Apartments for Rent in Pittsburgh, PA - 547 Rentals available

Renter's Guide to Pittsburgh

Known as Steel City, Pittsburgh is widely known for its manufacturing of steel, glass, aluminum and ships, as well as its famous skyscrapers and iconic urban setting.

Pittsburgh was ranked as one of the “eleven most livable cities in the world,” and is also the second largest city in the state of Pennsylvania.

Larger than most people think, Pittsburgh is similar in size to San Francisco, California, and is about a third of the size of Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania.

Located in the western part of the state near the Great Lakes, Pittsburgh is a five-hour drive from Philadelphia, and four hours from the city of Allentown.

The average annual high temperature in Pittsburgh is 61.4°F, and the low is 42.6°F, with a moderate amount of precipitation scattered evenly throughout the year. Pittsburgh has hot, humid summers from the end of May through early September, and cold winters from early December through early March.

Cost of Living in Pittsburgh, PA

One of the most popular means of transportation in Pittsburgh is the bus system, which has a standard fare of $2.50 per adult. This bus system is very flexible, with seasonal unlimited passes and free rides for young children.

Another popular method of transportation is the subway system, which is both affordable and efficient. Additionally, taxicab services are available for a flat rate of $2.25 and $1.75 for each additional mile. The commute is not too bad with an average commute time of 25 minutes as of 2016.

Dining in Pittsburgh can be very affordable and a single meal goes for $14 at an inexpensive restaurant. A full three-course meal for two is roughly $50 at a mid-range restaurant, and cappuccinos cost $3.40 a cup on average.

Average monthly utility costs in Pittsburgh are $172.40, which is slightly higher than the national average of $147.

Living in Pittsburgh

If you are thinking about moving to Steel City, it is important to consider the pros and cons of living in Pittsburgh. The pros of living in Pittsburgh include its relative affordability, friendly atmosphere, vibrant and active sports community, and four beautiful seasons. The cons include the escalating cost of living, as well as the occasionally stalling traffic and limited parking at times.

Additionally, Pittsburgh used to have very limited diversity, however, minority numbers have been increasing in recent years and are expected to continue to do so.

Living in Pittsburgh is characterized by constant activity and notable developments in technology and the arts that are directly accessible to its citizens. Life in Pittsburgh is shaped by friendly, community-minded individuals often bonded by a strong affection for the local sports teams.

Things to do in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is filled with numerous attractions and destinations that keep the entire family entertained. Outdoor activities in Pittsburgh include the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, featuring seasonal flower shows in a Victorian greenhouse.

Additionally, Frick Park is just one of the many family-friendly parks in the city of Pittsburgh—this park is the largest and youngest in the city and boasts tennis courts, baseball fields, a dog park, and a bowling green.

Pittsburgh is very focused on the arts, and is home to the famous Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Heinz Center for Performing Arts, which attract musicians and listeners from all over the country.

Two popular museums include the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, known for its hall of dinosaurs, and the Carnegie Museum of Art which features contemporary works, both perfect even for a date. Visiting the Andy Warhol museum is also one of the great things to do in Pittsburgh on a day off.

One of the most popular family attractions in Pittsburgh is the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. The polar bears and leopards are the children’s favorites, but the shark exhibit is also among the most exciting Pittsburgh attractions for kids and the entire family.

Pittsburgh also has many unique annual events like the wine festival, restaurant week, and Earth Day festival. Free things to do in the city include many of the parks, walking tours, and hiking on the famous Mount Washington.

Culture is hugely focused on the renowned sports teams in the city, namely the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins, with many games and sporting events locally performed in Pittsburgh.

Employment and Economy

Pittsburgh is known for being the center of the steel industry in America, although today mills are not operated inside the city. However, the company U.S. Steel still bases its corporate office out of Pittsburgh, as do other major companies such as PNC Financial Bank, PPG, and HJ Heinz.

Pittsburgh is renowned in the field of medicine and healthcare, and has repeatedly been noted for having excellent job opportunities and the potential for job growth and development. Pittsburgh is also known for its quality banking and developments in technology, often related to healthcare, and its higher education programs due to several outstanding universities located within the city.

Top Colleges in Pittsburgh

Many excellent and well-known colleges are seated in Pittsburgh, including the University of Pittsburgh, known for its school of medicine and education, as well as Carnegie Mellon University and Duquesne University. These teams and universities are essential to the culture and community of Pittsburgh.

Tips for Renting in Pittsburgh

Before moving to Pittsburgh, consider its housing options carefully. Renting in Pittsburgh requires a security deposit most of the time, and landlords need to give at least 30 days’ notice before terminating the lease.

Tenants have the right not to pay their rent if their apartment is declared uninhabitable. The Fair Housing Act protects against discrimination, and adequate accommodation is provided for people with disabilities.

When moving to Pittsburgh, focus on exploring the excellent and affordable healthcare, friendly neighborhoods, quality in the arts, and outstanding job opportunities that will benefit the entire family.