When people think of Pittsburgh, they often picture its iconic skyline, bridges, and sports teams, but the true essence of living in Pittsburgh extends beyond the city center. The suburbs of Pittsburgh offer diverse residential areas that provide a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still allowing easy access to the city’s thriving cultural scene, job market, and outdoor recreation. These Pittsburgh suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each with its own distinct character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Pittsburgh suburbs—from the charming historic towns to the rapidly growing residential hubs—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Pittsburgh or curious about the different Pittsburgh neighborhoods, let’s discover the best places in the Pittsburgh metro area to call home.
Cost of living in Pittsburgh
Before diving into Pittsburgh’s top suburbs, it’s important to look at the city’s cost of living. Pittsburgh is known for being relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. The overall cost of living in Pittsburgh is about 2% lower than the national average, with housing playing a key role. The median sale price for a home in Pittsburgh is around $273,500, significantly below the national median of $432,657. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Pittsburgh averages about $1,607 per month.
While Pittsburgh offers affordable housing, many of its surrounding suburbs provide additional value with larger homes, quieter neighborhoods, and a more peaceful environment. Now, let’s explore the most popular suburbs in Pittsburgh.
If you’re looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guide on the 13 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh to Rent in 2024.
1. Mount Lebanon
Known for: Historic charm, walkable neighborhoods, and cultural amenities
Mount Lebanon is one of Pittsburgh’s most popular and established suburbs, located just six miles south of downtown. Known for its historic charm and walkable streets, Mount Lebanon is ideal for those who enjoy tree-lined neighborhoods with a mix of older homes and newer developments. The suburb boasts a vibrant business district, filled with local shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy for residents to find entertainment and necessities without leaving the neighborhood.
Mount Lebanon’s proximity to downtown Pittsburgh is also a major draw, especially for those who commute. Public transportation options, including the Pittsburgh Light Rail (commonly known as “The T”), make getting into the city convenient. Additionally, the suburb is home to various parks and recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a public golf course.
Population: 33,000
Median home sale price: $405,000
Mount Lebanon transportation scores: Walk Score 74, Bike Score 24
Apartments for rent in Mount Lebanon, PA | Houses for rent in Mount Lebanon, PA | Homes for sale in Mount Lebanon, PA
2. Cranberry Township
Known for: Rapid growth, diverse living options, and recreational amenities
Located about 20 miles north of Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the area. Known for its expansive residential developments, Cranberry Township offers a wide range of housing options, from apartments to spacious single-family homes. The suburb’s growing commercial and retail sectors provide residents with plenty of shopping and dining options, including the bustling Cranberry Mall.
Cranberry Township is also a hub for outdoor recreation, with numerous parks, walking trails, and sports facilities available to residents. The area’s emphasis on community living is evident through its well-maintained public spaces and frequent community events. Commuters will appreciate easy access to major highways like I-79, which connects Cranberry to downtown Pittsburgh in under 30 minutes.
Population: 33,000
Median home sale price: $450,500
Cranberry Township transportation scores: Walk Score 57, Bike Score 43
Apartments for rent in Cranberry Township, PA | Houses for rent in Cranberry Township, PA | Homes for sale in Cranberry Township, PA
3. Bethel Park
Known for: Strong community atmosphere, affordable housing, and outdoor activities
Bethel Park, located about 10 miles south of Pittsburgh, is a suburban favorite for those looking for affordable living with easy access to the city. Known for its community spirit and excellent public services, Bethel Park offers a mix of older homes and new developments, making it attractive to a variety of residents. The suburb is also home to South Hills Village, a popular shopping center with a wide range of retail stores and dining options.
One of the key draws of Bethel Park is its abundance of parks and outdoor spaces. Residents enjoy access to the Montour Trail, a scenic biking and hiking trail that runs through the area, as well as numerous parks and recreational centers. Bethel Park’s location on the Light Rail system also makes commuting into Pittsburgh a breeze for those working in the city.
