For renters searching for a one bedroom apartment in the Pittsburgh region, prices vary significantly by location. A budget that secures a luxury unit in one neighborhood may only cover a modest apartment in another. Understanding the price landscape across the city and surrounding suburbs helps renters make informed decisions about where to focus their search.
This guide provides a comprehensive price breakdown for one bedroom apartments across Pittsburgh neighborhoods and nearby townships, covering typical rent ranges, what each price point includes, and the trade offs involved.
Overview of One Bedroom Rental Prices
One bedroom apartments are the most common rental type in Pittsburgh, accounting for a significant portion of available inventory. Prices range from under $800 in affordable areas to over $2,500 in premium neighborhoods with new construction and luxury amenities.
The price of a one bedroom apartment is primarily driven by three factors: location, building age, and included amenities. A newer building with a fitness center and roof terrace in a walkable neighborhood will command a premium over an older building with no amenities in a residential area.
City Neighborhoods
Downtown Pittsburgh
Downtown one bedroom apartments are concentrated in high rise buildings with modern finishes and extensive amenities. The location provides walking access to offices, cultural institutions, restaurants, and entertainment.
One bedroom apartments in downtown typically range from $1,800 to $2,500 per month. Units feature high end finishes including quartz or granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood flooring, and floor to ceiling windows. Amenities often include fitness centers, roof terraces, concierge services, and clubrooms.
Parking is an additional expense, typically $150 to $200 per month. Renters who work downtown may choose to live without a car, eliminating this cost. For those who drive, the total monthly outlay can approach $2,700.
Strip District
The Strip District has seen significant new development, with luxury apartment buildings attracting renters who want to be close to downtown and the terminal market.
One bedroom apartments in the Strip District typically range from $1,700 to $2,300 per month. Units are in newer buildings with modern finishes, floor to ceiling windows, and premium amenities. Many offer river or city views.
Amenities typically include fitness centers, roof terraces, and concierge services. Parking is available for an additional $100 to $200 per month. The location provides walking access to downtown, the terminal market, and the riverfront trail.
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville’s popularity has driven rents up, but the neighborhood remains more accessible than downtown or the Strip District for some renters.
One bedroom apartments in Lawrenceville typically range from $1,300 to $2,000 per month. The wide range reflects the diversity of housing stock. Units in renovated industrial buildings with exposed brick and large windows command higher rents. Units in older row houses or smaller buildings are more moderate.
Lower Lawrenceville, closest to the Strip District, has the highest rents. Central and Upper Lawrenceville offer more affordable options. Parking is challenging, and off street parking adds $50 to $150 per month when available.
Shadyside
Shadyside commands premium rents comparable to Lawrenceville. The neighborhood’s walkable commercial district and tree lined streets are major draws.
One bedroom apartments in Shadyside typically range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. Newer luxury buildings near Walnut Street command the highest rates. Older converted homes offer more moderate options, often with character features such as hardwood floors and fireplaces.
Parking is often not included, with off street spaces adding $75 to $150 per month. Street parking is available but competitive near the commercial district.
Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill offers strong value for renters who want walkable amenities and park access without the highest premiums.
One bedroom apartments in Squirrel Hill typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Units in older converted homes offer character features and generous square footage. Newer buildings and units closer to the Forbes and Murray commercial district command higher rents.
Parking is typically street parking, though some buildings offer off street spaces for a fee. The neighborhood’s walkability means many residents can reduce car dependency.
South Side Flats
The South Side Flats offer a range of one bedroom options, from modest units to newer luxury apartments.
One bedroom apartments in the South Side Flats typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Units in older row house conversions are at the lower end, while newer buildings near the river command higher rents.
Parking is the primary challenge in this neighborhood. Off street parking adds $50 to $150 per month when available. Renters with vehicles should prioritize buildings with dedicated parking.
North Shore
The North Shore offers newer construction with river and skyline views within walking distance of downtown.
One bedroom apartments on the North Shore typically range from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Units are in newer luxury buildings with high end finishes, floor to ceiling windows, and amenities such as fitness centers and roof terraces.
