For renters seeking affordable housing near the East End’s most popular neighborhoods, Garfield offers an emerging option that is still under the radar. Located between East Liberty, Friendship, and Bloomfield, this residential neighborhood has seen gradual revitalization along its Penn Avenue commercial corridor. While not as polished as neighboring areas, Garfield provides lower rents, a growing arts scene, and easy access to the amenities of adjacent neighborhoods.
This guide covers apartments in Garfield, with insights on rental prices, the Penn Avenue corridor, revitalization trends, and lifestyle considerations for renters willing to look beyond conventional options.
Overview of Garfield
Garfield is located in the eastern part of Pittsburgh, bordered by East Liberty to the west, Friendship to the south, and Bloomfield to the southwest. The neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of single family homes, row houses, and small apartment buildings. The commercial corridor along Penn Avenue has been a focus of revitalization efforts, with new businesses opening in recent years.
Key features of Garfield include:
- Penn Avenue corridor. A growing collection of art galleries, studios, restaurants, and shops concentrated along Penn Avenue in the neighborhood’s western section.
- Proximity to East Liberty. A 5 to 10 minute walk to East Liberty’s commercial district, including a grocery store, cinema, and dining.
- Proximity to Friendship and Bloomfield. Adjacent neighborhoods provide additional amenities within walking distance.
- Bus transit. Bus routes along Penn Avenue and Friendship Avenue connect to downtown, Oakland, and other neighborhoods.
- Garfield Community Center. A hub for neighborhood programs and events.
Garfield is a neighborhood in transition. Some blocks have seen significant investment, while others remain blighted. The neighborhood is generally considered up and coming, with lower crime rates than in the past but still with challenges. Renters should visit specific blocks before committing.
Rental Market in Garfield
Converted Row Houses and Small Apartment Buildings
The majority of Garfield’s rental inventory consists of converted row houses and small apartment buildings. These properties offer basic functional housing at low rents.
Typical units. One, two, and three bedroom layouts. Square footage is often generous. Many units retain original features such as hardwood floors and high ceilings.
Amenities. Limited. Off street parking is rare. Laundry may be on site. Window air conditioning is standard.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $700 to $1,000 per month. Two bedroom units range from $900 to $1,300 per month. Three bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,600.
Best for. Renters who prioritize low rent and are willing to accept basic conditions.
Renovated Properties
As revitalization has progressed, some properties in Garfield have been renovated. These units offer modern finishes and updates while still being more affordable than comparable units in East Liberty or Bloomfield.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts with updated kitchens and bathrooms.
Amenities. Varies. Some have off street parking. In unit laundry is available in some renovated units.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $900 to $1,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,600.
Best for. Renters who want updated features at lower prices than neighboring areas.
Single Family Home Rentals
Some single family homes in Garfield are available for rent. These offer the most space and often include yards and off street parking.
Typical units. Two, three, and four bedroom homes.
Amenities. Yards, off street parking, and basements.
Rental prices. Two bedroom homes range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Three bedroom homes range from $1,300 to $1,800.
Best for. Families or roommates seeking space and a yard at low rents.
Rental Price Comparison: Garfield vs. Neighbors
| Neighborhood | One Bedroom Rent | Two Bedroom Rent | Character | Walk to Grocery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garfield | $700-1,200 | $900-1,600 | Emerging, affordable | 10-15 min |
| East Liberty | $900-2,200 | $1,200-2,800 | Revitalized, mixed | 0-5 min |
| Bloomfield | $900-1,400 | $1,200-1,800 | Little Italy, stable | 5-10 min |
| Friendship | $900-1,400 | $1,200-1,800 | Historic, quiet | 10-15 min |
Garfield is significantly more affordable than East Liberty and comparable to Bloomfield and Friendship for older housing stock. The lowest rents in the East End are found in Garfield.
The Penn Avenue Corridor
Garfield’s Penn Avenue commercial corridor has been the focus of revitalization efforts. The corridor is not as developed as East Liberty’s Penn Avenue, but it has a growing collection of businesses.