Population: 33,000
Median home sale price: $290,000
Bethel Park transportation scores: Walk Score 31, Bike Score 16, Transit Score 30
Apartments for rent in Bethel Park, PA | Houses for rent in Bethel Park, PA | Homes for sale in Bethel Park, PA
4. Sewickley
Known for: Upscale living, historic architecture, and a charming downtown
Sewickley, located about 12 miles northwest of Pittsburgh, is one of the area’s most prestigious suburbs. Known for its upscale homes, historic architecture, and charming downtown district, Sewickley offers a picturesque suburban experience. The village-like atmosphere of downtown Sewickley features boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and art galleries, creating a vibrant cultural scene.
Residents of Sewickley enjoy scenic views of the Ohio River, along with access to numerous parks and outdoor spaces. The suburb is also home to some of the best private and public schools in the region, adding to its appeal for professionals. With its close proximity to Pittsburgh’s major job centers and its tranquil, high-end atmosphere, Sewickley is a top choice for those seeking a blend of suburban elegance and urban convenience.
Population: 3,900
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,400
Median home sale price: $532,500
Sewickley transportation scores: Walk Score 88, Bike Score 48
Apartments for rent in Sewickley, PA | Houses for rent in Sewickley, PA | Homes for sale in Sewickley, PA
5. Wexford
Known for: Peaceful living, new developments, and excellent parks
Wexford, located about 15 miles north of Pittsburgh, is another highly sought-after suburb known for its peaceful residential atmosphere and new housing developments. The area has seen significant growth in recent years, with new neighborhoods, commercial centers, and recreational facilities popping up to accommodate its growing population. Wexford offers a variety of housing options, from affordable townhomes to sprawling estates, making it a great place for those looking for diverse real estate choices.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Wexford’s parks, hiking trails, and proximity to North Park, one of the region’s largest and most popular parks. Wexford’s strategic location along major highways makes it an ideal suburb for commuters working in Pittsburgh’s northern job centers.
Population: 21,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,338
Median home sale price: $535,000
Wexford transportation scores: Walk Score 54, Bike Score 22
Apartments for rent in Wexford, PA | Houses for rent in Wexford, PA | Homes for sale in Wexford, PA
6. Fox Chapel
Known for: Scenic beauty, upscale homes, and proximity to outdoor recreation
Fox Chapel is one of the most exclusive suburbs in the Pittsburgh area, located about 10 miles northeast of downtown. Known for its expansive estates, large lots, and wooded surroundings, Fox Chapel offers a private, luxurious lifestyle. The suburb is adjacent to the Allegheny River and is home to several parks and outdoor spaces, including the Fox Chapel Golf Club and Hartwood Acres, a large estate park offering trails, gardens, and outdoor concerts.
Population: 5,400
Median home sale price: $1,462,500
Fox Chapel transportation scores: Walk Score 9, Bike Score 38
Apartments for rent in Fox Chapel, PA | Houses for rent in Fox Chapel, PA | Homes for sale in Fox Chapel, PA
7. Upper St. Clair
Known for: Top-rated schools, suburban living, and community-focused amenities
Upper St. Clair is located about 12 miles south of Pittsburgh and is known for its excellent public schools and community-oriented atmosphere. The suburb features a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to more upscale developments, making it a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful, suburban lifestyle. Upper St. Clair is home to several parks and recreational facilities, including a community recreation center and outdoor pools, offering plenty of activities for residents.
Population: 20,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,976
Median home sale price: $469,000
Upper St. Clair transportation scores: Walk Score 14, Bike Score 7
Apartments for rent in Upper St. Clair, PA | Houses for rent in Upper St. Clair, PA | Homes for sale in Upper St. Clair, PA
8. Robinson Township
Known for: Convenient location, shopping, and new developments
Robinson Township, located about 10 miles west of downtown Pittsburgh, is a rapidly growing suburb known for its accessibility and convenient amenities. The suburb is home to The Mall at Robinson and Settlers Ridge, two major shopping centers that offer a range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment. Robinson Township is also known for its newer housing developments, providing plenty of modern homes and townhouses. With easy access to highways like I-79 and I-376, it’s a great choice for those who want to stay close to Pittsburgh while enjoying suburban living.
Population: 14,000
Median home sale price: $230,000
Robinson Township transportation scores: Walk Score 18, Bike Score 26
Apartments for rent in Robinson Township, PA | Houses for rent in Robinson Township, PA | Homes for sale in Robinson Township, PA
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Pittsburgh area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of September 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.