Cost of living in Pittsburgh

The cost of living in Pittsburgh is slightly lower than the national average, but certain aspects of life in the city are fairly pricey.

In Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living City Ranking survey, Pittsburgh was ranked 62nd out of 226 cities surveyed. This puts it well below other major cities in the US and far below the likes of New York City (7th), Los Angeles (10th), and San Francisco (13th).

Cost of accommodation in Pittsburgh

Although accommodation costs are rising in Pittsburgh, renting or buying property is still relatively inexpensive. Newcomers are likely to find housing perfectly suited to their needs and budget. Those who want to keep their expenses minimal are advised to find a home in the areas and suburbs on the city’s outskirts.

Young professionals and single new arrivals seeking convenience and proximity to Pittsburgh’s vibrant spots should look no further than the city centre or the trendy Strip District. You should be prepared to pay steep rental fees in these neighbourhoods, though.

Additionally, utilities are fairly steep in Pittsburgh. They can add quite a bit to monthly expenses, especially during the cold winters, so you should budget carefully.

Cost of transport in Pittsburgh

Most areas are connected to well-priced public transport, and if you live a few miles from downtown, you can cycle or walk.

Many expats find owning a car in Pittsburgh unnecessary, but if you have children or live far out from the central area, you might need to invest in one. This can be pricey, especially as gas (petrol) is pricier in Pittsburgh than in many other US cities.

Cost of groceries in Pittsburgh

The grocery scene in Pittsburgh is like a smorgasbord of options. While some items are relatively pricier than in other parts of the US, there are enough shops offering a range of prices to suit every pocket, from big chains to local markets.

Fresh produce, meat, and dairy can be quite reasonable if you shop at local farmers’ markets or frequent supermarket sales. Imported goods or speciality items might pinch the pocket a bit more. Shopping smart and being open to exploring local alternatives can help you keep your grocery bills under control.

Residents often sing the praises of the Strip District, where you can get a medley of fresh and affordable produce, meats and other staples. The presence of multiple ethnic grocery shops here also allows expats to find familiar foods from home.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Pittsburgh

The City of Bridges has something to entertain new arrivals from all walks of life. The cost of entertainment and eating out will largely depend on newcomers’ personal preferences and budget, as Pittsburgh hosts a diverse range of nightlife and restaurant options.

The art and culture scene in the city is also well-established; the most popular museums will charge a fee, while small independent galleries are typically free of charge.

Pittsburgh also has a range of wallet-friendly outdoor activities for nature-loving new arrivals to enjoy. The Steel City is home to three nationally recognised sports teams. However, sports fans will have to budget to enjoy these games as ticket prices are quite steep.

Cost of education in Pittsburgh

There are plenty of excellent public schools in Pittsburgh, which can be attended free of charge. This includes charter and magnet schools. Private schools, on the other hand, charge school fees and can be expensive.

Several scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available for eligible students. Families and students should research and tap into these resources to alleviate the financial burden of private education in the city.

Cost of healthcare in Pittsburgh

Healthcare in Pittsburgh is of a high standard, with numerous top-notch hospitals and medical facilities. Like in much of the US, the cost of healthcare can be a major concern for many, especially those without comprehensive health insurance. Routine medical visits and prescription medicines are on par with the national average. That said, medical procedures and emergency care costs can be significantly higher.

It is essential to invest in a robust health insurance plan. If you are employed, you will often have part or all of your health insurance covered by your employer. If you are self-employed or without employer-sponsored plans, you should shop around for the best deals. Research and foresight can prevent unexpected healthcare costs from making too deep a dent in one’s pocket.