Parking is available in garages for an additional $100 to $200 per month. The location provides a short walk to downtown across the Andy Warhol or Roberto Clemente bridges.
Oakland
Oakland has a high concentration of one bedroom apartments catering to students and medical professionals.
One bedroom apartments in Oakland typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Central Oakland, closest to the universities, has the highest rents. North Oakland and South Oakland offer more moderate options.
Parking is limited, and many residents rely on walking or transit. Units in older buildings dominate the market, with fewer luxury options than other neighborhoods.
Highland Park
Highland Park offers a quieter residential setting with access to the namesake park.
One bedroom apartments in Highland Park typically range from $900 to $1,400 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes, often with character features. The Bryant Street business district provides walkable access to basic services.
Parking is generally available, with many properties offering off street spaces. The neighborhood’s quiet character appeals to renters seeking a residential atmosphere.
Greenfield
Greenfield offers affordable one bedroom apartments near Squirrel Hill and Oakland.
One bedroom apartments in Greenfield typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes. The neighborhood’s residential character and access to Schenley Park are draws.
Parking is generally available, with many properties offering off street spaces. The commute to Oakland takes 5 to 10 minutes by car or bus.
Dormont
Dormont offers one bedroom apartments with T light rail access to downtown.
One bedroom apartments in Dormont typically range from $900 to $1,300 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes. The West Liberty Avenue commercial district provides walkable access to a grocery store, pharmacy, and dining.
The T provides a 10 to 15 minute ride to downtown, eliminating parking costs for commuters. Parking in Dormont can be challenging near the T stations and commercial district.
Carnegie
Carnegie offers affordable one bedroom apartments with a short commute to downtown.
One bedroom apartments in Carnegie typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes. The West Main Street business district provides walkable access to a grocery store, pharmacy, and dining.
Parking is generally available, with many properties offering off street spaces. The drive to downtown takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Bellevue
Bellevue offers affordable one bedroom apartments along the Ohio River.
One bedroom apartments in Bellevue typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes. The Lincoln Avenue business district provides walkable access to a grocery store, pharmacy, and dining.
Parking is generally available, with many properties offering off street spaces. The drive to downtown takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Crafton
Crafton offers affordable one bedroom apartments with a tunnel free drive to downtown.
One bedroom apartments in Crafton typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Units are in older buildings and converted homes. The business district along Crafton Boulevard provides a grocery store and local businesses.
Parking is generally available, with many properties offering off street spaces. The drive to downtown via the West End Bridge takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Suburban Townships
Ross Township
Ross Township offers one bedroom apartments in garden style complexes with dedicated parking.
One bedroom apartments in Ross Township typically range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Units are in complexes with amenities such as swimming pools and fitness centers. Parking is included.
The commute to downtown takes 15 to 20 minutes via Interstate 279. The McKnight Road retail corridor provides extensive shopping within a short drive.
Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon offers one bedroom apartments with T light rail access to downtown.
One bedroom apartments in Mt. Lebanon typically range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. The wide range reflects the diversity of housing stock. Units near Uptown or the T stations command the highest rents. Units farther from the commercial district offer more moderate options.
Parking is often available but may not be included in rent. The T provides a 15 to 20 minute ride to downtown.
Bethel Park
Bethel Park offers one bedroom apartments in garden style complexes with T access.
One bedroom apartments in Bethel Park typically range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. Units are in complexes with amenities such as swimming pools and fitness centers. Parking is included.
The T provides a 25 to 35 minute ride to downtown. South Hills Village and other retail are within a short drive.
Cranberry Township
Cranberry Township offers one bedroom apartments in newer garden style and luxury complexes.
One bedroom apartments in Cranberry Township typically range from $1,400 to $2,000 per month. Units are in newer complexes with modern finishes and extensive amenities. Parking is included.
The commute to downtown takes 30 to 40 minutes via Interstate 79. The township has extensive retail and employment opportunities within its boundaries.
