Hill Section, Scranton Real Estate Xyntra
Hill Section, Scranton Real Estate – Market Overview and Homes for Sale 2026
Perched above downtown Scranton, the Hill Section blends architectural heritage, hillside views, and close proximity to the city’s universities and hospitals. Known for its wide porches, mature trees, and academic vibe, this neighborhood has long attracted educators, medical staff, and families who appreciate character homes within walking distance of key institutions.
In 2026, Hill Section stands as a strong mid-market district — slightly more affordable than Green Ridge but more residential and cohesive than downtown. Its combination of Victorian homes, stable appreciation, and community appeal makes it one of Scranton’s most enduring neighborhoods.
Market Overview and Price Dynamics (2016–2026)
Over the last decade, the Hill Section has experienced a steady rise in values with low volatility. The area benefits from its proximity to Geisinger Community Medical Center and the University of Scranton, both of which generate consistent housing demand from staff, students, and investors.
| Year | Average Home Value (Hill Section) | Average $/sq ft | Equivalent $/m² |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $134,000 | $77 | $829/m² |
| 2018 | $147,000 | $85 | $915/m² |
| 2020 | $163,000 | $91 | $980/m² |
| 2023 | $180,000 | $101 | $1,086/m² |
| 2025 | $186,600 | $106 | $1,141/m² |
The median home price in 2026 is expected to reach $190,000, slightly below Green Ridge but above the city’s downtown median. The average price per square foot is around $106 (~$1,141/m²), marking an 8–10% increase from 2024 levels.
Housing Stock and Architecture
Hill Section is best known for its early 1900s architecture — Victorian, Craftsman, and Four-Square homes, many with expansive porches and natural wood details. A smaller share of duplexes and multi-family buildings serve the rental market, catering to university tenants.
| Property Type | Typical Size | Average Price (2026) | Buyer/Renter Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victorian & Colonial Homes | 160–260 m² | $200,000–$260,000 | Professionals, families, academics |
| Craftsman Bungalows | 120–170 m² | $160,000–$200,000 | First-time buyers |
| Multi-Unit Duplexes | 180–250 m² | $210,000–$270,000 | Owner-occupants, investors |
| Student Rentals (near U of S) | 140–220 m² | $180,000–$230,000 | Landlords, short-term investors |
Homes near Monroe Avenue and Linden Street typically command higher prices due to elevation, condition, and proximity to the university. Properties farther east provide better affordability but may require renovations.
Infrastructure, Education, and Lifestyle
The Hill Section offers one of Scranton’s most convenient combinations of walkability, healthcare access, and family-friendly amenities. Despite being a hillside area, the layout is pedestrian-friendly, with schools, parks, and grocery stores within a short distance.
- Transportation: 5 minutes to Downtown via Mulberry Street; access to I-81 within 10 minutes.
- Education: Close to University of Scranton and Marywood University; zoned for well-rated public schools.
- Healthcare: Adjacent to Geisinger Community Medical Center — a major regional hospital and top local employer.
- Recreation: Hill Section Park, Nay Aug Park (with a zoo and waterfall), and community tennis courts.
- Local Life: Coffee houses, small groceries, and long-established family-run diners line the main streets.
The neighborhood’s combination of accessibility and elevation also gives it excellent air quality compared to lower areas of the city.
Safety and Resident Feedback
Hill Section scores consistently above the city average in perceived safety and upkeep. Local watch groups and active homeowner associations contribute to the area’s reputation for calm streets and neighborly culture. Night activity is moderate, mostly related to student movement, but serious incidents are rare.
Safer zones: Blocks around Olive Street, Webster Avenue, and Quincy Avenue near the hospitals and schools.
Moderate zones: Areas closer to Mulberry Street or the southern edge near campus housing, where turnover is higher.
For buyers, the key to value retention in Hill Section lies in maintaining older properties — many homes here are 80–100 years old and require ongoing upkeep, but once restored, they command a clear premium.
Market Trends and Demand Drivers (2025–2026)
Hill Section’s appeal rests on three major drivers: proximity to major employers, architectural quality, and affordable mid-range pricing. Rental demand has grown steadily, especially among graduate students and traveling nurses, supporting investors’ interest in duplexes.
- Average days on market: 26–30 days for well-priced homes.
- Rental yield: 6–7% annually, stronger than the city average.
- Homeownership rate: 62%, above downtown but below Green Ridge.
- Renovation ROI: Interior modernization yields 80–85% resale recovery.
- Appreciation (2020–2025): +14.6%, expected +3–5% in 2026.
The presence of educational and healthcare anchors ensures long-term stability, while scenic hillside views continue to attract owner-occupants over transient renters.
Why Choose Hill Section in 2026
Advantages:
- Balanced pricing between affordability and long-term value.
- Architectural variety and high renovation potential.
- Close to hospitals and universities — steady demand.
- Strong community identity and low crime rate.
- Walkability and proximity to parks and recreation areas.
Possible Drawbacks:
- Older housing stock — maintenance costs can be significant.
- Parking limitations on narrow streets.
- Winter conditions may affect hillside accessibility.
For 2026, Hill Section stands as Scranton’s most balanced residential area: livable, historic, and growing at a sustainable pace. Its character, elevation, and long-term value stability continue to attract families and professionals seeking a middle ground between city vibrancy and suburban calm.