Cities and Towns in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania
Founded in 1842, Wyoming County is one of 67 counties in the state of Pennsylvania. Historically, Wyoming County was formed from parts of Luzerne County. The city of Tunkhannock is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Wyoming County has a population of 26,034 and area of 405 square miles (1,049 km²).
List of all cities in Wyoming County, PA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Center Moreland, PA | 18657 | 570 |
Factoryville, PA | 18419 | 570 |
Falls, PA | 18615 | 570 |
Laceyville, PA | 18623 | 570 |
Lake Winola, PA | 18625 | 570 |
Mehoopany, PA | 18629 | 570 |
Meshoppen, PA | 18630 | 570 |
Nicholson, PA | 18446 | 570 |
Noxen, PA | 18636 | 570 |
Tunkhannock, PA | 18657 | 570 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania
1. Tunkhannock Borough
Location and History
Tunkhannock Borough, the largest community in Wyoming County, is located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, approximately 30 miles southwest of Scranton. The borough is situated along the Tunkhannock Creek, which contributed to its early development as a center for agriculture and industry. Tunkhannock was originally settled in the late 18th century, and it became a bustling town during the 19th century due to the construction of the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, which made it an important transportation hub. The town’s name is derived from the Lenape Native American language, believed to mean “forks of the stream.” Throughout the 20th century, Tunkhannock transitioned from a predominantly industrial town to a residential and commercial center. Despite this, the town has retained its historic charm, with many buildings from the 19th century still standing in its downtown area. Today, Tunkhannock is a charming small town with a focus on preserving its heritage while offering modern amenities for residents and visitors alike.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800
- Zip Codes: 18657
- Latitude: 41.5373° N
- Longitude: 76.1849° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tunkhannock is served by the Tunkhannock Area School District, which includes Tunkhannock Area High School, a well-regarded institution that serves the community’s educational needs. The borough is home to several notable landmarks, including the Tunkhannock Viaduct, also known as the “Gateway to the Endless Mountains,” a massive concrete bridge that spans the Tunkhannock Creek and is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering. The Dietrich Theater, a historic movie theater, is another popular landmark that has been renovated to serve as a cultural venue, hosting performances and films. Tunkhannock’s downtown area is rich in history and features a number of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The nearby Endless Mountains provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, contributing to the town’s appeal as a gateway to nature.
2. Meshoppen Borough
Location and History
Meshoppen Borough is located in the southern part of Wyoming County, nestled between the scenic Susquehanna River and the rolling hills of the Endless Mountains. Originally settled by Europeans in the late 18th century, Meshoppen grew as a small farming and logging community. The town’s name is derived from the Native American word “Meshoppen,” which means “place of the stream,” referencing the proximity of the town to the Meshoppen Creek. The town played a significant role in the timber industry during the 19th century, with lumber mills and sawmills being integral to its economy. Meshoppen’s economy diversified throughout the 20th century, transitioning to a more residential character while still maintaining its rural charm. The construction of the Lehigh Valley Railroad through the town helped it grow into a small transportation center. Today, Meshoppen remains a tight-knit community with a rural atmosphere, offering a quiet lifestyle but with access to larger towns and cities nearby.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Zip Codes: 18630
- Latitude: 41.5993° N
- Longitude: 76.1386° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Meshoppen is served by the Northeast Bradford School District, which provides educational opportunities for students in the area. The borough also benefits from its proximity to larger towns, allowing residents easy access to additional educational facilities. Meshoppen’s historic landmarks include the Meshoppen Creek Bridge, which has become an iconic structure in the town. The Meshoppen Historical Society maintains several archives related to the town’s history and offers educational programs for visitors. The nearby Susquehanna River provides recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Meshoppen Park is another important community space that offers a playground, walking trails, and picnic areas. Meshoppen’s rural location offers a peaceful setting with access to outdoor activities, making it a desirable spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a slower pace of life.
