For renters exploring the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township and Wexford are two of the most prominent communities. Both offer suburban living with convenient access to the city, but they differ significantly in rental costs, housing stock, and overall character. This comparison examines rent prices, lifestyle factors, and practical considerations to help you decide which North Hills community fits your needs.
Rental Cost Comparison
The most notable difference between these two communities is rental pricing. While both have seen price fluctuations, their median rents and housing options appeal to different budget levels.
| Metric | Cranberry Township | Wexford |
|---|---|---|
| Median Rent | $1,925/month | $1,250/month |
| Studio | $1,503 | $785 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,530-$1,761 | $950-$1,692 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,755-$2,171 | $1,170-$2,032 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,100-$2,262 | $2,383+ |
Wexford shows a significantly lower median rent, while Cranberry Township’s median sits higher. Cranberry Township’s larger inventory of luxury apartments and newer construction tends to push average rents higher.
Community Character and Lifestyle
Wexford and Cranberry Township offer distinctly different suburban experiences. Wexford has a quieter, more established energy with well-maintained neighborhoods, good restaurants, and a community that feels settled and confident.
Cranberry Township, by contrast, feels like a small city in its own right. Shopping, restaurants, healthcare, and entertainment are all within a few miles. It’s convenient, active, and constantly growing. The township has become a commercial hub that draws visitors from other northern suburbs for shopping and dining.
Schools and Family Considerations
Both communities are served by highly regarded school districts. Wexford falls primarily within the Pine-Richland School District, while Cranberry Township is served by Seneca Valley School District.
Pine-Richland School District covers Wexford and parts of Gibsonia. It serves approximately 4,800 students and has a strong academic reputation with a quieter, more residential feel.
Seneca Valley School District serves Cranberry Township and surrounding areas. It is one of the larger districts in Pennsylvania, with approximately 7,500 students across multiple schools. The district is sought after for its robust academic and extracurricular offerings.
Commute and Accessibility
Both communities offer reasonable commutes to downtown Pittsburgh. Wexford provides a 20 to 25 minute drive via I-79, making it one of the closer northern suburbs to the city. Cranberry Township is slightly farther, with a 25 to 35 minute drive depending on location.
One advantage for both communities is that they avoid the tunnel congestion that affects commuters from the south and east.
Shopping and Amenities
Cranberry Township has developed into a significant commercial hub with extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options all within a few miles. Wexford offers a more established, quieter retail environment with good restaurants.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Wexford if you:
- Prefer a quieter, more established community with mature trees and well-maintained neighborhoods
- Want a shorter commute to Pittsburgh (20 to 25 minutes)
- Value the Pine-Richland School District
- Are looking for a community with a settled, confident character
- Don’t mind a tighter housing inventory
Choose Cranberry Township if you:
- Want convenience with shopping, dining, and entertainment within a few miles
- Prefer newer construction and modern amenities
- Value a school district with a deep bench of programs and extracurriculars
- Are comfortable with a larger, more transient community
- Want a wider variety of housing options at different price points
Both communities offer excellent suburban living with top-rated schools and convenient highway access. Wexford provides a quieter, more established character with a slightly shorter commute, while Cranberry Township offers extensive amenities, newer construction, and a more active community feel. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize tranquility and established neighborhoods or convenience and modern growth.