For healthcare professionals, medical residents, and support staff working at Pittsburgh’s hospitals, the location of an apartment can be the difference between a manageable daily routine and a stressful commute. The city’s major medical centers, including UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Allegheny General Hospital, and Jefferson Hospital, are concentrated in several districts. Each area has its own rental market with distinct price points and lifestyle characteristics.
This guide covers the best neighborhoods for renting near Pittsburgh’s major hospitals, with insights on commute times, rental prices, and lifestyle factors for healthcare workers.
Overview of Pittsburgh’s Hospital Districts
Pittsburgh’s major hospitals are located in several key areas. Oakland is the primary medical hub, home to UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Montefiore, Magee-Womens Hospital, and the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. Shadyside has UPMC Shadyside and the Hillman Cancer Center. Lawrenceville is home to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital. The North Shore has Allegheny General Hospital. The South Hills has Jefferson Hospital and St. Clair Hospital.
Each hospital district has its own character, and the best neighborhoods for commuting vary accordingly.
Oakland Hospital District
Oakland is the largest medical hub in Pittsburgh, with multiple hospitals, research facilities, and medical offices concentrated in a dense area. Thousands of healthcare professionals work in this district daily.
Apartments in Oakland
Living in Oakland provides the shortest commute for healthcare workers. One bedroom apartments typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,400 to $2,000. Units in Central Oakland, closest to the hospitals, command the highest rents. North Oakland and South Oakland offer more moderate options.
Oakland apartments are generally in older buildings, often with character features such as hardwood floors and high ceilings. Parking is limited, and many residents rely on walking or transit. The neighborhood has a high concentration of students, which creates an energetic atmosphere but also higher noise levels.
Alternative Nearby Neighborhoods
For healthcare workers who want to be close to Oakland without living in the dense student environment, adjacent neighborhoods offer good alternatives.
Shadyside is adjacent to Oakland and home to UPMC Shadyside. One bedroom apartments range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. The neighborhood offers a walkable commercial district along Walnut Street with boutique shopping and dining. The commute to Oakland hospitals takes 5 to 10 minutes by car or bus.
Squirrel Hill is a 5 to 10 minute drive or bus ride from Oakland. One bedroom apartments range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. The neighborhood offers a complete commercial district with grocery stores, pharmacies, and dining. Frick Park provides extensive trails and green space.
Greenfield is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Oakland. One bedroom apartments range from $800 to $1,200 per month. The neighborhood offers one of the most affordable options near Oakland with a residential character. The commute to Oakland is short via local streets.
Point Breeze is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Oakland. One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. The neighborhood offers quiet, tree lined streets and historic architecture.
UPMC Shadyside Hospital
UPMC Shadyside and the Hillman Cancer Center are located in the Shadyside neighborhood, adjacent to the commercial district along Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue.
Apartments in Shadyside
Living in Shadyside puts healthcare workers within walking distance of UPMC Shadyside. One bedroom apartments typically range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,800 to $3,000. Units in newer luxury buildings near Walnut Street command the highest rates. Older converted homes offer more moderate options.
Shadyside offers a polished urban environment with walkable shopping, dining, and services. Parking can be challenging near the commercial district, but many buildings offer off street parking for a fee.
Alternative Nearby Neighborhoods
Highland Park is a 5 to 10 minute drive from UPMC Shadyside. One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,400 per month. The neighborhood offers a quiet, residential character and access to Highland Park. The Bryant Street business district provides basic services.
East Liberty is a 5 to 10 minute drive from UPMC Shadyside. One bedroom apartments range from $1,000 to $1,400 in older buildings and $1,500 to $2,200 in newer luxury buildings. The neighborhood has a revitalized commercial district with a grocery store, cinema, and dining.
Friendship is adjacent to Shadyside. One bedroom apartments range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. The neighborhood offers a quiet, residential character with tree lined streets and historic homes.
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh (Lawrenceville)
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh is located in Lawrenceville, a neighborhood that has become increasingly popular for its dining scene and creative character.
Apartments in Lawrenceville
Living in Lawrenceville provides a walking commute to Children’s Hospital. One bedroom apartments typically range from $1,300 to $2,000 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,800 to $2,800. Units in renovated industrial buildings feature exposed brick and large windows.
Lawrenceville has a vibrant dining and nightlife scene along Butler Street. Parking can be challenging, so off street parking is valuable. The neighborhood appeals to healthcare workers who want to live in a trendy area with walkable amenities.
Alternative Nearby Neighborhoods
Bloomfield is adjacent to Lawrenceville and is known as Pittsburgh’s Little Italy. One bedroom apartments range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. The neighborhood offers a quieter character with a commercial district along Liberty Avenue. The commute to Children’s Hospital takes 5 to 10 minutes by car or bus.
Garfield is adjacent to Lawrenceville. One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,400 per month. The neighborhood is emerging, with new businesses opening along Penn Avenue. Rental rates are more moderate than Lawrenceville.
Upper Lawrenceville offers more moderate rents than Lower and Central Lawrenceville. One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. The neighborhood is quieter and less developed but still within walking distance of the hospital.
Allegheny General Hospital (North Shore)
Allegheny General Hospital is located on the North Shore, across the Allegheny River from downtown. The area has seen significant residential development in recent years.
Apartments on the North Shore
Living on the North Shore provides a walking commute to Allegheny General. One bedroom apartments typically range from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $2,000 to $2,800. Units are in newer luxury buildings with river or city views, high end finishes, and amenities such as fitness centers and roof terraces. Parking is available in garages for an additional $100 to $200 per month.
The North Shore offers walking access to downtown across the Andy Warhol or Roberto Clemente bridges, as well as to PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, and the riverfront trails.
