Welcome to the Steel City! Known for its 446 bridges, passionate sports culture, and stunning skyline, Pittsburgh is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm. From the historic streets of the North Side to the academic hubs in the East End, there's a corner of this city for everyone.
If you’re considering a move to Pittsburgh, narrowing down where to live can be tricky. We’ve done the research to compile a list of the best places to rent in Pittsburgh based on the following factors:
- Rental availability
- Average rent relative to other neighborhoods in the city
- Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centers, or major parks
- Niche.com’s neighborhood report cards
The five best neighborhoods in Pittsburgh for renters are:
Allegheny Center
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,380/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Allegheny Center: $1,317/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Allegheny Center: 738 square feet
Why Allegheny Center is good for renters
Located on the historic North Side, Allegheny Center offers connectivity and cultural richness. Renters here are just steps away from major attractions like the National Aviary, PNC Park, and Acrisure Stadium, making it perfect for sports fans. The neighborhood features walkability to lush green spaces like Allegheny Commons Park while being a quick commute across the river to Downtown.
Keep in mind
Because it's home to major stadiums and museums, traffic and parking can become challenging on game days or during large events.
Bloomfield
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,380/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Bloomfield: $1,439/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Bloomfield: 684 square feet
Why Bloomfield is good for renters
Often called "Pittsburgh’s Little Italy," Bloomfield has evolved into a diverse community known for its Liberty Avenue business district. Renters love the neighborhood's authentic feel, filled with local bakeries, classic diners, and a growing number of trendy eateries. It’s highly walkable and sits just a few miles east of Downtown Pittsburgh, offering great access to the city without being in the middle of the action.
Keep in mind
Parking is primarily on-street and can be tight, especially near the main Liberty Avenue corridor.
North Oakland
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,380/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in North Oakland: $1,517/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in North Oakland: 667 square feet
Why North Oakland is good for renters
North Oakland is the intellectual heart of the city, bordering the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. This neighborhood offers a dynamic energy with easy access to the Carnegie Museums and the expansive Schenley Park. It’s an ideal spot for renters who want to be close to educational and medical hubs while enjoying a walkable environment with excellent public transit options.
Keep in mind
Due to the proximity to major universities and hospitals, the rental market here moves very quickly, especially leading up to the start of academic semesters. Rentals here are also priced at a premium due to the neighborhood’s central location.
Squirrel Hill North
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,380/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Squirrel Hill North: $1,242/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Squirrel Hill North: 622 square feet
Why Squirrel Hill North is good for renters
Squirrel Hill North is characterized by its beautiful, tree-lined residential streets and substantial historic homes. Renters enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the bustling Forbes and Murray Avenue shopping districts. The neighborhood is close to Carnegie Mellon University, Schenley Park, and Frick Park, offering a sophisticated, community-focused vibe with plenty of green space.
Keep in mind
Most parking is on-street and can be hard to come by, especially when the nearby colleges are in session.
Squirrel Hill South
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,380/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Squirrel Hill South: $1,157/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Squirrel Hill South: 691 square feet
Why Squirrel Hill South is good for renters
Sandwiched between Schenley Park and Frick Park, Squirrel Hill South offers the quintessential Pittsburgh neighborhood experience. With a commercial strip along Murray Avenue, renters have immediate access to an incredible array of international cuisine and independent shops. The neighborhood combines a strong sense of community with urban amenities, making it a consistent favorite for long-term residents.
Keep in mind
While public transit is readily available, commuting by car to Downtown Pittsburgh can take longer during rush hour due to the tunnels and bridges.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Pittsburgh has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan.
Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.
Apartment rent and cost of living data provided by CoStar Group’s December 2025 reports.
FAQs
Is Pittsburgh a good place to live?
Yes, Pittsburgh is a good place to live for renters who appreciate a city with deep history, distinct seasons, and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. It offers big-city cultural amenities—like world-class museums and professional sports—alongside affordable living and tight-knit communities.
Is Pittsburgh an expensive place to live?
The cost of living in Pittsburgh is 1.9% lower than the national average, making it more affordable than many other big cities. On average, rentals, utilities, and transportation in Pittsburgh cost more than the national average, but groceries, healthcare, and goods and services are all less expensive than the national average.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable neighborhoods to start your search.
What's the average rent in Pittsburgh?
The average rent in Pittsburgh is $1,380/month, as of December 2025. This is 15% lower than the national average rent of $1,632/month.
What salary do you need to live in Pittsburgh?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Pittsburgh would be around $76,000 before tax.
