For renters seeking modern apartments with amenities, walkable access to dining and shopping, and proximity to the East End’s employment centers, East Liberty has become one of Pittsburgh’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Once a struggling commercial district, East Liberty has undergone significant revitalization over the past two decades. New apartment buildings, a restored cinema, acclaimed restaurants, and a full service grocery store have transformed the area into a desirable place to live.
This guide covers apartments in East Liberty, with insights on rental prices, new developments, amenities, and lifestyle considerations.
Overview of East Liberty
East Liberty is located in the eastern part of Pittsburgh, bordered by Shadyside to the west, Highland Park to the north, and Point Breeze to the south. The neighborhood’s main commercial corridors are Penn Avenue and Highland Avenue.
Key features of East Liberty include:
- East Liberty busway. The East Busway provides rapid transit to downtown with travel times of 10 to 15 minutes.
- Whole Foods Market. A full service grocery store anchors the neighborhood’s retail district.
- The East Liberty Cinema. A restored historic cinema showing independent and mainstream films.
- Ace Hotel. A boutique hotel with a restaurant and bar that draws visitors and residents.
- Penn Avenue commercial corridor. A growing collection of restaurants, shops, and services.
- Bakery Square. A mixed use development with Google offices, retail, and apartments adjacent to East Liberty.
East Liberty is a neighborhood in transition. New developments sit alongside older buildings, and the population has grown as more renters have discovered the area. The neighborhood has a mix of long term residents and newcomers.
Rental Market in East Liberty
New Luxury Apartment Buildings
East Liberty has seen the construction of several luxury apartment buildings in recent years. These properties offer modern finishes, comprehensive amenities, and professional management.
Typical units. Studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom layouts with modern finishes including quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood flooring.
Amenities. Fitness centers, roof terraces, clubrooms, business centers, dog washing stations, and attached garage parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,000 to $2,800 per month. Parking adds $50 to $150 per month.
Best for. Renters who prioritize new construction, modern amenities, and walkable access to East Liberty’s retail district.
Renovated Historic Buildings
Several older buildings in East Liberty have been renovated into modern apartments. These properties retain some historic character while offering updated finishes.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts with updated kitchens and bathrooms.
Amenities. Varies. Some have fitness centers and parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,600 to $2,200.
Best for. Renters who want a balance of character and modern updates at moderate rents.
Older Apartment Buildings
East Liberty still has older apartment buildings that have not been substantially renovated. These offer the lowest rents in the neighborhood.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts with basic finishes.
Amenities. Limited. Laundry may be on site. Window air conditioning. Street parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $900 to $1,300 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,700.
Best for. Renters on a budget who want to be in East Liberty.
Bakery Square
Bakery Square is a mixed use development located on the border of East Liberty and Larimer. The development includes luxury apartments, Google offices, retail, and dining.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts with high end finishes.
Amenities. Fitness center, roof terrace, concierge, attached parking.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $1,600 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,100 to $2,800.
Best for. Tech workers employed at Bakery Square and renters who want a live work play environment.
Rental Price Comparison: East Liberty vs. Neighbors
| Neighborhood | One Bedroom Rent (New) | One Bedroom Rent (Older) | Two Bedroom Rent (New) | Two Bedroom Rent (Older) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Liberty | $1,500-2,200 | $900-1,300 | $2,000-2,800 | $1,200-1,700 |
| Shadyside | $1,600-2,200 | $1,200-1,700 | $2,000-3,000 | $1,600-2,200 |
| Friendship | N/A | $900-1,400 | N/A | $1,200-1,800 |
| Highland Park | N/A | $900-1,400 | N/A | $1,200-1,800 |
East Liberty’s newer luxury buildings are comparable in price to Shadyside. However, East Liberty’s older buildings offer more affordable options, with one bedroom rents under $1,300.
Walkability and Amenities
East Liberty has become one of Pittsburgh’s most walkable neighborhoods outside of downtown.
Grocery Access
A Whole Foods Market is located on Penn Avenue, providing walkable access to fresh food for residents in the neighborhood’s core.
Dining
East Liberty has a growing restaurant scene. Acclaimed restaurants, casual dining, and fast casual options are all within walking distance. The Ace Hotel’s restaurant and bar is a popular gathering spot.
Cinema
The East Liberty Cinema shows independent and mainstream films. For residents who enjoy movies, having a theater within walking distance is a significant amenity.
Shopping
Retail along Penn Avenue and Highland Avenue includes clothing stores, home goods, and specialty shops. Additional retail is available in nearby Shadyside.
East Liberty Busway
The East Busway is a significant transit asset. The East Liberty station provides rapid transit to downtown with travel times of 10 to 15 minutes. For downtown commuters, the busway eliminates parking costs and reduces commute stress.
Living in East Liberty: Lifestyle Considerations
Revitalization in Progress
East Liberty is still a neighborhood in transition. New developments sit alongside vacant storefronts and older buildings. The neighborhood is generally safe, but some blocks are more developed than others. Renters should visit the specific block of any apartment they are considering.
Walkability
The neighborhood’s core around Penn Avenue and Highland Avenue is highly walkable. Residents can walk to the grocery store, cinema, restaurants, and the busway station. Areas farther from the core are less walkable.
Parking
Parking in East Liberty is easier than in Shadyside but more challenging than in outlying neighborhoods. Newer buildings offer garage parking for a fee. Street parking is available but can be competitive near the commercial core.
Noise
East Liberty is active during the day but quiets down at night. The neighborhood has limited late night nightlife, so noise levels are generally moderate.
Proximity to Shadyside and Friendship
East Liberty is adjacent to Shadyside and Friendship, providing easy access to additional dining, shopping, and services. A 10 to 15 minute walk puts you in Shadyside’s Walnut Street commercial district.
Types of Renters in East Liberty
East Liberty attracts a diverse mix of renters:
- Young professionals who want modern apartments and walkable amenities.
- Tech workers employed at Bakery Square.
- Medical residents who want a short commute to nearby hospitals.
- Downtown commuters who use the East Busway.
- Long time residents who have lived in the neighborhood for years.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
Is the building new or renovated? New construction offers modern finishes and amenities. Renovated buildings offer character with updates. Older buildings offer lower rents.
How far is the walk to the busway station? The East Busway is a major advantage for downtown commuters. Confirm the walking distance.
Is parking included or available? Newer buildings have garage parking for a fee. Older buildings rely on street parking.
What is the noise level like on the block? Visit at different times of day to assess noise from traffic, construction, and neighbors.
What retail is within walking distance? The grocery store, cinema, and restaurants are key amenities. Confirm their distance from the apartment.
Making the Decision
East Liberty offers one of the most dynamic living environments in Pittsburgh’s East End. For renters who want modern apartments, walkable amenities, and rapid transit to downtown, the neighborhood’s new luxury buildings are an excellent choice.
For renters on a budget, East Liberty’s older buildings offer one bedroom rents under $1,300, significantly lower than new construction while still providing access to the neighborhood’s amenities.
The neighborhood’s revitalization has brought new energy, investment, and amenities. For renters who want to be part of a changing neighborhood with growing conveniences, East Liberty is an excellent choice.
By prioritizing your budget, desired amenities, and tolerance for ongoing development, you can find an apartment in East Liberty that fits your lifestyle. The neighborhood offers options from luxury high rises to affordable older buildings, making it accessible to a range of renters.