Alternative Nearby Neighborhoods
Bellevue is a 10 to 15 minute drive from Allegheny General. One bedroom apartments range from $800 to $1,200 per month. The Lincoln Avenue business district provides walkable access to a grocery store, pharmacy, and dining. The drive via Route 65 and the McKees Rocks Bridge is straightforward.
Millvale is a 10 minute drive from Allegheny General. One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,200 per month. The neighborhood has an emerging commercial district and a short commute across the 31st Street Bridge.
Deutschtown is a residential neighborhood adjacent to the North Shore. One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,300 per month. The area is less developed than the North Shore but offers lower rents within walking distance of Allegheny General.
Jefferson Hospital (South Hills)
Jefferson Hospital is located in the South Hills, near the border of Jefferson Hills and West Mifflin. The area has a suburban character with garden style apartment complexes and townhomes.
Apartments Near Jefferson Hospital
The best options near Jefferson Hospital are in West Mifflin, Pleasant Hills, and Jefferson Hills. One bedroom apartments in these suburbs typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,000 to $1,500. Units are in garden style complexes with dedicated parking and amenities such as pools and fitness centers.
These suburbs offer quiet, residential environments with good access to retail and South Park. The commute to Jefferson Hospital is typically 5 to 15 minutes depending on location.
Alternative Nearby Communities
Bethel Park is a 10 to 15 minute drive from Jefferson Hospital. One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. The T provides downtown access for those who commute to other hospitals.
Baldwin is a 10 to 15 minute drive from Jefferson Hospital. One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,300 per month. The area offers affordable suburban living with good access to retail.
St. Clair Hospital (South Hills)
St. Clair Hospital is located in Mt. Lebanon, one of the South Hills’ most desirable communities. The hospital is near the intersection of Route 19 and Bower Hill Road.
Apartments Near St. Clair Hospital
The best options near St. Clair Hospital are in Mt. Lebanon, Dormont, and Bethel Park. Mt. Lebanon offers one bedroom apartments ranging from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. Dormont offers more moderate rents from $900 to $1,300 per month. Bethel Park offers one bedroom apartments from $1,100 to $1,600 per month.
These communities provide T light rail access to downtown for healthcare workers who split time between hospitals. The area has good parks and schools.
Commute and Shift Considerations
Parking at Hospitals
Parking is a significant consideration for healthcare professionals. Hospital parking is often expensive, with monthly rates typically ranging from $50 to $150 depending on the facility and the employee’s status. Some hospitals offer subsidized parking or transit passes. Living within walking distance or on a direct bus or T line can eliminate this cost.
Shift Work and Transit
For healthcare workers with early morning, late night, or rotating shifts, transit availability is a factor. The T light rail runs until late but has reduced frequency after midnight. Bus service also varies by route. If you work overnight shifts, confirm that transit options align with your schedule or plan to drive.
On-Call Requirements
For physicians and certain staff with on-call requirements, living close to the hospital is a significant advantage. Oakland, Shadyside, and Lawrenceville offer the closest housing options to the major hospitals in those districts. The premium rent for these neighborhoods may be justified by the reduced response time for on-call situations.
Price Comparison by Hospital District
| Hospital District | Best Neighborhood | One Bedroom Rent | Commute Time | Transit Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oakland | Oakland | $1,000-1,500 | Walk | Bus |
| Oakland | Shadyside | $1,400-2,200 | 5-10 min | Bus |
| Oakland | Greenfield | $800-1,200 | 5-10 min | Bus |
| UPMC Shadyside | Shadyside | $1,400-2,200 | Walk | Bus |
| UPMC Shadyside | Highland Park | $900-1,400 | 5-10 min | Bus |
| Children’s Hospital | Lawrenceville | $1,300-2,000 | Walk | Bus |
| Children’s Hospital | Bloomfield | $1,000-1,500 | 5-10 min | Bus |
| Allegheny General | North Shore | $1,500-2,200 | Walk | Bus |
| Allegheny General | Bellevue | $800-1,200 | 10-15 min | Bus |
| Jefferson Hospital | West Mifflin | $800-1,200 | 5-15 min | Limited |
| St. Clair Hospital | Dormont | $900-1,300 | 10-15 min | T |
Tips for Healthcare Renters
Consider Your Shift
If you work standard day shifts, transit is a viable option. If you work overnight or evening shifts, driving may be more reliable. Plan your housing search based on your typical schedule.
Factor in Parking Costs
When comparing apartments, include parking costs in your calculation. A $1,200 apartment with free parking may be more economical than a $1,000 apartment with a $200 monthly parking bill. Hospital parking is also a factor if you drive to work.
Look for Short-Term Leases
Medical residents and traveling healthcare professionals may need shorter lease terms. Some apartments near hospitals offer flexible leases. Ask about month-to-month or six month options when searching.
Check for Noise
Oakland and Lawrenceville have active nightlife and student populations. If you work early shifts or need quiet for daytime sleep after night shifts, consider neighborhoods that are quieter, such as Greenfield, Point Breeze, or Dormont.
Making the Decision
The best neighborhood for healthcare professionals depends on your hospital, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
For those working in Oakland, Greenfield and Shadyside offer a balance of affordability and proximity. For UPMC Shadyside employees, living in Shadyside itself provides a walking commute to work. For Children’s Hospital staff, Lawrenceville and Bloomfield offer convenience and character. For Allegheny General workers, the North Shore provides a walking commute, while Bellevue offers more affordable options. For South Hills hospital employees, Dormont, Bethel Park, and West Mifflin provide suburban living with reasonable commutes.
By prioritizing your hospital location, shift schedule, and budget, you can find an apartment that makes your daily routine manageable and allows you to focus on your vital work. The Pittsburgh region offers options across price points, making it possible to live close to the hospital whether you are a medical resident on a tight budget or an attending physician seeking a premium neighborhood.