Written by: Madeline Blake
Date:

Finding the right place to call home is important, especially for families. Pittsburgh offers many neighborhoods, each with its own advantages for raising children. Whether you prioritize great schools, parks, or a close-knit community, there are several neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh that stand out. This city provides something for every family’s lifestyle. These neighborhoods offer access to quality education, safe environments, and plenty of recreational activities to keep kids engaged. Exploring these family-friendly options can help you find the perfect spot to settle down! If you decide to move and need help to find the right movers, reading Verified Movers reviews is the best thing to do!

About Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is located in southwestern Pennsylvania. The city is known as one of the best places for families in Pennsylvania. It sits at the confluence of three rivers: the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. Known as the “Steel City” due to its rich industrial history, it has since transformed into a hub for healthcare, technology, and education. With a population of over 300,000 residents, Pittsburgh offers the amenities of a larger city while maintaining a welcoming, close-knit community feel. The city is home to several world-renowned universities, including Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, making it a center for research and innovation.

buildings in Pittsburg
The city of Pittsburgh is one of the most popular cities in Pennsylvania.

One of Pittsburgh’s unique features is its 446 bridges, earning it the nickname “City of Bridges.” These bridges connect its various neighborhoods. Sports are also a big part of Pittsburgh’s culture, with devoted fans supporting teams like the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. The city’s arts scene includes museums like The Andy Warhol Museum, adding a touch of creativity to its industrial roots. Whether you’re exploring its cultural institutions or enjoying its parks and riverfront trails, Pittsburgh offers a unique mix of history, innovation, and community. Long distance moving companies Pittsburgh are at your service if you decide to move here!

Is Pittsburgh a Good Place for Families?

Pittsburgh is one of the best U.S. cities to raise a family, thanks to its cost of living which is 5% lower than national average, top-rated schools, and family-friendly neighborhoods. The city offers a variety of housing options, from suburban areas with spacious homes to urban districts with easy access to parks and recreational activities. Families benefit from Pittsburgh’s numerous green spaces, such as Frick Park and Schenley Park, which provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

The city is also home to known educational institutions and healthcare facilities, ensuring that families have access to quality services. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods are known for their safety, excellent schools, and welcoming communities, making it easier for families to settle down. With a range of activities, from museums to sports events, Pittsburgh offers a balanced mix of culture, education, and entertainment, making it a great choice for families seeking both convenience and community. Moving here with best long distance moving companies Pennsylvania is worth considering!

happy family having fun after moving to one of the best neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh
Families love this city!

The Top 8 Neighborhoods for Families in Pittsburgh

If you are considering moving to Pittsburgh with your family, these are the neighborhoods you should pay attention to:

  • Squirrel Hill
  • Mount Lebanon
  • Shadyside
  • Fox Chapel
  • Upper St. Clair
  • Regent Square
  • Cranberry Township
  • Lawrenceville

Squirrel Hill

Squirrel Hill is one of Pittsburgh’s most sought-after neighborhoods for families. It offers both suburban tranquility and city convenience. Located just minutes from downtown, it provides easy access for parents commuting to work. The neighborhood is home to Taylor Allderdice High School, known for its excellent academic programs, as well as several private schools, making it a prime choice for education-focused families. Squirrel Hill also offers ample green space, with Frick Park covering 644 acres. It’s one of the city’s largest parks, providing hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families to enjoy.

For everyday conveniences, Squirrel Hill has numerous grocery stores, shopping centers, and dining options, making it easy for families to meet their daily needs. The neighborhood’s community centers and local library offer family-oriented events, ensuring there’s always something to do for kids and parents alike. With its excellent schools, parks, and proximity to downtown, Squirrel Hill remains a top choice for families seeking both education and recreation. The median home price here is around $732,608.

children playing outside
The neighborhood of Squirrel Hill is a top choice for families seeking both education and green spaces in Pittsburgh.

Mount Lebanon

Mount Lebanon is a standout neighborhood for families, known for its highly regarded public school district, which consistently ranks among the best in Pennsylvania. Located just six miles south of downtown Pittsburgh, this area provides families with easy access to the city while maintaining a close-knit, suburban atmosphere. Parents appreciate the variety of educational options, including both public and private schools, ensuring children receive a well-rounded education.

Mount Lebanon also offers plenty of outdoor spaces for families, such as Bird Park and Williamsburg Park, where kids can play and explore nature. The area hosts a range of community events throughout the year, from farmers markets to holiday festivals, helping families stay connected with their neighbors. Walkability, safety, and charming homes make Mount Lebanon an ideal place for families to settle down. Whether it’s a weekend at the park or a family outing to local shops, Mount Lebanon provides a peaceful and welcoming environment for raising children. The median home price here is $393,837. With this home price, it is one of the best neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh.

Shadyside

Shadyside offers a unique mix of urban living and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for parents seeking both convenience and comfort. Located just east of downtown Pittsburgh, this neighborhood is known for its safe streets and highly rated schools. Families benefit from the area’s proximity to cultural attractions, including museums and galleries, as well as top-notch shopping along Walnut Street. This dynamic shopping district is home to boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, giving families plenty of options for weekend outings.

