The economic landscape of South Wilkes-Barre has shown correlations with its demographic shifts. The median income fluctuated over the decade, reaching its lowest point of $31,195 in 2017, coinciding with the community's transition towards greater diversity. There was a recovery in income levels from 2018 onwards, with the median income peaking at $51,872 in 2021 before decreasing to $45,666 in 2022.

This economic recovery parallels the increasing diversity in the neighborhood, suggesting that the influx of new residents, particularly from the Hispanic community, may have contributed to economic revitalization. The population has shown an overall increasing trend, growing from 7,795 in 2013 to 8,869 in 2022, indicating that the neighborhood has become more attractive to new residents despite initial economic challenges.

The demographic shifts observed in South Wilkes-Barre align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The growth of the Hispanic population reflects a pattern seen in many Northeastern cities as they transition from predominantly white communities to more diverse urban centers.

The economic trajectory of South Wilkes-Barre, with its recent upward trend in median income, is noteworthy, especially considering the challenges faced by many post-industrial towns in Pennsylvania. This economic resilience, coupled with increasing diversity, suggests that South Wilkes-Barre may be successfully navigating the transition from its historical reliance on coal mining to a more diverse economic base.

South Wilkes-Barre exemplifies a community in transition, both demographically and economically. The shift from a low-diversity area to a majority-minority neighborhood, accompanied by recent economic improvements, presents both challenges and opportunities for community development and integration. This transformation may serve as a case study for other post-industrial towns seeking to revitalize their communities through increased diversity and economic adaptation.