Apartments for Rent in Pittsburgh, PA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Are rents dropping in Pittsburgh?

  According to Apartment List’s most recent rental report, the overall average rent in Pittsburgh is $1,396 per month. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,217, while the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $1,482. Rents increased 1.6% last month and are up 3.3% compared to this time last year.

• Is Pittsburgh affordable?

  Yes—affordability is one of Pittsburgh’s strongest selling points. Renters gave the city an A for affordability in our latest Renter Satisfaction Survey. The median rent is $1,371, which is 1.9% lower than the national average.

  For even lower prices, look just outside the city. Suburbs like Penn Hills, Wilkinsburg, and Brentwood typically offer rents below the city median. Meanwhile, trendier neighborhoods like Shadyside and the Strip District tend to come with higher price tags.

• What is the cheapest area in Pittsburgh to live in?

  Neighborhoods like Carrick, Beechview, and Brookline tend to offer more budget-friendly rental options, with lower-than-average prices compared to trendier parts of the city.

• What are the best areas in Pittsburgh to live?

  Some of the most popular neighborhoods for renters include Squirrel Hill and Lawrenceville—areas known for walkability, dining, and access to public transit.

• What are traffic and public transit like in Pittsburgh?

  In our renter survey, Pittsburgh earned high marks for both commute time (A+) and public transit (A). The city’s Port Authority runs buses, light rail (the T), and inclines. Average commute times are short, and many neighborhoods are bike- and walk-friendly. Traffic tends to peak between 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. on weekdays.

• Is it cheaper to rent or own in Pittsburgh?

  Homeowners in Pittsburgh pay about $1,437 per month on average. With the median rent at $1,371, renting edges out as the more affordable choice for many.

• What’s the best time to find an apartment in Pittsburgh?

  Rent growth has been strongest in spring and early summer. May alone saw a 1.5% price jump. If you're looking to save, winter months like December and January tend to offer lower prices and less competition.

• Does Pittsburgh have affordable housing?

  There are many affordable neighborhoods in Pittsburgh for budget-conscious renters. For apartment rentals in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at lower price points, search popular areas like:

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  • – Greenfield: Known for its sports facilities and iconic hiking paths — such as the Eliza Furnace Trail and Junction Hollow Trail — Greenfield is a lower-cost option with easy access to city amenities.
  • – Polish Hill: Polish Hill is a picturesque neighborhood with community gardens, recreational facilities, and the city’s beloved dive bar, Gooski’s.
  • – Allentown: Nestled between the South Side Slopes and Mount Washington, Allentown is full of funky shops, eateries, and breathtaking views of Grandview Park.

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  Other neighborhoods with affordable apartments for rent include Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, and Stanton Heights.