Pittsburgh is consistently ranked in Rand McNally's Top Ten Most Livable Cities in North America, and here's why: The city's cost of living beats similar metro areas and is 30 percent below the national average-one reason the market was ranked in the top five by U.S. News & World Report. But beyond housing, there's still plenty to do in Pittsburgh that won't break the bank.  Inexpensive dining options abound, and a number of restaurants offer half-price meals after 11 p.m. Many theatres and sporting venues offer inexpensive seats or last minute-deals, and the university's Pitt Arts program brings cultural discounts to campus. Pittsburgh's lack of sales tax on clothing and groceries helps stretch your budget even further.