A view of the highway interchange leading from Clarks Summit toward Scranton.

The Complete Guide to Commuting from Clarks Summit, PA to Scranton

Local Living
June 19, 2026•3 min read

For many professionals, the dream is to live in the quiet, tree-lined streets of the Abingtons while working in the bustling "Electric City." Commuting from Clarks Summit, PA to Scranton is a daily reality for thousands of residents. Fortunately, the proximity between these two locations makes for one of the most manageable and efficient commutes in the region. Whether you are headed to the University of Scranton, Geisinger Community Medical Center, or a downtown law firm, knowing the best routes can save you time and stress.

The Short Answer: How Long is the Commute?

The commute from Clarks Summit, PA to Scranton typically takes between 10 to 15 minutes. The distance is approximately 7 to 8 miles, primarily connected via Interstate 81 South or US-11 South (Northern Boulevard). Even during peak morning hours (7:30 AM – 8:30 AM), the drive remains relatively smooth compared to major metropolitan areas, making Clarks Summit an ideal "bedroom community" for Scranton-based workers.

Detailed Explanation: Your Route Options

There are two primary ways to navigate the trip from Clarks Summit, PA to the heart of Scranton:

  1. Interstate 81 South: This is the fastest route for most. By jumping on I-81 at the Clarks Summit interchange, you can reach the Central Scranton Expressway in minutes. It’s ideal for those working near the downtown business district or the hospitals.

  2. Routes 11 & 6 (The Notch): For a more scenic drive that avoids the highway, many locals take Northern Boulevard down through "The Notch." This leads directly into the North Scranton neighborhood and offers a steady flow of traffic with several local businesses along the way.

According to Sunita Arora, many homebuyers specifically look for properties in South Abington because it provides even quicker access to these main arteries, shaving precious minutes off the morning drive.

Local Market Insight: The "Commuter Corridor"

The ease of this commute significantly impacts property values in Clarks Summit, PA. Real estate along the "commuter corridor" tends to move quickly. Sunita Arora has noted that the ability to live in a suburban environment with a high-performing school district while maintaining a sub-15-minute commute to a major employment hub is a primary driver for the Clarks Summit housing market.

This accessibility has also made Clarks Summit, PA a favorite for healthcare professionals and educators who need to be close to the regional hubs but prefer the tranquility of the Abingtons for their personal lives.

Common Mistakes or Tips for Commuters

  • Watch the Weather: During PA winters, "The Notch" and I-81 can become slick. Clarks Summit residents know that an extra 10 minutes of buffer time is essential on snowy mornings.

  • Use the "Back Roads": For those headed to the West Side of Scranton, taking Winola Road can sometimes bypass highway congestion.

  • Rideshare Availability: Uber and Lyft are increasingly available in Clarks Summit, PA, offering a stress-free alternative for those who prefer not to drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there public transportation from Clarks Summit to Scranton? While most residents drive, there are limited bus services provided by COLTS (County of Lackawanna Transit System) that connect the Abingtons to the Scranton Intermodal Center.

Is there a lot of traffic between Clarks Summit and Scranton? Traffic is generally light to moderate. The most "congestion" occurs at the merge of I-81 and the PA Turnpike, but it rarely adds more than 5-10 minutes to the total trip.

What is the best neighborhood for commuters in Clarks Summit? South Abington Township is often considered the most convenient for commuters due to its immediate proximity to I-81 and Route 11.

Conclusion

The short, easy commute is one of the biggest "selling points" of living in the Abingtons. You truly get the best of both worlds: a peaceful home life and a productive career just minutes away.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Clarks Summit, PA, reach out to Sunita Arora for expert guidance and a clear strategy.

Living in Clarks Summit PAI-81 Pennsylvania TrafficSunita Arora Real Estate Agent
Sunita Arora

Sunita Arora

Sunita Arora is the Broker/Owner of ERA One Source Realty, Northeastern Pennsylvania's premier regional real estate company. With over thirty years of experience in the real estate industry, Sunita is one of the few Brokers in the area who remains actively involved in day-to-day sales and listings. Sunita's philosophy is simple yet profound: always do the right thing. She firmly believes that if you start by doing the right thing, there will never be a reason to worry.

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