For remote workers, an apartment serves as both home and office. The ideal rental provides sufficient square footage for a dedicated workspace, reliable internet infrastructure, a quiet environment for focused work, and amenities such as coffee shops or libraries for a change of scenery. Pittsburgh offers several neighborhoods and suburbs that meet these needs, ranging from quiet residential areas to amenity-rich communities with coworking spaces.
This guide identifies the best areas in Pittsburgh for remote workers, focusing on space, quiet, connectivity, and lifestyle factors that support working from home.
What Remote Workers Need in an Apartment
Remote workers typically prioritize several features:
Dedicated workspace. A separate room or a defined area within a larger room where work can be done without distraction. Two bedroom units or large one bedroom units with alcoves are ideal.
Quiet environment. Low noise levels from neighbors, street traffic, and emergency vehicles. Upper floor units and buildings with brick or concrete construction offer better soundproofing.
Reliable internet. Access to fiber optic or high speed cable internet. Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity are the primary providers in the region, with Fios generally offering faster upload speeds.
Proximity to coffee shops and libraries. Options for a change of workspace when home becomes stale. Walkable access to third spaces is valuable.
Outdoor space. Access to parks, trails, or private yards for breaks and fresh air. Mental health benefits from regular outdoor time are significant for remote workers.
Best City Neighborhoods for Remote Workers
Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill offers an excellent balance of space, quiet, and amenities for remote workers. The neighborhood’s residential streets are tree lined and quiet, particularly away from the commercial corridors.
One bedroom apartments suitable for remote work typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Two bedroom units, ideal for a dedicated home office, range from $1,600 to $2,500. Units in older converted homes offer generous square footage with separate dining rooms that can serve as office space.
The Forbes and Murray Avenue commercial district provides coffee shops for a change of workspace. The Squirrel Hill branch of the Carnegie Library offers a quiet public workspace. Frick Park provides trails for walking breaks.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity, with fiber available in most of the neighborhood.
Highland Park
Highland Park offers a quiet, residential setting centered around the namesake park. The neighborhood is one of the city’s most peaceful, with limited through traffic and few commercial distractions.
One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,400 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,800. Units in older buildings and converted homes often have large rooms suitable for a home office.
The Bryant Street business district provides a coffee shop and a library branch. Highland Park itself offers acres of trails, a swimming pool, and athletic fields for breaks. The neighborhood is removed from the noise of busier commercial districts.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Greenfield
Greenfield offers affordability and proximity to Schenley Park, making it attractive for remote workers who value outdoor access. The neighborhood is residential and generally quiet.
One bedroom apartments range from $800 to $1,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,000 to $1,500. The lower rents allow remote workers to afford a second bedroom for an office within a modest budget.
Schenley Park provides extensive trails and green space for breaks. The commercial district along Greenfield Avenue has limited coffee shop options, but nearby Squirrel Hill and Oakland offer more choices. The Carnegie Library in nearby Oakland provides public workspace.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Point Breeze
Point Breeze is one of Pittsburgh’s quietest city neighborhoods, known for its large historic homes and tree lined streets. The area has limited commercial activity, which reduces noise and traffic.
One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,500 to $2,200. Units in converted homes often have large rooms, high ceilings, and separate dining areas suitable for office space.
Coffee shop options are limited within the neighborhood, but nearby Shadyside and Squirrel Hill offer choices. Mellon Park provides green space for breaks.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Dormont
Dormont offers T light rail access to downtown while maintaining a residential character. For remote workers who occasionally need to go into the office, Dormont provides a balance.
One bedroom apartments range from $900 to $1,300 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,200 to $1,800. Units in older buildings and converted homes often have generous square footage.
The West Liberty Avenue commercial district provides coffee shops. The Dormont Public Library offers a quiet workspace. The neighborhood has a denser character than Highland Park or Point Breeze, but noise levels are generally moderate away from the main commercial corridor.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Best Suburbs for Remote Workers
Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon offers a walkable suburban environment with T access to downtown. The Uptown commercial district provides coffee shops, restaurants, and the Mt. Lebanon Public Library, all within walking distance of many residences.
One bedroom apartments range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,800 to $2,800. The higher rents reflect the desirability of the location and schools, but remote workers who value walkable amenities may find the premium worthwhile.
Bird Park and other green spaces provide outdoor breaks. The neighborhood is quiet and safe, with well maintained streets.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Bethel Park
Bethel Park offers more space for the money than Mt. Lebanon, with a quieter suburban character. The T provides downtown access for occasional office days.
One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,600 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,400 to $2,100. At these prices, a two bedroom with a dedicated office is affordable for many remote workers.
South Park provides extensive trails, athletic fields, and green space for breaks. Coffee shop options are available along Route 19 and in the South Hills Village area. The Bethel Park Public Library offers workspace.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity, though coverage varies by specific location.
