If you’re considering making South Side, Scranton your next place to call home, you’ll find an authentic neighborhood with deep roots and a strong sense of community. Nestled just south of downtown Scranton, South Side isn't as flashy as the city’s Hill Section or as suburban as Green Ridge, but it offers a unique blend of affordability, convenience, and local spirit that many residents wouldn’t trade for anything. Here’s what living in South Side Scranton is truly like, from one neighbor to another.
Community Vibe: Friendly Faces and Local Pride
South Side is the kind of place where folks still wave hello from their porches. You’ll notice families that have lived here for generations, blended with younger couples and newcomers who quickly feel welcome. The neighborhood hosts frequent events at places like Connell Park and the South Side Farmers Market on Cedar Avenue, bringing everyone together for food, music, and a sense of belonging.
Neighbors often describe South Side as “down to earth” and “unpretentious.” Community pride shines through in small ways—like decorated front yards along Birch Street, the annual Shamrock Run, and concerts at the South Side Sports Complex.
Types of Housing: Classic Homes and Affordable Living
Housing in South Side reflects its working-class heritage. You’ll find a mix of:
- Classic single-family homes, many built in the early-to-mid 1900s with sturdy brick or stone facades and roomy front stoops.
- Duplexes and twin homes, especially along Pittston Avenue and Maple Street, providing budget-friendly options for families or first-time buyers.
- Smaller apartment buildings are scattered throughout, often tucked behind historic storefronts on Cedar Avenue.
A typical home here boasts two or three bedrooms, a cozy backyard for family barbecues, and plenty of character. Many homes have been updated while maintaining their original charm—think wood floors, roomy kitchens, and original moldings.
Walkability: Errands and Outings on Foot
South Side’s layout makes it easy to get around on foot or by bus. Need a quick bite? Grab hoagies from Carmen’s on Pittston Avenue or a pizza from a corner shop on Prospect. Morning routines often include a walk to South Side Wash House for your laundry or picking up essentials at Gerrity’s Supermarket.
Key corridors like Pittston Avenue and Birch Street feature a mix of small businesses, ethnic groceries, delis, and bakeries—making it simple to walk or bike for most daily needs. Wide sidewalks and residential streets make South Side especially pedestrian-friendly.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: A Supportive Community for Kids
Many young families appreciate South Side for its mix of neighborhood schools and childcare options. Neil Armstrong Elementary on Prospect Avenue and South Scranton Intermediate serve local students, with a reputation for caring teachers and community involvement. The area also offers several well-regarded daycare centers and preschools nearby.
With playgrounds at Connell Park—featuring sports fields and one of the region’s oldest carousel pavilions—there’s always somewhere safe for kids to burn off energy. Summer brings baseball games and picnics, while wintertime sees neighborhood sledding at the park’s gentle hills.
Parks and Green Spaces: Recreation Around Every Corner
One of South Side’s greatest features is its green spaces. Connell Park is the neighborhood centerpiece, beloved for its lush lawns, baseball and softball diamonds, public swimming pool, and shady picnic areas. The park welcomes all ages, hosting bocce tournaments, holiday events, and even a small skate park.
Nearby, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail runs just outside South Side’s western boundary, offering a leafy escape for joggers, cyclists, and dog-walkers. Community gardens off Pittston Avenue bloom in the summer, and you’ll often see families tending plots or sharing fresh tomatoes.
Safety: Peace of Mind with Neighborhood Watch
Residents will tell you that South Side feels safe, especially compared with more bustling parts of the city. Most blocks are watched over by residents who know each other and look out for neighbor’s property. While no neighborhood is perfect, routine police patrols, active neighborhood watch groups, and visible community involvement help maintain a secure environment.
Simply put, if you’re moving with kids or enjoy strolling after dark, South Side offers a comforting atmosphere where people take care of one another.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: Convenience Meets Quiet
One of the biggest advantages of South Side living is its location. Just a five-minute drive (or a modest bus ride) up Pittston Avenue takes you straight into downtown Scranton. Commuters working at Geisinger Community Medical Center, the University of Scranton, or in the city’s business district appreciate the short, hassle-free commute.
Route 11 and Interstate 81 are just minutes away, making travel to Wilkes-Barre or farther afield a breeze. Public transit options are robust, with several County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS) bus lines crossing through the area.
What Residents Love Most: Stories from the Heart
Ask anyone who’s settled in South Side, and they’ll likely mention a few favorite things:
- Connell Park concerts and summer festivals—true highlights for all ages
- Friendly locally-owned businesses, from iconic diners to new coffee shops
- Being able to walk or bike nearly everywhere—errands feel easy, not like chores
- The genuine, “everybody knows your name” culture that makes new residents feel at home fast
Locals repeatedly say that what sets South Side apart isn’t just its location or its homes, but the people: hardworking, supportive, and proud to keep their corner of Scranton warm and welcoming.
Whether you’re looking for your first home, a family-friendly neighborhood, or simply a place where neighbors still watch out for each other, South Side Scranton continues to offer a lifestyle rooted in tradition with room to grow.