Riverside, Wilkes-Barre, PA

Riverside Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Riverside is a historic, tight-knit neighborhood located on the eastern bank of the Susquehanna River in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Its name is a direct reflection of its geography, as the community is nestled along the riverfront, offering scenic views and a distinct sense of place. Historically, Riverside was a bustling hub for the coal and railroad industries, with many residents working in nearby mines or for the Lehigh Valley Railroad. This industrial past is still visible in the neighborhood's sturdy, early-20th century housing stock and its grid-like street layout.

Today, Riverside maintains a strong, proud identity as a residential enclave within the city. It is bordered roughly by the Susquehanna River to the west, the neighborhood of Miners Mills to the north, the Cross Valley Expressway (PA 309) to the east, and the Carey Avenue bridge leading to downtown Wilkes-Barre to the south. The neighborhood is characterized by its quiet, tree-lined streets, well-kept homes, and active community organizations, fostering a small-town feel within the urban setting.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Riverside is predominantly composed of classic American four-squares, cozy bungalows, and durable two-story duplexes, many built from the 1910s through the 1940s. These homes often feature spacious front porches, hardwood floors, and solid construction, appealing to those seeking character and value. A smaller number of post-war single-family homes and modern apartment buildings can also be found, particularly along main thoroughfares.

Real estate in Riverside is considered affordable compared to national averages, with median home prices typically ranging from the low $100,000s to the mid-$200,000s, depending on size, condition, and riverfront proximity. The neighborhood has a mix of homeownership and rental properties, with a strong leaning toward owner-occupied residences. Recent trends show a stable market, with the area's affordability and community spirit attracting first-time homebuyers and long-term residents alike.

Schools & Education

Riverside is served by the Wilkes-Barre Area School District. Students typically attend Daniel J. Flood Elementary School, which is located within the neighborhood, fostering a convenient and community-oriented educational foundation. For secondary education, students move on to the district's consolidated high school, Wilkes-Barre Area High School, located in nearby Plains.

Families in Riverside also have access to several nearby private and parochial school options, including Holy Redeemer High School and St. Nicholas/St. Mary’s Elementary School. For higher education, the campus of King’s College is just a short drive away in downtown Wilkes-Barre, and Luzerne County Community College has a campus in nearby Nanticoke, providing accessible pathways to advanced degrees and vocational training.

Parks & Recreation

The crown jewel of Riverside's recreational space is the River Common, a beautiful, expansive park system along the Susquehanna River levee. This park features walking and biking trails, amphitheaters, gardens, and direct access to the Luzerne County Levee Trail system, which runs for miles along the river. It is a central gathering place for community events, concerts, and daily exercise with stunning views of the river and downtown.

Within the neighborhood itself, residents enjoy the Riverside Drive-In Park, a smaller, traditional park with playground equipment, picnic areas, and sports fields. The neighborhood's proximity to the river also supports activities like fishing and kayaking. Furthermore, the nearby Kirby Park, just across the Market Street Bridge, offers additional amenities including tennis courts, more extensive sports fields, and wooded walking paths.

Local Dining & Shopping

Riverside supports a collection of long-standing, beloved local businesses that cater to daily needs. Dining options are classic and community-focused, featuring staples like Bart & Urby's, a popular neighborhood bar and restaurant known for its pizza and casual fare. The neighborhood also has several smaller pizzerias, diners, and family-owned establishments that serve as social hubs for residents.

For shopping, Riverside is home to a mix of small retail shops and essential services along its main arteries like Main Street and Mundy Street. While not a major commercial hub, residents find convenience in local pharmacies, hardware stores, and salons. For larger grocery shopping and big-box retailers, residents typically take a short drive to the Wilkes-Barre Township commercial corridor or to stores in nearby Plains.

Who Lives Here

Riverside is home to a diverse mix of multi-generational families, young professionals, and retirees, many of whom have deep roots in the community. It is known for its strong sense of neighborliness and civic pride, with active community groups like the Riverside Neighborhood Association working to improve quality of life and organize local events. The population is a blend of long-time residents who have lived here for decades and newer arrivals drawn by the affordable housing and quiet streets.

The community vibe is one of resilience and camaraderie. Residents are drawn to Riverside for its tangible history, its scenic riverfront, and its reputation as a stable, friendly place to raise a family or put down roots. It appeals to those who value a close-knit urban neighborhood where people know their neighbors, support local businesses, and actively participate in maintaining the area's charm and vitality.

Riverside Market Data

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