For renters seeking a quiet, suburban feel with easy access to Pittsburgh, Edgewood offers a practical option that balances residential character with city convenience. Located just 7 miles east of downtown, this borough of roughly 3,000 residents provides a 15 to 20 minute commute to the city while maintaining rental rates that are more moderate than many city neighborhoods. Edgewood’s tree lined streets, well kept homes, and proximity to the East Busway make it an attractive choice for renters who want space and quiet without sacrificing accessibility.
This guide covers apartments in Edgewood, with insights on rental prices, the East Busway, housing types, and lifestyle considerations.
Overview of Edgewood
Edgewood is a small borough located east of Pittsburgh, bordered by Swissvale to the east, Wilkinsburg to the south, and Regent Square to the west. The borough developed as a streetcar suburb in the early 20th century and retains much of its historic character. Edgewood is primarily residential, with tree lined streets, well maintained homes, and a quiet atmosphere.
Key features of Edgewood include:
- Edgewood Town Centre. A shopping center located on the border of Edgewood and Swissvale, featuring a grocery store, pharmacy, bank, and dining options.
- Proximity to the East Busway. The East Busway’s Swissvale station is a short drive or bus ride away, providing rapid transit to downtown.
- Proximity to Regent Square. Adjacent Regent Square provides additional dining and shopping options within walking distance.
- Proximity to Frick Park. The park’s eastern entrance is a short drive or bike ride away.
- Quiet residential character. Edgewood has very little commercial activity within its boundaries, which reduces traffic and noise.
Edgewood is more affordable than its neighbor Regent Square and comparable to Swissvale. The borough has a stable, established character with a mix of long term residents and renters.
Rental Market in Edgewood
Converted Single Family Homes
A significant portion of Edgewood’s rental inventory consists of converted single family homes. These properties offer generous square footage, character features, and a residential setting.
Typical units. One, two, and three bedroom layouts in converted homes. Units often retain original features such as hardwood floors, high ceilings, built in cabinetry, and front porches.
Amenities. Varies. Off street parking is available at some properties. Laundry may be in unit or on site. Window air conditioning is standard.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Three bedroom units range from $1,300 to $1,800.
Best for. Renters who want space, character, and a quiet residential setting.
Smaller Apartment Buildings
Edgewood has a handful of smaller apartment buildings, typically ranging from four to twelve units. These buildings offer functional housing in the borough’s residential areas.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts.
Amenities. Limited. Off street parking may be available.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $750 to $1,100 per month. Two bedroom units range from $950 to $1,400.
Best for. Renters who want a simple, functional apartment in a quiet neighborhood.
Garden Style Apartments
Edgewood has a limited number of garden style apartment complexes, primarily located near the border with Swissvale. These properties offer dedicated parking and on site maintenance.
Typical units. One and two bedroom layouts.
Amenities. Off street parking, on site laundry, and basic amenities.
Rental prices. One bedroom units range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,000 to $1,500.
Best for. Renters who want dedicated parking and professional management.
Rental Price Comparison: Edgewood vs. Neighbors
| Neighborhood | One Bedroom Rent | Two Bedroom Rent | Character | Walk to Shopping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edgewood | $750-1,200 | $950-1,500 | Quiet, suburban | 5-10 min |
| Regent Square | $1,000-1,500 | $1,300-1,900 | Historic, community | 0-5 min |
| Swissvale | $700-1,000 | $900-1,300 | Affordable, transit | 10-15 min |
| Wilkinsburg | $600-1,100 | $800-1,400 | Urban, transitioning | 10-15 min |
| Squirrel Hill | $1,200-1,800 | $1,600-2,500 | Walkable, commercial | 0-5 min |
Edgewood is more affordable than Regent Square and Squirrel Hill, with one bedroom rents often $200 to $500 lower per month. It is comparable to Swissvale but offers a quieter, more residential character.
The East Busway
While Edgewood does not have its own East Busway station, the Swissvale station is a short drive or bus ride away. The East Busway provides rapid transit to downtown with travel times of 10 to 15 minutes.
