East Stroudsburg Borough is a vibrant, historically rooted municipality in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Pocono Mountains and directly adjacent to its sister borough, Stroudsburg. Though often paired with Stroudsburg in regional identity, East Stroudsburg has its own distinct character—shaped by education, transportation, and a rich colonial past.
🏘️ Borough Snapshot
Founded: Originally settled in 1737 as Dansbury, renamed East Stroudsburg in 1856 with the arrival of the railroad
Area: ~2.86 square miles (7.41 km²)
Population: ~9,847 (2020 Census)
Elevation: ~466 feet (142 m)
ZIP Codes: 18301–18302
School District: East Stroudsburg Area School District
🏛️ Civic & Cultural Features
East Stroudsburg University (ESU): A major regional institution that fuels the borough’s youthful energy, cultural diversity, and economic activity
Historic Downtown: Lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, including restored Victorian buildings and the former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad station
Community Events: Includes “Music on Mondays,” senior expos, and seasonal festivals hosted by the borough and local organizations
🚉 Transportation & Infrastructure
Rail Legacy: The borough’s growth was catalyzed by the 1856 arrival of the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad
Highways: Served by Route 209 and close to I-80, making it a key transit point between New York City and the Poconos
Walkability: Compact layout with pedestrian-friendly streets and public parks
🏞️ Regional Identity
East Stroudsburg is often seen as the educational and cultural anchor of Monroe County. Its blend of historic charm, university life, and proximity to outdoor recreation makes it a dynamic hub for both residents and visitors. The borough’s evolution—from colonial outpost to railroad town to college borough—reflects the layered history of the Pocono region.
Short Term Rental Information
The Borough of East Stroudsburg enacted a short term rental ordinance in 2021. The ordinance requires licensing and a list of requirements including the use of a private trash hauler. Zoning regulations limit the licenses to Commercial and Industrial areas, properties in residential areas will need a variance. Details can be found in the East Stroudsburg STR Ordinance. See permit application below.
Tis the season for many to sadly abandon their cats and dogs.
As the holidays come to a close, local shelters are feeling the burden of families not ready for their four legged present. Many of those unwanted pets are dumped outside.
But one animal shelter in Monroe County has a program to help make room for those cats and dogs.