For renters who want to be at the center of Pittsburgh’s energy, the Strip District offers one of the most dynamic urban living experiences in the city. Located just northeast of downtown along the Allegheny River, this historic neighborhood has transformed from a wholesale produce terminal into a residential destination with luxury apartment buildings, acclaimed restaurants, specialty food markets, and unique retail. The Strip District is steps from downtown, the North Shore, and Lawrenceville, making it a prime location for professionals who want walkability and convenience.
This guide covers the best apartments near the Strip District, with insights on rental prices, building types, amenities, and lifestyle considerations.
Overview of the Strip District
The Strip District is defined by its commercial corridor along Penn Avenue and Smallman Street, where specialty food markets, fish markets, produce stands, and Italian grocery stores have operated for decades. In recent years, the neighborhood has seen significant new development, including luxury apartment buildings, the Terminal mixed use project, and expanded riverfront access.
Key features of the Strip District include:
- The Terminal. A newly developed mixed use project built along the historic produce terminal building, featuring a grocery store, restaurants, retail shops, and office space.
- Smallman Street. The heart of the Strip District’s traditional commercial activity, with specialty food markets, fish markets, and Italian grocery stores.
- Penn Avenue. A growing collection of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and retail.
- Three Rivers Heritage Trail. A paved riverfront trail along the Allegheny River, connecting the Strip District to downtown, the North Shore, and Lawrenceville.
- Proximity to downtown. A 10 to 15 minute walk across the 16th Street Bridge or along Liberty Avenue.
The Strip District is busiest on weekend mornings, when visitors from across the region come to shop at the terminal markets. For residents, this means vibrant street life but also crowded sidewalks and limited street parking.
Best Apartments in the Strip District
Luxury High Rises
The Strip District has several luxury apartment buildings that offer high end finishes, comprehensive amenities, and river or city views. These buildings are the most desirable in the neighborhood and command the highest rents.
Typical units. Studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom layouts with floor to ceiling windows, quartz or granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood flooring.
Amenities. Fitness centers, roof terraces with river or skyline views, swimming pools, concierge services, clubrooms, business centers, dog washing stations, and attached garage parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,700 to $2,300 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,200 to $3,000. Parking adds $100 to $200 per month.
Best for. Professionals who want luxury amenities, river views, and walking access to downtown. Renters who prioritize new construction and modern finishes.
Renovated Industrial Lofts
Some buildings in the Strip District are renovated industrial structures that retain original features such as exposed brick, high ceilings, and large windows. These units offer character not found in new construction.
Typical units. One bedroom and two bedroom layouts with exposed brick, concrete floors, and oversized windows.
Amenities. Varies by building. Some have fitness centers and roof access. Parking is typically available for a fee.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,600 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,000 to $2,800.
Best for. Renters who want character and industrial aesthetic with modern updates.
Converted Historic Buildings
A handful of older buildings in the Strip District have been converted into apartments. These are less common than luxury high rises but offer more moderate rents.
Typical units. One bedroom layouts in older buildings with basic finishes.
Amenities. Limited. Parking is typically street parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,300 to $1,700 per month. Inventory is limited.
Best for. Renters who want to live in the Strip District on a lower budget.
Neighborhoods Adjacent to the Strip District
Lower Lawrenceville
Lower Lawrenceville is adjacent to the Strip District, separated by the 16th Street Bridge. The neighborhood offers a similar urban character with more moderate rents.
Walkability to the Strip District. 5 to 10 minutes on foot or a short bike ride.
Rental market. One bedroom apartments range from $1,300 to $2,000 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,800 to $2,800. Units include renovated industrial lofts, row house conversions, and newer buildings.
Amenities. Butler Street provides acclaimed dining, bars, and boutiques. The Strip District is a short walk away.
Best for. Renters who want access to the Strip District and Lawrenceville’s dining scene at slightly lower rents.
Downtown
Downtown Pittsburgh is a 10 to 15 minute walk from the Strip District across the 16th Street Bridge or along Liberty Avenue.
Walkability to the Strip District. 10 to 15 minutes on foot.
Rental market. One bedroom apartments range from $1,800 to $2,500 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,500 to $3,500. Units are in high rise buildings with luxury amenities.
