Pittston, Pa
Pittston, Pennsylvania, is a city located in Luzerne County in the northeastern part of the state. Strategically positioned between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, Pittston sits at approximately 41.3259° N latitude and 75.7891° W longitude. The city lies along the banks of the Susquehanna River and is part of the larger Greater Pittston metropolitan area. Pittston is well-served by several major transportation routes, including Interstate 81, U.S. Route 11, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), making it a pivotal hub for commerce and travel in the region.
The city of Pittston encompasses several neighborhoods and adjacent boroughs, including Downtown Pittston, Junction, Oregon, Browntown, and the nearby boroughs of Yatesville, Jenkins Township, Exeter, West Pittston, and Duryea. The primary ZIP code for Pittston is 18640, but surrounding areas also include 18641 (Dupont), 18642 (Duryea), 18643 (Exeter), and 18644 (Hughestown). Pittston covers an area of approximately 1.7 square miles (4.4 km²), with an elevation of about 620 feet (189 meters) above sea level.
According to the most recent U.S. Census data, Pittston has a population of approximately 7,591 (2020), with the Greater Pittston area exceeding 48,000 residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (over 90%), with smaller populations of African American (2%), Asian (1.4%), Hispanic or Latino (5.3%), and other races. The median age in Pittston is 41.2 years, and about 21% of the population is under 18, while 18% is over 65. The city has a population density of roughly 4,465 people per square mile.
Economically, Pittston has a median household income of about $38,000, with approximately 18% of the population living below the poverty line. Historically, Pittston was known as a coal mining and manufacturing city, once dubbed the “Hard Coal Capital” due to its anthracite mining industry. Today, the economy is more diversified, with industries such as logistics, health care, retail, and services playing prominent roles. The city has invested heavily in revitalizing its downtown, leading to a resurgence of local businesses, restaurants, and cultural events.
Pittston is home to several schools operated by the Pittston Area School District, including Pittston Area High School. The city also features notable landmarks such as St. John the Evangelist Church, the Pittston Memorial Library, and Pittston Tomato Festival, an annual event celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. The city’s motto, “Progress, Tradition, Pride,” reflects its ongoing efforts to balance historic preservation with modern development.
Recreational facilities in Pittston include Riverfront Park, Jefferson Park, and the Pittston YMCA. In terms of public safety, the city is served by the Pittston City Police Department and Pittston City Fire Department. Emergency medical services are provided by Greater Pittston Regional Ambulance Association.
Pittston’s proximity to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) just 7 miles away, along with its location in the Wyoming Valley, makes it a convenient and attractive place to live and work. The city’s blend of history, revitalization, and community spirit continues to shape its unique character in northeastern Pennsylvania.