3. Nicholson Borough
Location and History
Nicholson Borough, located in the southwestern corner of Wyoming County, has a rich history shaped by its proximity to the Susquehanna River and its location along major transportation routes. Founded in the early 19th century, Nicholson grew as an industrial town with an emphasis on agriculture, logging, and coal mining. The town’s most significant historical event is its role as the site of the Nicholson Bridge, a massive iron bridge that was completed in 1907. The bridge spans the Susquehanna River and remains a vital part of Nicholson’s identity, both historically and economically. Nicholson has long been a center for transportation, as the Delaware and Hudson Canal and later the Lackawanna Railroad passed through the town, facilitating trade and commerce. Over time, Nicholson transitioned from a heavily industrialized community to a quieter, residential borough while maintaining its historical landmarks. Today, Nicholson is a popular destination for those interested in both its industrial heritage and scenic natural surroundings.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Zip Codes: 18446
- Latitude: 41.6395° N
- Longitude: 75.7906° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nicholson is served by the Lackawanna Trail School District, which includes Nicholson Elementary School and Lackawanna Trail Junior/Senior High School. The borough is home to the famous Nicholson Bridge, the longest and highest steel bridge in Pennsylvania when it was built, and a symbol of the town’s historical importance in transportation. The Nicholson Heritage Museum showcases the town’s history, offering insight into its industrial past and the lives of its residents. Nearby, the Lackawanna State Park offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Nicholson’s downtown area features a blend of historic buildings, local businesses, and small-town charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors and residents alike.
4. Laquin (Census Designated Place)
Location and History
Laquin, an unincorporated census-designated place in Wyoming County, is located in the northeastern part of the county. The area was once a thriving company town during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily due to the timber industry. Laquin was originally established as a logging town, and at its peak, it was home to a sawmill and a population of several hundred people. However, as the timber resources in the region were exhausted, the town began to decline, and by the mid-20th century, Laquin became a ghost town. Despite its small size, Laquin’s history is an important part of Wyoming County’s development, and remnants of its past, such as old buildings and the mill site, still exist. Today, the area is a quiet, rural community with a few scattered homes, and it is mostly known for its historical significance and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Less than 100
- Zip Codes: 18630
- Latitude: 41.5040° N
- Longitude: 76.1648° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Being a small, rural area, Laquin does not have its own school district or major educational facilities. Students typically attend schools in neighboring communities such as Tunkhannock or Meshoppen. One of the notable landmarks in Laquin is the old sawmill site, which offers insight into the town’s history as a timber town. The natural surroundings, including nearby forests and streams, provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. While Laquin no longer serves as a bustling town, it remains a fascinating area for history enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the past and the beauty of Wyoming County’s rural landscape.
5. West Wyoming Borough
Location and History
West Wyoming Borough is a small residential community located in the western part of Wyoming County. It was incorporated in 1891 and quickly grew due to the expansion of the railroad and the region’s agricultural development. West Wyoming’s history is largely tied to the coal and agricultural industries, with local farms and coal mines contributing to the borough’s economy in the early 20th century. As industry declined in the latter half of the century, West Wyoming shifted toward becoming a quiet residential area. It retains a small-town atmosphere while being close enough to larger towns and cities for residents to access more urban amenities. Today, West Wyoming is a peaceful suburban community with a strong sense of local pride and a deep connection to its past.
Area, Population, and Demographics
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- Zip Codes: 18644
- Latitude: 41.5759° N
- Longitude: 75.9339° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Wyoming is served by the Wyoming Area School District, which includes Wyoming Area High School, providing quality education to students in the borough. The town is also known for its recreational facilities, such as the West Wyoming Park, which offers green space for outdoor activities. While West Wyoming does not have many major landmarks, its proximity to the larger town of West Pittston gives it easy access to regional cultural events and historical sites. The community maintains its residential charm with tree-lined streets, small businesses, and close-knit neighborhoods. It’s a quiet place to live, with convenient access to larger regional amenities while retaining its unique local character.