Over the past few years, it seems like everyone is giving accolades to Pittsburgh. The “Steel City” has been named by The Economist most livable city three times in the past ten years, with the most recent being just last year. The high honors certainly come as no surprise to those living in and around the Pittsburgh area. However, it has led to some head scratches from those that are not familiar with this vibrant metropolis.
What makes living in Pittsburgh so great? Simply put, Pittsburgh has the whole package when it comes to a place to live, and it starts with the Pittsburgh housing market. Lets take a look at some of the advantages of the Pittsburgh market.
- It is affordable. When it comes to housing, Pittsburgh is the fifth most affordable metropolitan area to live in. Its property costs are low which gives buyers much more for their money than in cities like Boston or Philadelphia. The affordability of housing gives residents much more freedom to spend their money as they see fit. Additionally, without having to worry as much on being able to afford their homes, many Pittsburghers are less likely to develop stress-related diseases. Affordability doesn’t just help your pockets.
- The downtown community is changing. We have seen a shift in the downtown housing market lately in Pittsburgh. As more updated housing becomes available, more and more residents are choosing life downtown as opposed to the surrounding suburbs. As of 2012, the PDP found 27% of residents in the downtown area are 30 and younger while 62% are 50 and younger. The shift to a younger resident population will, in time, lead to more couples raising children downtown. There has also been a shift in wealth. No longer are there only very low income and very high income households downtown. The number of middle income households earning between $51,000 and $150,000 rose 13% between 2010 and 2012 and has continued to rise. As the demographic of residents changes, so does the surrounding area.
- There are a wide variety of neighborhoods. Pittsburgh has some of the most diverse neighborhoods of any city. From Mount Washington to Shadyside and Lawrenceville, just to name a few, many of these downtown neighborhoods are great residential options for people of all ages. Places like Lawrenceville are seeing a lot of new housing opportunities and enhancements of those already existing, Shadyside and other well-established neighborhood have lots of shopping and restaurants, and Mount Washington offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Regardless of the neighborhood, Pittsburgh is sure to have one to fit any resident’s lifestyle.
With such diversity, availability, and affordability, Pittsburgh is sure to have a property that is just right. With assistance from realtors at a company that knows the city and is passionate about its success and enhancement, you can find the home of your dreams and understand why living in Pittsburgh is such a great experience.
