For renters seeking affordable housing within a reasonable commute of downtown Pittsburgh, Penn Hills offers one of the most accessible value propositions in the eastern suburbs. Located approximately 12 miles east of the city, this township of roughly 35,000 residents provides a 20 to 30 minute drive to downtown while maintaining rental rates that are significantly lower than city neighborhoods and closer suburbs.
Penn Hills represents a practical choice for renters who prioritize affordability and space over walkable urban amenities. For those willing to commute a bit longer or look beyond conventional options, the township delivers on value and accessibility.
Location and Accessibility
Penn Hills’ location along the Parkway East (Interstate 376) corridor is its primary advantage. This highway access provides efficient connections to downtown Pittsburgh, the eastern suburbs, and the Parkway East employment centers.
Commute to Downtown Pittsburgh
The drive from Penn Hills to downtown Pittsburgh typically takes 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The primary route uses the Parkway East (I-376) westbound, which provides a direct corridor into the city. The Squirrel Hill Tunnel is the primary bottleneck, with traffic slowing during peak hours. Commuting earlier than 7:30 AM or after 9:00 AM typically results in smoother travel.
For those who prefer public transit, the Port Authority provides bus service along Frankstown Road, Rodi Road, and other corridors, with routes connecting to downtown and other destinations. The East Busway, with a stop in nearby Wilkinsburg, provides rapid transit access for commuters willing to drive to the busway station.
Access to the Parkway East
Penn Hills’ location along I-376 provides connections to the broader region. The highway connects to the Pennsylvania Turnpike for travel to points east, and to downtown for access to the Parkway North and Parkway West.
Access to the Waterfront and Monroeville
Penn Hills is located between two significant commercial corridors. Monroeville, with its mall and extensive retail, is a 10 to 15 minute drive. The Waterfront in Homestead is a 15 to 20 minute drive. For residents, this means that shopping and entertainment options are accessible without traveling to the city.
The Penn Hills Rental Market
The rental housing stock in Penn Hills reflects the township’s development as a post-war suburb. Renters will find a mix of garden style apartment complexes, townhome communities, and converted homes.
Garden Style Apartment Complexes
The predominant rental housing type in Penn Hills is the garden style apartment complex. These properties typically consist of two or three story buildings arranged around parking areas and landscaped common spaces. Unit layouts emphasize functionality and square footage, with one, two, and three bedroom floor plans available.
These complexes generally offer features that appeal to renters seeking convenience and low maintenance living. On site laundry facilities or in unit washer and dryer connections are common. Many properties include amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and clubhouses. Parking is provided in dedicated lots.
Townhome Communities
Penn Hills has a significant inventory of townhome communities that offer rental opportunities. These properties provide multi level living with private entrances and often include designated parking or attached garages. Townhome rentals appeal to renters who desire more space and a layout closer to single family living without the responsibilities of homeownership.
Converted Homes
In addition to complexes, Penn Hills has a collection of converted single family homes that have been divided into apartments. These properties are scattered throughout the township’s residential streets and often retain character features such as hardwood floors and front porches.
Rental Prices
The primary appeal of Penn Hills is affordability. Rental rates in the township are significantly lower than in city neighborhoods and many closer suburbs.
One bedroom apartments typically range from $700 to $1,000 per month, while two bedroom units range from $900 to $1,300. Three bedroom units, common in garden style complexes and townhomes, range from $1,200 to $1,600.
For context, comparable units in city neighborhoods like Shadyside or Lawrenceville often rent for two to three times these rates. The savings can be substantial, allowing renters to allocate budget to other priorities.
Shopping and Amenities
Penn Hills offers a range of shopping and services within the township and in nearby communities.
Penn Hills Shopping Corridors
The township has retail along Rodi Road, Frankstown Road, and other corridors. These areas feature grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and service businesses. Major grocery chains including Giant Eagle, Aldi, and Walmart are located within the township or nearby.
This retail density means that most daily errands can be accomplished within a short drive from any rental property in Penn Hills.
Dining Options
Penn Hills offers a range of dining options, from fast food to casual sit down restaurants. The township has a mix of national chains and locally owned eateries. For broader dining choices, Monroeville and the Waterfront are within a 10 to 20 minute drive.