Best for. Professionals who work downtown and want walking access to both their office and the Strip District.
North Shore
The North Shore is a 10 to 15 minute walk from the Strip District via the 16th Street Bridge.
Walkability to the Strip District. 10 to 15 minutes on foot.
Rental market. One bedroom apartments range from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,000 to $2,800.
Best for. Renters who want river views and proximity to both downtown and the Strip District.
Rental Price Comparison
| Location | One Bedroom Rent | Two Bedroom Rent | Parking | Walk to Strip District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strip District (luxury) | $1,700-2,300 | $2,200-3,000 | Add $100-200 | 0-5 min |
| Strip District (lofts) | $1,600-2,200 | $2,000-2,800 | Add $100-200 | 0-5 min |
| Strip District (converted) | $1,300-1,700 | Limited | Street | 0-5 min |
| Lower Lawrenceville | $1,300-2,000 | $1,800-2,800 | Add $50-150 | 5-10 min |
| Downtown | $1,800-2,500 | $2,500-3,500 | Add $150-200 | 10-15 min |
| North Shore | $1,500-2,200 | $2,000-2,800 | Add $100-200 | 10-15 min |
Amenities to Look For
Garage Parking
Street parking in the Strip District is limited and metered. On weekends, the neighborhood is crowded with visitors, making street parking even more challenging. Garage parking is a valuable amenity. Most luxury buildings offer attached garage parking for $100 to $200 per month.
Roof Terrace
Roof terraces with river and city views are common in Strip District luxury buildings. These spaces provide outdoor entertainment areas and places to relax without leaving the building.
Fitness Center
A fitness center eliminates the need for a separate gym membership. Most luxury buildings have fitness centers with modern equipment.
Concierge and Package Receiving
Concierge services handle package delivery, a valuable amenity in a neighborhood where package theft can be a concern.
Pet Amenities
Dog washing stations and pet waste stations are common in newer buildings. The riverfront trail provides excellent dog walking.
Living in the Strip District: Lifestyle Considerations
Weekend Crowds
The Strip District is a regional destination. On weekend mornings, the neighborhood is crowded with visitors. Sidewalks can be packed, particularly along Smallman Street. Residents should be comfortable with this level of activity or choose a building away from the busiest blocks.
Walkability
The Strip District is highly walkable. Residents can walk to downtown, the North Shore, and Lawrenceville. The riverfront trail provides car free walking, running, and biking.
Dining and Shopping
Residents have access to the Strip District’s unique food markets, restaurants, and shops. A full service grocery store is within the neighborhood. Dining options range from casual to upscale.
Noise
The Strip District is active during the day and on weekend mornings. Nighttime noise is generally low, as the neighborhood has limited late night nightlife. However, buildings near the river may hear train noise.
Questions to Ask About Strip District Apartments
Is garage parking included or available? Street parking is not a reliable option. Confirm parking availability and cost.
How noisy is the building at night? Visit the building on a weekday evening and weekend morning to assess noise levels.
Are there grocery stores within walking distance? The Strip District has a full service grocery store. Confirm its location relative to the building.
What is the walk time to downtown? If you work downtown, the walk across the 16th Street Bridge takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Are there pet restrictions? Many buildings are pet friendly but have breed and weight restrictions.
Making the Decision
The Strip District offers one of Pittsburgh’s most exciting urban living experiences. For renters who want to be steps from downtown, the riverfront, and some of the city’s best food markets, it is an excellent choice.
For renters who prioritize luxury amenities and new construction, the Strip District’s luxury high rises offer one bedroom units from $1,700 to $2,300 with garage parking, roof terraces, and fitness centers.
For renters who want industrial character at moderate rents, Lower Lawrenceville offers one bedroom units from $1,300 to $2,000 with a 5 to 10 minute walk to the Strip District.
For renters on a tighter budget who still want proximity, converted buildings in the Strip District may offer one bedroom units under $1,700, though inventory is limited.
By prioritizing parking, walkability, and tolerance for weekend crowds, renters can find an apartment that puts them at the center of Pittsburgh’s most dynamic neighborhood. For many renters, the energy and convenience of the Strip District are well worth the premium.