If you ask locals where you should consider living in Wilkes-Barre, PA, many will nod knowingly and suggest Heights, one of the city's most distinct, family-friendly neighborhoods. Set on a hillside just southeast of downtown, Heights boasts a blend of neighborly warmth, accessible amenities, and practical proximity that make it stand out not just for affordability, but for genuine community spirit. Here’s what you need to know if you're thinking about making Heights your home.
Community Vibe: Welcoming and Down-to-Earth
Heights is known for its strong sense of community. Residents wave to each other from porches, kids ride bikes up and down the gentle slopes of High Street and Blackman Street, and neighbors genuinely look out for one another.
- The neighborhood is diverse, with families who’ve lived here for generations as well as newcomers.
- Block parties, church events (notably at St. Nicholas Church on Washington Street), and Little League games at local fields bring everyone together.
- You’ll find people chatting on front steps, exchanging gardening tips, or gathering at the neighborhood fixtures like the Dunkin’ on North Street.
If you crave a place where people remember your name and look out for your kids, Heights delivers.
Types of Housing: Variety for Every Stage of Life
Heights offers an appealing mix of housing, reflecting its longstanding roots and ongoing renewal.
- Older single-family homes abound, many built in the early 1900s, featuring solid craftsmanship, spacious porches, and mature trees.
- For first-time buyers or young professionals, there are affordable row homes and smaller Cape Cod–style houses lining streets like Carlisle and Barney.
- Rental options range from converted duplexes to updated apartments, appealing to college students from Wilkes University or folks working at nearby institutions.
Yards tend to be a bit larger than in downtown Wilkes-Barre and it’s common to see neighbors tending flower beds or growing tomatoes along their fences.
Walkability: Everyday Conveniences on Foot
Heights enjoys a layout that makes daily life easy, especially if you like to walk.
- Most errands can be run without a car: the Rite Aid and Price Chopper on Blackman Street, corner stores like Heights Market on Horton, and local pizzerias are just a stroll away.
- The sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the sloping terrain gives you a workout without feeling strenuous.
- There’s a dedicated walking/biking trail running near Hollenback Park for fitness enthusiasts or pet owners.
Streets like North Grant and Park Avenue connect seamlessly to main thoroughfares, helping you move around town with ease.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in Heights enjoy access to several well-rated schools within the Wilkes-Barre Area School District.
- Heights-Murray Elementary School, located right within the neighborhood on South Sherman, is especially convenient for young families.
- Secondary students are bused to Solomon-Plains Junior High or Wilkes-Barre Area High, but Heights’ walkable core means less morning hustle for parents with younger kids.
- The neighborhood is known for active PTA groups, youth soccer leagues, and booster programs.
With its quiet side streets, ample parks, and community events, Heights delivers the classic “ride-your-bike-to-school” Americana that makes it a great fit for raising children.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature Close to Home
Outdoor spaces are a highlight of Heights living.
- Miner Park and the nearby Hollenback Park offer green escapes for walking, playing, or picnicking. Hollenback Golf Course provides scenic views for joggers and golfers alike.
- Playground equipment, basketball courts, and baseball diamonds are common gathering spots on weekends.
- Tree-lined streets and backyard gardens burst with color in spring and summer, making it easy to relax outdoors.
Many residents mention how seasonal events—like summer movie nights or fall pumpkin decorating at Miner Park—help foster a small-town, communal atmosphere.
Safety: A Watchful, Caring Neighborhood
Heights is often described as one of the safer neighborhoods in Wilkes-Barre.
- Its elevated position makes it a little quieter and less trafficked than areas downtown.
- The presence of long-time residents means people keep an eye out, and the local community watch group is active through social media and meetings.
- Wilkes-Barre Police regularly patrol the main streets, and there’s a visible presence during school drop-off and pickup times.
As with any urban area, common sense precautions are recommended, but most residents report feeling comfortable walking dogs at night or letting kids play in the yard.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
One of the biggest perks of living in Heights is how close you are to everything that Wilkes-Barre offers without feeling crowded in.
- Downtown is less than a 5-minute drive or an easy bike ride—just head down Park Ave or North Washington.
- Major employers, like Wilkes University, King’s College, and Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, are a short commute away.
- Luzerne County Courthouse, shopping centers on Scott Street, and the Susquehanna River Commons are all conveniently reachable.
The result: your commute is short, but home still feels tucked away.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone who lives in Heights what sets their neighborhood apart, and you’ll hear common themes:
- The porch-sitting culture—where evenings are spent chatting with neighbors or just enjoying the breezes off the hillside.
- The easy access to both city amenities and quiet green spaces.
- The fact that kids can still walk to ballfields, swing on tire swings, or sled down neighborhood hills in winter.
- Strong roots—many families stay for decades, and new faces are warmly welcomed.
Heights is not so much a place you pass through as one you grow into and, for many, never want to leave.
Local Streets and Landmarks to Know
- High Street, Blackman Street, and Park Avenue form the main arteries of the neighborhood.
- Hollenback Park and Golf Course for recreation.
- Heights-Murray Elementary as the neighborhood’s central school.
- St. Nicholas Church and the Heights Market as local institutions.
Final Thoughts
For families, young professionals, or anyone seeking a friendly, practical neighborhood vibe, Heights is a standout. With its welcoming community, convenient lifestyle, and classic Wilkes-Barre charm, this hillside haven offers all the essentials—and more—for making a house truly feel like home.