Art Galleries and Studios
The corridor is known for its concentration of art galleries and artist studios. Several galleries operate in the neighborhood, and First Friday events draw visitors.
Restaurants and Cafes
A handful of restaurants and cafes have opened along the corridor. These are concentrated in the western section near the East Liberty border.
Community Organizations
The Garfield Community Center and other organizations offer programs and events. The neighborhood has an active community development corporation focused on revitalization.
Revitalization Status
The Penn Avenue corridor is still emerging. Some blocks have multiple active businesses, while others have vacant storefronts. The neighborhood is not yet a destination like Lawrenceville or East Liberty, but it has potential.
Living in Garfield: Lifestyle Considerations
Affordability
Garfield’s primary advantage is affordability. One bedroom rents under $1,000 and two bedroom rents under $1,300 are common, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in the East End.
Proximity to Amenities
Garfield is within walking distance of East Liberty’s grocery store, cinema, and restaurants. A 10 to 15 minute walk puts you in East Liberty’s commercial core. Friendship and Bloomfield are also within walking distance.
Revitalization in Progress
Garfield is still a neighborhood in transition. Some blocks are well maintained, while others show signs of disinvestment. Crime rates are higher than in Friendship or Bloomfield but have improved over time. Renters should visit the specific block of any apartment they are considering.
Parking
Parking in Garfield is generally easier than in East Liberty, Shadyside, or Bloomfield. Street parking is typically available. Some properties have off street parking.
Walkability
The neighborhood’s walkability varies significantly by location. Apartments near Penn Avenue have better access to commercial amenities. Apartments deeper into the residential areas are quieter but less walkable.
Transit
Bus routes along Penn Avenue and Friendship Avenue provide access to downtown, Oakland, and other neighborhoods. The East Liberty busway station is a 10 to 15 minute walk from much of Garfield.
Types of Renters in Garfield
Garfield attracts a mix of renters:
- Budget conscious renters who want to live in the East End at the lowest possible cost.
- Artists and creatives drawn by affordable studio space and the gallery scene.
- Students who want lower rents than Oakland.
- Long time residents who have lived in the neighborhood for years.
- First time renters building rental history.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
What is the condition of the building and unit? Older buildings vary significantly in condition. Inspect carefully for signs of water damage, pest issues, and mechanical problems.
Is off street parking available? Street parking is generally available, but off street parking is a convenience. Ask about availability.
How far is the walk to the grocery store? East Liberty’s grocery store is a key amenity. Confirm the walking distance from the apartment.
What is the noise level like on the block? Visit at different times of day, including evening and weekend, to assess activity and noise.
What improvements has the landlord made? Ask about recent renovations to the unit and building.
Who Should Consider Garfield
Garfield is best suited for renters who:
- Prioritize low rent above all other factors.
- Are willing to live in a neighborhood in transition.
- Want to be within walking distance of East Liberty’s amenities.
- Do not require luxury amenities or modern finishes.
- Are comfortable with variable block by block conditions.
- Have time to visit and evaluate specific properties.
Making the Decision
Garfield offers some of the lowest rents in Pittsburgh’s East End. For renters on a tight budget who want to be near East Liberty, Shadyside, and Bloomfield, it is worth considering. One bedroom rents under $1,000 and two bedroom rents under $1,300 are common, with savings of thousands of dollars per year compared to nearby neighborhoods.
The trade offs are real: a neighborhood in transition, variable housing conditions, and less polished commercial amenities. But for renters who are willing to evaluate properties carefully and tolerate some uncertainty, Garfield provides an affordable entry point to one of Pittsburgh’s most desirable parts of the city.
By visiting specific blocks, inspecting properties thoroughly, and understanding the neighborhood’s current state, renters can find a good value in Garfield. The neighborhood’s trajectory is positive, and those who rent now may benefit from continued revitalization in the coming years.