Shadyside also offers plenty of green spaces, such as Mellon Park and Highland Park, where families can enjoy outdoor activities. Local events, such as farmers markets and family-friendly festivals, contribute to a strong sense of community. For families with parents working in nearby hospitals or universities, Shadyside provides a convenient location close to major employers like UPMC and Carnegie Mellon University. With its mix of city amenities and a relaxed neighborhood feel, Shadyside remains a top choice for families. If you are interested in moving here and buying a house, expect the median price of around $461,497.

family unpacking stuff
When it comes to the best neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh, Shadyside is worth mentioning!

Fox Chapel

Fox Chapel is known for its peaceful environment, large homes, and excellent school system, making it one of the best neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh. It is an ideal option for families who prioritize space and education. Located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Pittsburgh, Fox Chapel offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city. The Fox Chapel Area School District is one of the most highly regarded in the region, offering strong academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities for students.

The neighborhood is also rich in outdoor recreation, with Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve offering 134 acres of hiking trails, birdwatching, and nature education programs. For families seeking more structured activities, Fox Chapel’s private clubs and sports facilities provide opportunities for both children and adults to stay active. With its spacious homes, excellent schools, and abundant green space, Fox Chapel offers families a quiet, family-friendly environment without sacrificing proximity to Pittsburgh’s urban amenities. For many, the only disadvantage of moving here may be the median price of homes, which is near $1,300,000.

Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair is consistently rated as one of the safest and most family-friendly neighborhoods in the Pittsburgh area. Located about 10 miles southwest of the city, this suburban neighborhood is renowned for its top-tier schools, including Upper St. Clair High School, which ranks among the best in the state. Families are drawn to the area’s commitment to education, with numerous academic and extracurricular programs that help children thrive.

In addition to its strong educational system, Upper St. Clair offers a variety of recreational facilities. The Upper St. Clair Recreation Center features swimming pools, sports courts, and a range of youth programs. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities at Boyce Mayview Park, a 475-acre park with trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. With its focus on safety, education, and recreation, Upper St. Clair remains a favorite among the best neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh. This neighborhood also offers relatively affordable housing, with the median home price of $499,000.

Regent Square

Regent Square is a small but charming neighborhood that appeals to families seeking an affordable, community-oriented environment. Known for its safe streets and walkability, the area provides a mix of housing options, from affordable homes with an average price of $393,823 to rental properties, making it accessible for a wide range of families. Frick Park, which borders the neighborhood, is a major draw, offering over 600 acres of trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for family outings.

The neighborhood is also known for its lively community events, such as outdoor movie nights, holiday parades, and block parties, which help families connect with neighbors. While Regent Square may not have as many schools within its immediate boundaries, it benefits from proximity to well-rated public and private schools in neighboring areas. With its affordable housing, family-oriented atmosphere, and access to one of Pittsburgh’s largest parks, Regent Square is a great option for families looking for a tight-knit community in a more urban setting. If you choose to move, helping your child to settle in will be easy here!

family lying on green grass
Families in Pittsburgh can enjoy both suburban living and proximity to downtown.

Cranberry Township

While technically outside the city of Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township is worth mentioning for families who prefer suburban life. Located about 20 miles north of Pittsburgh, this growing community offers plenty of family-friendly features. The Seneca Valley School District serves the area and is well-regarded for both academics and athletics.

Cranberry Township is also known for its parks and recreation options. North Boundary Park offers sports fields, a waterpark, and walking trails, making it a perfect spot for families with active children. The township regularly hosts community events, providing opportunities for families to engage with neighbors. While it’s a bit farther from the city, Cranberry Township’s affordability, schools, and amenities make it a solid choice for families. Choose the ideal moving services for you and make the move!

Lawrenceville

Lawrenceville, once an industrial area, has transformed into one of Pittsburgh’s trendiest neighborhoods. While it has a younger demographic, families are increasingly moving in thanks to its walkable streets, access to playgrounds, and quality schools nearby. The neighborhood’s revitalization means it now has many family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Lawrenceville also offers plenty of parks and recreational areas for families to enjoy. Arsenal Park and the nearby Allegheny River provide open spaces for children to play and families to explore. There are also some other fun family activities to do after the move here. The proximity to Children’s Hospital and the ease of commuting to downtown Pittsburgh are additional perks for families in this area. The average home value in Lawrenceville is $226,909.

a house with grass yard
You will find affordable homes in Lawrenceville!

Pittsburgh Awaits!

Pittsburgh offers a wide variety of options when it comes to finding the perfect place to raise a family. From the suburban feel of Squirrel Hill to the peaceful atmosphere of Fox Chapel, there are many neighborhoods for families in Pittsburgh that cater to different needs. Whether you value top-rated schools, green spaces, or a close-knit community, these neighborhoods provide safe, family-friendly environments that support a balanced lifestyle. Exploring the many neighborhoods across Pittsburgh ensures families can find a spot that fits their lifestyle, offering a great place to call home!