Proximity to Monroeville
Penn Hills is adjacent to Monroeville, which offers extensive retail including the Monroeville Mall, big box stores, and numerous dining options. For residents, this means that broader shopping needs are easily met without traveling to the city.
Parks and Recreation
Penn Hills offers several parks and recreational facilities that provide outdoor space for residents.
Penn Hills Community Park
Penn Hills Community Park is a centerpiece of the township’s recreational offerings. The park features athletic fields, walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It serves as a gathering place for community events and offers outdoor recreation for residents.
Boyce Park
Boyce Park, located in adjacent Plum, is a large county park offering extensive trails, a wave pool, ski slope, and athletic facilities. For renters who value outdoor recreation, having this resource nearby adds to the quality of life.
Local Parks
The township maintains several neighborhood parks that provide green space, playgrounds, and athletic facilities.
Schools and Family Considerations
For renters with children, Penn Hills is served by the Penn Hills School District. The district operates multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school within the township.
Families considering renting in Penn Hills should evaluate the district’s offerings in the context of their educational priorities.
Practical Considerations for Renters
Before choosing to rent in Penn Hills, potential residents should consider several practical factors.
Car Dependency
Car ownership is essential for residents of Penn Hills. The township’s suburban layout makes walking to most destinations impractical. Most households require at least one vehicle, and families with two working adults may need a second.
Rental Inventory
The rental market in Penn Hills is substantial, with numerous apartment complexes and townhome communities offering a range of options. Renters have choices across price points and housing types. The variety means that renters can typically find properties that meet their needs within their budget.
Commute Considerations
For renters who work in downtown Pittsburgh, the 20 to 30 minute commute should be factored into daily life. While the highway access makes the commute predictable, the Squirrel Hill Tunnel can be a bottleneck. Those with flexible schedules or who work outside peak hours will have smoother travel.
Property Condition
Given the age of much of Penn Hills’ housing stock, properties can vary in condition. Renters should inspect each unit carefully and clarify what is included in terms of parking, utilities, and maintenance responsibilities. The best value often comes from well maintained properties.
Comparing Penn Hills to Other Affordable Areas
For renters considering Penn Hills, it helps to understand how it compares to alternative locations.
Versus Monroeville
Compared to Monroeville, which lies to the east, Penn Hills offers lower rental rates and a similar suburban character. Monroeville has more extensive retail and a larger employment base. The choice between the two often comes down to specific location preferences and budget.
Versus Wilkinsburg
Compared to Wilkinsburg, which lies closer to the city, Penn Hills offers more space and newer housing stock. Wilkinsburg has lower rental rates but an older housing stock. The commute from Penn Hills is slightly longer.
Versus Braddock
Compared to Braddock, which lies to the southeast, Penn Hills offers more suburban amenities and newer housing stock. Braddock offers even lower rental rates but a neighborhood in transition. The choice depends on priorities around housing condition versus absolute lowest rent.
Versus East End Neighborhoods
Compared to East End neighborhoods like Shadyside or Squirrel Hill, Penn Hills offers significantly lower rental rates and more space at the cost of walkability and urban amenities. For renters who prioritize affordability and are willing to drive for services, Penn Hills provides a practical alternative.
Who Should Consider Penn Hills
Penn Hills is best suited for renters who:
- Prioritize affordability and space over walkability
- Have a car for commuting and errands
- Want a suburban environment with dedicated parking
- Work in Monroeville, the Parkway East corridor, or downtown
- Are comfortable with a 20 to 30 minute commute
- Seek garden style complexes and townhomes over older city housing
- Want proximity to shopping without city prices
Making the Decision
Penn Hills serves renters who prioritize affordability and suburban living over walkable urban amenities. For those who want more space, dedicated parking, and lower rental rates than city neighborhoods, it represents a practical choice.
The township works well for professionals who work in Monroeville, the Parkway East corridor, or downtown and are willing to accept a 20 to 30 minute commute. It suits families who value suburban space, parks, and lower housing costs. It accommodates renters who prefer garden style complexes and townhomes over older city housing.
For renters considering Penn Hills, visiting the township during weekdays and weekends provides a complete picture. Experiencing the commute, exploring the retail corridors, and touring the apartment communities helps determine whether the suburban lifestyle aligns with personal preferences. For many renters in the Pittsburgh region, Penn Hills offers an affordable option that delivers on value and accessibility.