The median income in the area has shown an overall positive trend, increasing from $39,017 in 2013 to $46,728 in 2022, representing a growth of about 19.8% over the decade. There was a peak in 2021 at $50,328 before a slight decline in 2022. The increasing diversity in the community correlates with the rising median income, suggesting that the influx of new residents, particularly from the Hispanic community, may be contributing to economic growth in the area.

The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, with a slight increase from 42,050 in 2013 to 42,946 in 2022. This stability, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, might indicate a gradual revitalization of the community.

The demographic shifts observed in this Wilkes-Barre zip code align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas. The growth of the Hispanic population reflects a pattern seen in many parts of the United States. The moderate income growth in this area is encouraging, especially considering the economic challenges faced by many similar-sized cities in the northeastern United States. However, the median income still falls below the national median, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021.

The stability in population, coupled with increasing diversity and rising incomes, suggests that this zip code may be experiencing a gradual urban renewal. This could be attracting a more diverse population while retaining long-term residents, creating a blend of established community members and newcomers.

Zip code 18702 in Wilkes-Barre is undergoing a transition from a predominantly white, low-diversity area to a more diverse community with a growing Hispanic population. This demographic shift, accompanied by moderate economic growth, positions the area as a "Transitional Community" that may continue to evolve in terms of both diversity and economic status in the coming years.