Cranberry Township
Cranberry Township offers newer construction, larger units, and comprehensive amenities for remote workers who prioritize modern living over city proximity.
One bedroom apartments range from $1,400 to $2,000 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,800 to $2,600. Many units in newer complexes are designed with open floor plans that accommodate a home office.
Amenities such as fitness centers, pools, and clubhouses are standard. Some complexes offer coworking spaces or business centers. The Cranberry Township Public Library provides a quiet workspace. North Boundary Park and the township’s trail system offer outdoor recreation.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity, with many areas having fiber access.
Ross Township
Ross Township offers affordable garden style apartments with dedicated parking and quiet settings. The area is residential and removed from the noise of busier commercial corridors.
One bedroom apartments range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Two bedroom units range from $1,400 to $1,900. The lower rents allow remote workers to afford a two bedroom unit for a dedicated office.
The McKnight Road retail corridor provides coffee shops. The Northland Public Library offers a quiet workspace. The township has limited green space compared to other areas, but North Park is a short drive away.
Internet options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity.
Amenities to Look for in a Remote Work Apartment
Dedicated Office Space
A second bedroom is the ideal dedicated office. It provides separation between work and home life, allowing you to close the door at the end of the day. For renters on a tighter budget, a large one bedroom with an alcove or a separate dining room can serve the same purpose.
Internet Connectivity
Before signing a lease, confirm which internet providers serve the building. Verizon Fios offers fiber optic service with upload speeds that support video conferencing. Comcast Xfinity offers high speed cable, but upload speeds are generally slower. In some buildings, only one provider is available.
Noise Level
Upper floor units are generally quieter than ground floor units. Brick and concrete buildings transmit less noise between units than wood frame construction. Units facing courtyards are quieter than those facing streets. Touring potential apartments during weekday business hours helps assess noise levels.
Proximity to Third Spaces
Even the best home office can feel isolating. Having a coffee shop or library within walking distance provides a change of scenery. Many remote workers find that a few hours in a different environment boosts productivity and mental health.
Outdoor Space
Access to a balcony, patio, yard, or nearby park provides an easy break from screen time. Even a small balcony where you can stand for five minutes between meetings makes a difference.
Comparison Table for Remote Workers
| Area | One Bedroom Rent | Two Bedroom Rent | Quiet Level | Coffee Shops | Park Access | Office Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrel Hill | $1,200-1,800 | $1,600-2,500 | High | Excellent | Frick Park | Separate dining rooms |
| Highland Park | $900-1,400 | $1,200-1,800 | Very High | Limited | Highland Park | Large rooms |
| Greenfield | $800-1,200 | $1,000-1,500 | High | Limited | Schenley Park | Affordable 2 BR |
| Point Breeze | $1,100-1,600 | $1,500-2,200 | Very High | Limited | Mellon Park | Large historic units |
| Dormont | $900-1,300 | $1,200-1,800 | Moderate | Good | Small parks | Generous square footage |
| Mt. Lebanon | $1,400-2,200 | $1,800-2,800 | High | Excellent | Bird Park | Walkable to third spaces |
| Bethel Park | $1,100-1,600 | $1,400-2,100 | High | Good | South Park | Affordable 2 BR |
| Cranberry | $1,400-2,000 | $1,800-2,600 | High | Good | North Boundary | Newer open layouts |
| Ross Township | $1,100-1,500 | $1,400-1,900 | High | Good | North Park (drive) | Affordable garden style |
Tips for Remote Workers Renting in Pittsburgh
Prioritize two bedrooms. The second bedroom is worth the extra cost for many remote workers. The separation between work and home improves focus during work hours and relaxation after.
Test the internet before committing. If possible, ask the current tenant or landlord about internet speeds and reliability. In some older buildings, wiring may limit speeds even if the provider offers fiber to the area.
Visit during work hours. Tour potential apartments between 9 AM and 5 PM on a weekday to assess noise levels from neighbors, traffic, and nearby businesses.
Consider the commute for hybrid schedules. If you go into the office one to three days per week, the commute still matters. Dormont, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park offer T access. Ross Township and Cranberry offer express bus service.
Look for buildings with business centers. Some newer apartment complexes offer coworking spaces or business centers, providing a third workspace without leaving the building.
Making the Decision
The best area for remote workers in Pittsburgh depends on budget, desired space, and preference for city versus suburban living.
For renters who want city amenities with quiet residential streets, Squirrel Hill and Highland Park offer excellent options. For those who prioritize affordability and outdoor access, Greenfield is a strong choice. For renters who prefer suburban living with walkable amenities, Mt. Lebanon delivers. For those who want newer construction and comprehensive amenities, Cranberry Township is compelling.
By prioritizing dedicated office space, internet connectivity, and quiet, remote workers can find an apartment in the Pittsburgh region that supports productivity and well being. The city offers options across price points, making it possible to create an effective home office whether you are on a tight budget or seeking premium finishes.