton. The rental demand is strong, and you can build a business helping out-of-area investors (often from NYC/NJ) acquire and manage properties. This is a growing niche.

5. How important is it to be a "Realtor" vs. just a "Real Estate Agent"?
In Scranton, very important. The Northeast Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (NEPAR) is the local MLS and professional hub. Being a member gives you access to the key listing database, forms, and a network of peers. It’s a standard expectation in the market.