Living a Cultural Center Lifestyle in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a lively cultural community. It has a beautiful setting where two major rivers (the Allegheny and the Monongahela) combine against a backdrop of steep hills. Nicknamed the “Steel City," that industry's collapse led to a hi-tech and medical resurgence in the city’s economy. The University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne, Carnegie-Mellon, Chatham College, and Washington & Jefferson College are just some of the prestigious schools in the area contributing to the cultural scene. The student presence has a major impact on the city 's ambiance, culture and economy. Heinz Hall, the Andy Warhol Museum, and the Pittsburgh Dance theater are just three of the offerings here.

Although Pittsburgh is Pennsylvania’s second largest city (310,000) it has a relaxed feeling. There are distinct districts here including a compact downtown area near the Point (where the rivers combine) with many skyscrapers.

 Photo of Shadyside courtesy of Wikipedia, Flickr, and jparise.

Where to Retire in Pittsburgh and Home Prices

The North Side is residential and has many architecturally interesting homes, along with many of the city’s popular attractions. The East End is home to the city’s universities and colleges and combines a noticeable student presence with homes for the very wealthy (in Shadyside and Squirrel Hill). The West End’s Mt. Washington features the Incline, a ride that showcases a great view of the city. Homes in that area also provide stunning views. There are a number of ethnic neighborhoods, including the famous Hill District (African American). There are many lovingly restored homes in neighborhoods. There are active communities in the area (see link at left). According to Zillow, the median home value in Pittsburgh was $237,934, in mid-2022.

What Is Special about Pittsburgh

Relaxed living in a culturally rich environment: consistently rated as a top livable city, world famous sports teams, Duquesne Incline, Monongahela Incline,  Fort Duquesne,  Fort Pitt,  Cathedral of Learning,  Mattress Factory  (museum of contemporary installation art), Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Point State Park, The South Side,  The Waterfront, The Strip District

Pittsburgh is rated above average for walkability and for biking.

What Is Not Special about Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh winters are cold and dreary, although the region does not receive much snowfall. Here are some helpful facts about what it is like to retire in Pennsylvania.

Climate and Physical Environment

The city is in the southwest corner of Pennsylvania. It is located at the confluence of the Allegheny River and Monongahela River, where they form the Ohio River. The area between the rivers is called the Golden Triangle. The terrain is extremely hilly. The July average high temp is 85 and the January average low is 20. May is the rainiest month.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The wealth created by Pittsburgh's industrial past has resulted in an unusually strong cultural life. Major institutions include the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (in Heinz Hall), the Pittsburgh Opera, the Pittsburgh Dance Council and the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater. The River City Brass Band and the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra perform here. Pittsburgh has a long tradition of jazz, blues and bluegrass music. Museums include the Andy Warhol Museum, ArtGardens of Pittsburgh, the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Frick Art & Historical Center, Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

Crime

The City-Data.com reported crime rate in Pittsburgh was 544 versus the U.S. average of 321.

Medical Facilities

There are more than a dozen hospitals here, many of which are world famous.

Transportation

Pittsburgh International Airport is new. The mall structure it uses is the model of the new airport. The mass transit system, the 11th largest in the nation, is excellent with buses, light rail, and funiculars (Inclines). Amtrak offers intercity rail service. There are bike trails along the riverfronts. Pittsburgh is above average in walkability when compared to other cities.

Valuable Links

Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Rate This Town