To reach Scranton from Philadelphia (125 miles north), the fastest travel mode is driving via the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I-476 North) to I-81 North, taking 2 to 2.5 hours and costing $35–$50 in gas and tolls. Alternatively, intercity motorcoaches like Martz Trailways and Greyhound depart from Philadelphia 30th Street Station and Spring Garden Street, arriving at the Lackawanna Transit Center in 2 hours 50 minutes to 3.5 hours for $26–$65 one-way.

Taxis and on-demand rideshares cost $170–$250, while direct passenger rail connections remain in development under Amtrak’s regional expansion corridors.

🚗 Driving From Philadelphia to Scranton

Driving is the most direct and flexible travel method between Philadelphia and Scranton. The primary corridor begins on I-76 West out of Center City to join the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (Interstate 476 North). Follow I-476 through the Lehigh Valley and Pocono mountains to Exit 115, merging onto Interstate 81 North directly into downtown Scranton. The 125-mile road trip averages 2 to 2.5 hours in standard conditions.

Budget approximately $18–$25 for fuel along with variable electronic E-ZPass or Toll-by-Plate charges on the turnpike ($12–$22), making total one-way transit costs around $35 to $50.

Traveler Tip: Find top-rated hotels, historic downtown stays, and Pocono mountain resorts near Scranton with real-time discounts: Compare Scranton & Pennsylvania Hotel Deals Here.

🚌 Bus From Philadelphia to Scranton

Scheduled intercity buses provide an affordable alternative for travelers skipping the drive. Martz Trailways operates express and semi-express routes directly out of William H. Gray III 30th Street Station, reaching Scranton in roughly 2 hours and 50 minutes with tickets starting between $45 and $65. Greyhound and regional carriers also offer daily connections departing from Philadelphia’s regional bus stops to Scranton’s Lackawanna Transit Center, with off-peak fares starting as low as $26. Onboard amenities generally include complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining seating, and dedicated luggage allowances.

🚆 Train From Philadelphia to Scranton (Coming Soon)

Direct passenger rail between Philadelphia and Scranton does not currently operate, but restoration efforts are actively progressing through federal and state passenger rail corridor programs. Until direct service debuts, train travelers can take Amtrak from 30th Street Station to New York Penn Station or Newark Broad Street, transferring onto regional connecting motorcoaches. Future planned services spearheaded by PennDOT and Amtrak intend to re-establish regular passenger train trips linking northeast Pennsylvania directly with the Northeast Corridor, offering modern, low-carbon passenger rail connectivity.

🚖 Rideshare or Taxi

Hailing an on-demand rideshare via Uber or Lyft or booking a private regional car service provides direct curb-to-curb transportation without car rental logistics. Due to the 120-plus-mile highway distance, one-way standard rideshare fares range from $170 to $250 before driver gratuity, while premium black cars or pre-arranged private shuttle services command $300 or more. Because long-distance suburban trips depend on driver willingness to travel outside their regional territory, scheduling your trip in advance through the app is strongly advised.

Related Routes from Philadelphia:
How to Get to Valley Forge From Philadelphia

Travel Cost & Travel Time Summary

FAQs About How to Get to Scranton From Philadelphia [2026-2027 Guide]

How far is Scranton from Philadelphia?

The road distance between downtown Philadelphia and Scranton is approximately 120 to 125 miles traveling north along the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (Interstate 476) and Interstate 81. Under standard highway conditions without major weather delays, the drive takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Where does the bus drop off in Scranton?

Intercity bus lines such as Martz Trailways and Greyhound drop passengers off at the historic Lackawanna Transit Center, located at 44 Station Road in downtown Scranton. The facility serves as the county’s central public transit hub, making it easy to catch local COLTS buses, hail a taxi, or walk to nearby downtown hotels.

Are there tolls on the drive from Philadelphia to Scranton?

Yes, the most direct route uses the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I-476), which operates on an all-electronic tolling system. Drivers must pay using an active E-ZPass transponder or will receive a PA Turnpike Toll-by-Plate bill mailed to the vehicle’s registered address, with rates generally between $12 and $22 depending on payment method.