Whether you’re looking for a forever home or a short-term apartment, you’ll pay less in the Steel City than in other major metro areas in the country. Discover why Pittsburgh has been repeatedly recognized for housing affordability and find resources for hopeful homebuyers.
From renter’s tips to apartment listings to roommates, Off-Campus Student Services offers a comprehensive guide to residential accommodations.
Housing Affordability
- Why Pittsburgh is Affordable
Pittsburgh has been ranked again and again as one of the most affordable metros in the country and was recently even named the No. 3 best city for new college graduates.
- Student & Rental Housing
That’s in part based on the wide availability and affordability of rental housing. There are many Pitt-owned housing options specifically for graduate and professional students, and Off-Campus Student Services offers a range of resources for renters, including apartment listings, legal tips for tenants, roommate matching and more.
- Buying a Home in Pittsburgh
If you are ready to put down Pittsburgh roots, homeownership is within reach here. You don’t have to take our word for it: A recent Realtor.com analysis found that nearly 70% of households can afford to buy a median-priced home here. Pennsylvania is among the best states in the nation for middle-class homebuyers and, for recent grads and young professionals, the Steel City gives more bang for your buck when it comes to buying a starter home.
- Financial Assistance & Programs
First-time buyers can apply for up to $45,000 in loan assistance from Allegheny County. The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh offers a portfolio of affordable homes for sale in the city as well as loans and assistance programs for qualified buyers. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency also offers low-interest loans for home purchase and repairs, so you can avoid predatory lenders.
- Community & Regional Resources
Regional organizations like First Front Door, NeighborWorks and Rebuilding Together are also here to help on your homebuying journey. See if you qualify for state and federal utility initiatives like the Dollar Energy Fund and Affordable Connectivity Program.
- Second-Hand & Budget-Friendly Options
Whether you’re building a temporary or forever home, make it your own for less by visiting one of the many second-hand home goods stores in Pittsburgh and surrounding counties: E.N. Miller Antique Mall, Miller’s Crossing Fleatique, Second Harvest, Thriftique, Construction Junction, L&L Fleatique and Your Favorite Things. Most neighborhoods in the city also have a registered Buy Nothing group, so you can take and give freely with your community.