Apartments in Pittsburgh

Over the past 50 years, evolving from an industrial epicenter to a progressive town known for its culture and educational institutions. Its location at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers (which unite to form the Ohio River) made it an important colonial trade post, and the 19th century saw it expand into one of the United States’ most important industrial hubs, home to U.S. Steel and dozens of major producers of glass, iron, and machinery. Like many cities, the latter half of the 20th century saw large-scale industry and manufacturing moving overseas; unlike many cities, this transition was managed smoothly and efficiently, leaning on its solid base of world-class cultural institutions and highly ranked universities to remake itself as a cultural hub friendly to technology and the arts.

With its factories converted to lofts and its manufacturing plants remade into open-plan tech offices, makes this a vibrant, affordable alternative to other large East Coast cities. Its dining is sophisticated, its sports teams beloved (go Steelers!), and its universities — Carnegie Mellon, Pitt, and others — are some of the best in the nation. And it’s not just yinzers (that’s Pittsburgh-ese for “Pittsburgh-native”) who know it: Over the past few years, The Economist has repeatedly rated this one of the most livable cities in the United States.

When to Search

Like other towns with large universities, many rentals — especially near Pitt and Carnegie Mellon — adhere to academic schedules. In areas like Oakland or Shadyside, it’s a good idea to begin looking for an August rental in the spring. This is a large city, though, and much of it is residential. The farther from the center you look, the more open the market gets.

Staying in the Know

With plenty of neighborhoods to choose from, the average commute time for most residents is 20 minutes, and public transportation is widely accessible. So whatever your preference — sleek apartment high-rise or quiet, residential street — you’ll be able to find a new home to fit your needs.

Life in Pittsburgh