Mortgage Rates in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Wilkes-Barre market data and regional lending conditions
Wilkes-Barre is a smaller Pennsylvania community of 40,569 where the housing market reflects local economic conditions. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.74% (0.65% above the national average). At a median home price of $224,000, the estimated $1,428/month payment (with 20% down) is affordable on the local median income of $65,800.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Wilkes-Barre, PA, the current 30-year rate is 6.74%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.98% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.5%) and VA loans (6.25%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Wilkes-Barre area as of April 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% | 6.09% | +0.65% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.98% | 5.58% | +0.4% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.25% | 5.95% | +0.3% |
| FHA | 6.5% | 5.85% | +0.65% |
| VA | 6.25% | 5.65% | +0.6% |
| Jumbo | 6.99% | 6.25% | +0.74% |
Wilkes-Barre Housing Market Overview
At $224,000, Wilkes-Barre offers more affordable housing than most U.S. metros. The local cost of living index is 89.9 (100 = national average), and the median household income of $65,800 provides comfortable purchasing power in this market.
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 April 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 0.65% above the national average of 6.09%.
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
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for Pennsylvania regional spread.
- Median home price: $224,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 1.43% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $65,800 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 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.