Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has a wide variety of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its unique character and charm. In this guide, we take a look at the best neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and why they’re such great places to live. 

10 Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh 

1. Shadyside
2. Squirrel Hill
3. Regent Square
4. Highland Park
5. Friendship
6. North Shore
7. Point Breeze
8. Lawrenceville
9. South Side
10. Mount Washington

1. Shadyside

Shadyside, named after a 19th-century railroad station that was heavily shaded by trees, is the best neighborhood in ‘the Burgh.’ Shadyside boasts historic homes and a location close to the city center. It’s a favorite among young professionals and families largely due to its proximity to cultural institutions, boutique shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and nightclubs. 

2. Squirrel Hill

Squirrel Hill is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, as well as several universities and hospitals. With its diverse population and many international eateries, it’s a food lover’s paradise. Squirrel Hill is also one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Pittsburgh.

The neighborhood is known for its excellent schools and welcoming community, making it a popular choice for families. Frick Park, at over 644 acres, is one of the largest municipal parks in the city and provides a natural retreat. Squirrel Hill is also pedestrian-friendly, making it a great fit for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

3. Regent Square

Regent Square, located in the East End, is a peaceful residential area with a strong sense of community. It offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle with Frick Park and the Frick Environmental Center at its doorstep. Regent Square is also one of the safest places to live in Pittsburgh. 

With venues like the Regent Square Theater and local galleries, residents have access to a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Many local events, a family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and safe streets make it a top Pittsburgh neighborhood.

4. Highland Park

Number four on our list is Highland Park, a charming neighborhood in Pittsburgh known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. It’s a haven for nature lovers and families seeking a peaceful retreat. The neighborhood is home to the 77-acre Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, one of only six major zoo and aquarium combinations in the US. The stunning Highland Park offers a bike track, lake, swimming pool, and several playgrounds, making the area a green oasis within the city limits. 

5. Friendship

The second smallest neighborhood in Pittsburgh is Friendship, a charming, strictly residential area in the East End of Pittsburgh. It’s prized for its historic architecture and peaceful streets. Residents enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to cultural institutions like the Carnegie Museum of Art &Natural History and award-winning restaurants. A tight-knit community, Friendship is true to its name, holding an annual Flower and Folk Festival where flowers, plants, and art are sold, and local bands, food, and activities for children make it one big, friendly block party.

6. North Shore

The North Shore offers an unparalleled urban experience with stunning riverfront views. Home to major sports venues like PNC Park and Heinz Field, it’s a sports enthusiast’s paradise. The North Shore is also home to popular cultural destinations like the Andy Warhol Museum, the National Aviary, and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. The neighborhood’s riverfront trails, entertainment options, and proximity to Downtown make it a prime location for professionals and sports fans.

7. Point Breeze

Point Breeze is an elegant neighborhood in the East End known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes. Residents appreciate the proximity to Frick Park, which offers extensive hiking trails and green space. The nearby Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and the Frick Art & Historical Center provide opportunities for art and cultural enrichment. Point Breeze is known for having great schools and a low crime rate, making it perfect for families.

8. Lawrenceville

Lawrenceville is a hip and trendy neighborhood. With its repurposed industrial spaces, local shops, and a thriving arts scene, it’s a hub for creatives and entrepreneurs. With its music venues, bars, art walks, and cultural events, it offers plenty of energy and excitement. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Arsenal Park, delicious eats at trendy cafes, and the beautiful architecture of Lawrenceville’s well-preserved historic buildings and rowhouses. 

9. South Side

Pittsburgh’s South Side, divided into the Flats, Slopes, and South Shore, lies south of Downtown. East Carson Street offers an array of unique shops, galleries, and dining spots. The South Side Slopes features affordable living with stunning city views, providing a unique, historic living experience. The proximity to the South Side Riverfront Park and easy access to the city’s core add to its dynamic appeal. You can take advantage of the two inclines, which travel up Mount Washington and offer breathtaking views of downtown Pittsburgh. 

10. Mount Washington

Rounding out our top ten is the iconic Mount Washington neighborhood. Best known for its stunning views of the city skyline, this area also boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines, or funiculars, are now rare historical modes of transportation that utilize rails to move cars up and down hillsides. These allow quick travel between the city center and Mount Washington, allowing residents to be close to the city center while enjoying the peace and quiet of a residential neighborhood.

10 Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh Compared

Best Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh Bottom Line

Pittsburgh's neighborhoods are as unique and diverse as its residents, offering a wide array of amenities that cater to every taste. Lawrenceville has a lot of energy and excitement, Shadyside is brimming with style and sophistication, and Highland Park offers plenty of green space for outdoor activities. No matter what you're looking for, with its rich history, welcoming communities, and thriving cultural scene, Pittsburgh’s ten best neighborhoods have something for everyone.