A view of Downtown Pittsburgh from Allegheny Landing Park.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, often known as the "Steel City," blends a rich industrial history with a modern, tech-driven future. With its strong sense of community, affordable cost of living, and abundance of cultural and outdoor amenities, this city is a standout destination for renters moving from another city. If you're considering relocating to Pittsburgh on a budget, we've got you covered.

The five cheapest neighborhoods in Pittsburgh in 2025 are:

  1. Whitehall
  2. South Allegheny
  3. North Allegheny
  4. Squirrel Hill South
  5. Crawford Roberts Hill

Whitehall

The Hillside Meadows apartment community is made up of a series of red brick colonial buildings.
Apartments.com/Hillside Meadows

Whitehall is a peaceful suburb several miles south of Downtown Pittsburgh, offering tree-lined streets,  a friendly community, and a short drive to the city center. While it’s technically a borough, Whitehall feels like an extension of the city, catering to those seeking a quiet lifestyle without straying too far from the action.

Things to do in Whitehall

Whitehall offers plenty of amenities to keep residents busy. Enjoy a round of golf at the South Hills Country Club or a recreational pickleball match at one of the free courts in Millennium Park, a public park in the neighboring Bethel Park. Whitehall residents also enjoy plenty of community events put together by local organizations, bringing neighbors together to enjoy shared experiences.

Transportation

Residents benefit from convenient access to public transportation through Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). The PRT light rail Blue Line makes stops near Whitehall and runs through Downtown Pittsburgh to Allegheny West. Six different bus routes also connect Whitehall to the rest of the city, making it easy to commute without a car.

South Allegheny

A cozy living room at Hilltop Parkview Apartments features a comfy suede couch and a large floral rug.
Apartments.com/Hilltop Parkview Apartments
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,331/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in South Allegheny: $1,106/month
  • Median home value in South Allegheny: $200,000

South Allegheny is a welcoming area close to everything Pittsburgh has to offer. Located adjacent to the South Shore, it attracts renters who prefer a slower pace of life but still want easy access to the activity in Downtown Pittsburgh. South Allegheny also has an extensive school district, ensuring a good quality of life for everyone.

Things to do in South Allegheny

South Allegheny residents enjoy an abundance of activities, from leisurely walks along the Monongahela River to dining at riverside cafes. The neighborhood is also home to several shopping centers like Station Square and the Galleria of Mt. Lebanon, allowing for plenty of retail therapy.

Transportation

The community is well-connected by public transit, with various bus lines that take residents into the city in minutes. For drivers, major highways such as I-376 and Route 51 offer seamless connections to other parts of the region. The PRT light rail Red and Blue Lines further facilitate commuter access to central Pittsburgh.

North Allegheny

A cozy kitchen at Pacific Highlands Apartments in North Allegheny features a dishwasher, four-burner stove, and a breakfast counter.
Apartments.com/Pacific Highlands Apartments
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,331/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in North Allegheny: $1,110/month
  • Median home value in North Allegheny: $400,000

Known for excellent schools, expansive green spaces, and a strong sense of community, North Allegheny is a popular pick for renters. Its calm streets and well-maintained parks create a welcoming environment for people at all stages of life.

Things to do in North Allegheny

From weekend outings at Riverview Park to shopping at Ross Park Mall, North Allegheny keeps its residents engaged. There’s a growing culinary scene with cozy eateries and family-run establishments, where neighbors often gather. Local community events, like holiday parades and summer concerts, foster the area’s friendly atmosphere.

Transportation

Residents benefit from straightforward commutes, thanks to major highways such as I-279 and US-19 providing easy access to Downtown Pittsburgh and nearby areas. PRT buses also regularly run through the neighborhood.

Squirrel Hill South

Modern apartment units in The Wendover Community in Squirrel Hill South contrast the community’s neoclassical architecture.
Apartments.com/The Wendover Community
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,331/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Squirrel Hill South: $1,148/month
  • Median home value in Squirrel Hill South: $425,000

Known for its walkability and eclectic ambiance, Squirrel Hill South is one of Pittsburgh's most vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a hot spot for renters seeking a mix of cultural diversity, historic charm, and modern amenities.

Things to do in Squirrel Hill South

Squirrel Hill South offers an array of activities to its residents. Frick Park borders the neighborhood and is perfect for a morning run or a long walk with your dog. For dining and shopping, the Murray and Forbes Avenue corridors are packed with cafes, bookstores, and specialty shops. Squirrel Hill South is also celebrated for its rich community, with events like the Squirrel Hill Night Market being year-round favorites.

Transportation

Multiple bus routes run through the neighborhood, providing direct connections to Downtown Pittsburgh and beyond. Additionally, its proximity to major roads like Forbes and Murray Avenue makes it easy to travel throughout the city.

Crawford Roberts Hill

Sunlight streams into an apartment unit through large windows looking out to Downtown Pittsburgh.
Apartments.com/Flats on Fifth
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Pittsburgh: $1,331/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Crawford Roberts Hill: $1,179/month
  • Median home value in Crawford Roberts Hill: $184,250

Situated within Downtown Pittsburgh just east of The Point, Crawford Roberts Hill is an up-and-coming neighborhood that combines historical significance with a rising sense of community. Known for its steep streets and scenic views of the Pittsburgh skyline, this neighborhood has become increasingly popular, and modern rentals and an active neighborhood association have made it a desirable area for renters looking to settle close to the city center.

Things to do in Crawford Roberts Hill

The neighborhood doubles as a cultural and recreational hub. The PPG Paints Arena hosts basketball games and concerts, and its proximity to Crawford Roberts Hill makes a night out easy to plan. The nearby Duquesne University campus offers plenty of events, including public lectures, art exhibitions, and athletic games. Mellon Square and Point State Park are perfect for a day in the sun, and foodies frequent local favorites like Bigelow Grille or stop by specialty grocers in the area for fresh, local goods.

Transportation

Crawford Roberts Hill is well-connected to the rest of Pittsburgh, making commuting simple and efficient. Several PRT bus routes serve the area, providing quick access to other parts of Downtown Pittsburgh. For drivers, major highways like I-579 and the Boulevard of the Allies run nearby, ensuring smooth connections to surrounding neighborhoods. Walking and biking are also common in Crawford Roberts Hill due to its proximity to Pittsburgh's core and the recently expanded bike infrastructure.

Make the Most of Your Move 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 an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search within a price range that works for you.

No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.

Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s March 2025 reports.

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Chloe Savan

Hi! I'm Chloe, a content writer for Apartments.com. I've lived in three apartments in the past four years, so I know the ropes of renting. When I'm not at my desk writing, I can be found curled up on my couch with a craft in my hands or catching up with my friends over tacos!

Chloe Savan smiling in graduation pictures.
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