Monroeville
Monroeville offers one bedroom apartments in garden style complexes near the Parkway East.
One bedroom apartments in Monroeville typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Units are in complexes with amenities such as swimming pools and fitness centers. Parking is included.
The commute to downtown takes 20 to 30 minutes via the Parkway East. The Monroeville Mall and surrounding retail provide extensive shopping.
Price Comparison by Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | Typical One Bedroom Rent | Parking | Transit Access | Walkability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | $1,800-2,500 | Add $150-200 | Excellent | Excellent |
| Strip District | $1,700-2,300 | Add $100-200 | Excellent | Excellent |
| Lawrenceville | $1,300-2,000 | Add $50-150 | Good | Excellent |
| Shadyside | $1,400-2,200 | Add $75-150 | Good | Excellent |
| Squirrel Hill | $1,200-1,800 | Street or fee | Good | Excellent |
| South Side | $1,200-1,800 | Add $50-150 | Good | Good |
| North Shore | $1,500-2,200 | Add $100-200 | Excellent | Excellent |
| Oakland | $1,000-1,500 | Limited | Excellent | Good |
| Highland Park | $900-1,400 | Often included | Limited | Limited |
| Greenfield | $800-1,200 | Often included | Good | Limited |
| Dormont | $900-1,300 | Street or fee | Excellent (T) | Good |
| Carnegie | $800-1,200 | Often included | Good | Good |
| Bellevue | $800-1,200 | Often included | Good | Good |
| Crafton | $800-1,200 | Often included | Good | Good |
| Ross Township | $1,100-1,500 | Included | Limited | Limited |
| Mt. Lebanon | $1,400-2,200 | Often included | Excellent (T) | Good |
| Bethel Park | $1,100-1,600 | Included | Limited (T) | Limited |
| Cranberry | $1,400-2,000 | Included | Limited | Limited |
| Monroeville | $1,000-1,500 | Included | Limited | Limited |
What Different Price Points Get You
Under $1,000
At this price point, one bedroom apartments are found in neighborhoods such as Greenfield, Carnegie, Bellevue, Crafton, and Highland Park. Units are typically in older buildings, often converted homes. Amenities are limited. Window air conditioning, shared laundry, and street parking are common. Off street parking is available at some properties.
These neighborhoods offer quieter, residential settings with commutes of 10 to 15 minutes to downtown.
$1,000 to $1,500
At this price point, renters have options across the city and suburbs. In neighborhoods such as Squirrel Hill, the South Side, Oakland, Dormont, and Ross Township, renters can find one bedroom units in well maintained buildings. Some units in this range include off street parking.
In the suburbs, this price point covers garden style complexes with amenities such as pools and fitness centers.
$1,500 to $2,000
At this price point, renters access premium neighborhoods. In Lawrenceville and Shadyside, this budget covers one bedroom units in desirable locations. In the North Shore and Strip District, this price point covers one bedroom units in newer buildings, though parking adds to the total.
In the suburbs, this budget covers luxury one bedroom units in newer complexes.
Over $2,000
At this price point, renters access the highest end of the market. Downtown and Strip District luxury buildings offer one bedroom units with high end finishes, city or river views, and comprehensive amenities. Parking adds an additional $150 to $200 per month.
Making the Decision
The price of a one bedroom apartment in Pittsburgh varies significantly by neighborhood. Renters should consider not only the base rent but also parking costs, utility expenses, and commuting costs when comparing options.
For renters who prioritize walkability and urban energy, neighborhoods such as Lawrenceville, Shadyside, and Squirrel Hill offer one bedroom units across a range of price points. For those who value transit access, Dormont and Mt. Lebanon provide T access to downtown with more moderate rents. For renters who prioritize space, parking, and suburban amenities, Ross Township, Bethel Park, and Monroeville offer garden style complexes at moderate rates.
By defining priorities around budget, location, and amenities, renters can find a one bedroom apartment that fits their needs. The Pittsburgh region offers options across the price spectrum, making it possible to find the right fit at almost any budget.