Areas and suburbs in Pittsburgh

The best places to live in Pittsburgh

With such a wide variety of areas and suburbs in Pittsburgh, you'll have loads of options when it comes to deciding which neighbourhood suits you best. There's something for everyone – from buzzing inner-city areas to tranquil, family-friendly suburbs.

Below are some options worth considering.

City living in Pittsburgh

Bloomfield

Affectionately known as the 'Little Italy of Pittsburgh', Bloomfield sits about three miles from Downtown and remains popular among students and young professionals. Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh are both roughly one mile (1.6km) south, while the downtown area is just a 15-minute drive away. Transport links are reliable, and the area is home to numerous authentic Italian restaurants and cafés that reflect its strong Italian-American heritage dating back to settlers from the Abruzzi region.

Lawrenceville

Widely considered Pittsburgh's hippest neighbourhood, Lawrenceville has transformed dramatically over the past decade from an overlooked area into one of the city's most desirable locations. Its trendy industrial aesthetic, converted warehouse buildings, and thriving arts scene draw young professionals and creatives. New arrivals moving to Lawrenceville will find they have some of Pittsburgh’s best nightlife, craft breweries, and boutique shopping right on their doorstep.

Regent Square

Regent Square offers a distinctive small-town atmosphere within the city limits, making it particularly appealing to young professionals seeking a community feel. This charming tree-lined neighbourhood spans four municipalities – Pittsburgh, Edgewood, Swissvale, and Wilkinsburg – and sits adjacent to Frick Park. The area features an active business district along Braddock Avenue and provides easy access to the park's recreational facilities, including dog areas, hiking trails, and green spaces.

Strip District

The Strip District is a hip and trendy neighbourhood lined with converted warehouses, and it has developed into a thriving hub for innovation and creativity, with many tech startups and creative businesses establishing operations here. This has fuelled a booming residential market. You'll find yourself within walking distance of cultural attractions like the Heinz History Center, as well as speciality shopping and food experiences.

Public Transport in Pittsburgh

Family-friendly suburbs in Pittsburgh

Mount Washington

Recognised as Pittsburgh's most scenic neighbourhood, Mount Washington delivers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline that USA Today named among America's top 10 most beautiful places. The area offers extensive green spaces through Emerald View Park, a 257-acre (104-hectare) network connecting multiple parks and providing hiking trails, dog parks, and recreational facilities. Housing options range from restored early 1900s homes to modern family residences, with the neighbourhood maintaining excellent walkability and access to both historic inclines for easy downtown commutes.

Squirrel Hill

With over 1,100 acres (445 hectares) of parkland, including the renowned Schenley Park, and a reputation as one of Pittsburgh's most culturally diverse areas, Squirrel Hill remains ideal for families. The neighbourhood benefits from highly rated schools within the Pittsburgh Public School District and maintains a strong sense of community. Families looking for outstanding educational opportunities and a diverse cultural experience will find a warm and inviting atmosphere in this lush area, which offers a well-balanced blend of Jewish heritage and international influences.

Aspinwall

This compact 0.4-square-mile (1km²) borough in Allegheny County packs considerable appeal for families, offering a walkable suburban lifestyle with independent businesses, speciality shops, and local amenities. New arrivals will enjoy the neighbourhood's tree-lined streets, Victorian-era homes, and proximity to the Allegheny River. Aspinwall takes advantage of the exceptional Fox Chapel Area School District and maintains strong community connections through regular events and a pedestrian-friendly business district.

Edgeworth

Consistently ranked among Pittsburgh's most affluent suburbs, Edgeworth showcases beautiful 19th-century Victorian homes along tree-lined streets with exceptional walkability. The borough serves families through the highly rated Quaker Valley School District, and children can safely walk to school thanks to crossing guards and well-maintained pavements. The strong sense of community and excellent safety record make this an attractive option for families seeking a prestigious suburban setting with easy access to Pittsburgh.

Schools in Pittsburgh