Quick answer
Pittsburgh has 7 notable neighborhoods. Median 1BR rent is $1,280/mo citywide. Top picks: Squirrel Hill, Lawrenceville, Shadyside.
Neighborhood Guide · 2026
Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh
7 areas ranked by vibe, walkability, and affordability. Median 1BR rent: $1,280/mo. State income tax: 3.07%.
All 7 Neighborhoods
Squirrel Hill
Jewish community, walkable, excellent restaurants, CMU adjacent, safest neighborhood; 1BR $1,200–1,600
Lawrenceville
Breweries, galleries, converted industrial, most gentrified and creative; 1BR $1,300–1,700
Shadyside
Upscale, walkable Walnut Street, boutique shopping, Pitt adjacent; 1BR $1,300–1,700
Oakland
University district, Pitt and CMU campuses, dense, student energy; 1BR $1,100–1,500
East Liberty / Friendship
Gentrifying, Google and Uber offices nearby, cafes and restaurants; 1BR $1,100–1,500
South Side (East Carson St)
Bars and nightlife, working-class roots, young crowd, Mount Washington views; 1BR $1,000–1,400
Mount Washington / Grandview
Panoramic downtown views, residential, incline access, quiet; 1BR $1,000–1,400
Pittsburgh at a Glance
Median 1BR
$1,280
Median home
$225K
Walk score
63/100
State tax
3.07%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh's top neighborhoods include Squirrel Hill, Lawrenceville, Shadyside. Jewish community, walkable, excellent restaurants, CMU adjacent, safest neighborhood; 1BR $1,200–1,600
What is the safest neighborhood in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh safety varies by area. For up-to-date crime data by neighborhood, check the Pittsburgh police department's public crime map. Generally, established residential areas with lower vacancy rates tend to have lower crime rates.
How much does it cost to rent in Pittsburgh?
City-wide median 1BR rent in Pittsburgh is $1,280/mo, 2BR is $1,580/mo. Prices vary by neighborhood — central and trendy areas run above the median, outer residential areas below.