Northeastern Pennsylvania & the Poconos

Carbondale, Pennsylvania

City

A pioneer anthracite city

Carbondale is a city in northern Lackawanna County about 20 miles northeast of Scranton. It was one of the first anthracite mining cities in the United States and retains a compact downtown of 19th-century buildings along Main Street.

History & Local Character

Founded in 1822 and incorporated as a city in 1851, Carbondale was home to the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company's gravity railroad, which carried coal to the Hudson River.

Housing & Real Estate

Carbondale offers rowhouses and older singles at very low prices, with newer development outside the city.

Restaurants & Shopping

Main Street hosts pizzerias, diners and family restaurants in historic storefronts.

Schools & Education

Carbondale Area School District serves the city.

Parks & Recreation

The D&H Rail-Trail, Merli-Sarnoski Park and nearby Elk Mountain provide recreation.

Transportation & Accessibility

Route 6, Route 106 and the turnpike serve Carbondale, with COLTS bus service.

Local Businesses

Small manufacturers, contractors and downtown retailers make up the local economy.

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Nearby Attractions

  • D&H Rail-Trail
  • Merli-Sarnoski Park
  • Elk Mountain Ski Resort
  • Pioneer City history

Advantages & Considerations

Advantages

  • Extremely affordable housing
  • Trail and ski access
  • Historic downtown
  • Route 6 access

Considerations

  • Population decline
  • Limited retail and services
  • Aging infrastructure

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Carbondale called the Pioneer City?

Carbondale was one of the first cities built on anthracite coal mining and the D&H gravity railroad, earning it the nickname Pioneer City.

What county is Carbondale in?

Carbondale is a city in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania.

More in Lackawanna County

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