Access from Edgewood. The Swissvale station is approximately 1 to 2 miles from most Edgewood apartments. Residents can drive and park at the station’s park and ride lot, take a local bus, or bike to the station.
Travel time. 10 to 15 minutes from the Swissvale station to downtown.
Cost. A monthly pass costs $97.50, significantly less than downtown parking.
For renters who work downtown, using the East Busway from the Swissvale station is a practical option.
Edgewood Town Centre
The Edgewood Town Centre is a shopping center located on the border of Edgewood and Swissvale, at the intersection of Penn Avenue and Braddock Avenue. The center provides essential services within walking distance of many Edgewood apartments.
Grocery. A full service grocery store anchors the center.
Pharmacy. A pharmacy is located in the center.
Banking. A bank branch is located in the center.
Dining. Several fast casual and sit down dining options are available.
Other services. Additional retail and services are located in the center.
For Edgewood residents, having these amenities within walking distance is a significant convenience.
Proximity to Regent Square and Frick Park
Edgewood is adjacent to Regent Square, which has a small commercial district with a coffee shop, restaurants, and local businesses. The walk from Edgewood to Regent Square’s business district takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Frick Park’s eastern entrance is a short drive or bike ride from Edgewood. The park provides over 10 miles of hiking and walking trails, athletic fields, and the Frick Environmental Center.
Living in Edgewood: Lifestyle Considerations
Quiet Residential Character
Edgewood is one of the quieter suburbs close to the city. The borough has very little commercial activity within its boundaries, which means low traffic volumes and peaceful residential streets. Weekend nights are very quiet.
Walkability
Walkability in Edgewood varies by location. Apartments near the Edgewood Town Centre have walkable access to grocery and pharmacy. Apartments deeper in the residential areas are less walkable but offer more quiet.
Parking
Parking in Edgewood is generally easier than in city neighborhoods. Street parking is available. Many properties have off street parking, either in driveways or small lots.
Transit
While Edgewood does not have its own East Busway station, local bus routes serve the borough. The 61B bus runs along Penn Avenue, providing service to downtown via the busway. The Swissvale station is a short drive away for those who prefer to park and ride.
Schools
For renters with children, Edgewood is served by the Woodland Hills School District. Families should evaluate the district’s offerings in the context of their educational priorities.
Types of Renters in Edgewood
Edgewood attracts a mix of renters:
- Downtown commuters who use the East Busway or drive.
- Young professionals who want a quiet residential setting near the city.
- Families who want space, safety, and proximity to Frick Park.
- Graduate students who want affordable housing near the East End.
- Long time residents who have lived in the borough for years.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
How far is the walk to the Edgewood Town Centre? The shopping center is a key amenity. Confirm the walking distance from the apartment.
Is off street parking available? Street parking is generally available, but off street parking adds convenience.
What is the condition of the building and unit? Older buildings vary in condition. Inspect carefully.
How do you access the East Busway? Ask about the best way to reach the Swissvale station from the apartment.
What utilities are included? Some older buildings include water, sewer, and trash.
Who Should Consider Edgewood
Edgewood is best suited for renters who:
- Want a quiet, residential setting close to the city.
- Need access to the East Busway for downtown commuting.
- Value walkable access to a grocery store and pharmacy.
- Prefer a suburban feel over urban density.
- Are willing to accept older buildings with basic finishes.
- Want lower rents than Regent Square or Squirrel Hill.
Making the Decision
Edgewood offers a quiet, residential alternative to the denser neighborhoods of the East End. For renters who want a suburban feel with easy access to downtown, the borough provides a practical option.
One bedroom rents from $750 to $1,200 and two bedroom rents from $950 to $1,500 are more affordable than Regent Square and Squirrel Hill, while still providing proximity to the East Busway, grocery shopping, and Frick Park.
The trade offs are a quieter environment with fewer dining and nightlife options. For renters who prioritize peace and quiet, this is an advantage. For those who want walkable nightlife, Edgewood may feel too sleepy.
By prioritizing proximity to the East Busway, the Edgewood Town Centre, and Frick Park, renters can find an apartment in Edgewood that offers a balanced lifestyle. The borough’s stability, safety, and convenience make it a solid choice for many renters.