18706 Property Tax Rate

Property owners in ZIP code 18706 (Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania) pay a median of $2,213/year in property taxes on homes valued at $121,900. This translates to an effective tax rate of 1.82%, which is 35% above the Pennsylvania state average of 1.34%.

The monthly property tax burden for a median-valued home in 18706 is approximately $184, which factors into escrow payments on mortgages. This ZIP code is located within Luzerne County. This is $591 less than the Pennsylvania average of $2,804/year.

Compared to similar ZIP codes in Pennsylvania, 18706 has lower property taxes. ZIP codes with similar effective rates include 17959 (1.81%) and 16442 (1.82%).

In Wilkes Barre, property taxes represent approximately 3.8% of the median household income of $57,546, providing context for the relative tax burden on homeowners in this area.

Pennsylvania does not reassess property at sale; your assessed value remains stable unless the property is physically improved or the county conducts a countywide reassessment. Luzerne County offers a Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for seniors (62+), widows, and disabled persons earning ≤$35,000 annually — apply by June 30 each year through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Register your Homestead Exclusion claim with your school district immediately upon purchase; the exclusion amount is district-specific and applies only to school operating taxes.