For renters who need housing for a few months rather than a full year, the Pittsburgh market offers a range of short-term options. Whether for a temporary work assignment, an internship, a semester of study, or a trial period before committing to a longer lease, finding a furnished apartment for three to six months requires a different approach than a standard apartment search.
This guide explains the short-term rental landscape in Pittsburgh, covering typical lease lengths, where to find available units, what to expect in terms of cost, and practical tips for securing temporary housing.
What Qualifies as a Short-Term Rental
Short-term rentals typically refer to furnished apartments available for lease periods of one to six months. These differ from both standard year long leases and vacation rentals, which are often booked by the night or week.
Common scenarios for short-term renters include:
- Temporary work assignments or consulting projects
- Medical rotations or residencies at Pittsburgh’s hospitals
- Semester long housing for students or visiting scholars
- Relocation to Pittsburgh with a need to explore neighborhoods before signing a long lease
- Home renovations or insurance displacement
- Extended stays between home sales and purchases
Types of Short-Term Rentals
Corporate Housing
Corporate housing providers offer fully furnished apartments specifically designed for business travelers and temporary assignments. These units typically include all utilities, high speed internet, cable television, and housewares. Buildings are often in prime locations with amenities such as fitness centers and business centers.
Lease terms can range from one month to a year, with flexibility for extensions. Monthly rates are higher than standard unfurnished apartments but include all utilities and services.
Furnished Apartments
Some apartment buildings and private landlords offer furnished units for shorter terms. These may be standard apartments with furniture added, or buildings that cater specifically to temporary renters. Furnishings vary widely, from basic to high end.
Lease terms may be as short as three months, though some landlords require six months. Monthly rates are typically higher than unfurnished equivalents due to the furniture and shorter commitment.
Sublets and Lease Takeovers
Sublets occur when a tenant with an active lease rents their apartment to another person for a portion of the lease term. Lease takeovers involve transferring the lease to a new tenant for the remaining period. These options are often available on a month to month or remaining term basis.
Sublets can be found on various platforms and through university housing offices. Rates are often lower than corporate housing because the original tenant is trying to cover their rent rather than make a profit.
Extended Stay Hotels
Extended stay hotels offer hotel rooms with kitchenettes designed for longer stays. These properties are available by the night, week, or month. They offer the most flexibility for very short stays but are typically the most expensive option on a monthly basis.
Extended stay hotels are best for stays of one to three months where maximum flexibility is needed.
Short-Term Rental Availability by Neighborhood
Downtown and Strip District
Downtown and the Strip District have the highest concentration of corporate housing and professionally managed short-term rentals. These areas appeal to business travelers and professionals on temporary assignment. Buildings often include amenities such as fitness centers, rooftop terraces, and concierge services.
Monthly rates for furnished one bedroom units typically range from $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the building and season.
Oakland
Oakland has short-term rental options catering to medical professionals, visiting scholars, and students. The area’s proximity to UPMC and the universities creates demand for temporary housing. Options include corporate housing near the medical center, furnished apartments, and sublets from students leaving for a semester.
Monthly rates vary widely, from $1,500 to $3,000 for furnished one bedroom units, with student sublets often available at lower rates.
Shadyside and Squirrel Hill
These neighborhoods offer furnished apartments and sublets, often catering to medical residents, visiting professors, and temporary professionals. The residential character and walkable amenities appeal to those seeking a neighborhood feel during a temporary stay.
Monthly rates for furnished one bedroom units typically range from $1,800 to $3,000.
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville has a growing number of short-term rental options, including furnished apartments in newer buildings and some sublets. The neighborhood’s popularity has attracted temporary renters who want to experience the dining and culture during a short stay.
Monthly rates are generally moderate, from $1,600 to $2,800 for furnished one bedroom units.
Suburbs
Suburban short-term rentals are less common than in the city. However, extended stay hotels are available near the airport, in Robinson Township, and along major corridors. These options appeal to temporary workers at airport area businesses or those needing flexible housing.
Cost Comparison
Short-term rentals are more expensive than standard year long leases on a monthly basis. The premium covers the furnished status, utilities, shorter commitment, and management overhead.
| Property Type | Monthly Cost (1 BR) | Lease Term | Utilities Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard unfurnished apartment | $1,200-1,800 | 12 months | No |
| Corporate housing | $2,500-4,000 | 1-6 months | Yes |
| Furnished apartment | $1,800-3,000 | 3-6 months | Varies |
| Sublet | $1,000-2,500 | 1-6 months | Varies |
| Extended stay hotel | $2,500-4,500 | Weekly/monthly | Yes |
The premium for short-term rentals can range from 30 percent to more than 100 percent higher than a standard year long lease in the same neighborhood.
Where to Find Short-Term Rentals
Corporate Housing Providers
Several companies specialize in corporate housing in Pittsburgh. These providers manage furnished apartments in buildings throughout the city. Working directly with a provider is the most direct way to secure a professionally managed short-term rental.
Apartment Buildings with Flexible Terms
Some apartment buildings offer short-term leases as part of their standard offerings. These are more common in newer buildings, particularly in the Strip District, East Liberty, and the North Shore. Contact buildings directly to inquire about short-term availability and rates.
Online Platforms
Several online platforms list short-term rentals, including furnished apartments and sublets. These platforms allow renters to search by lease length and filter for furnished units. Listings vary in quality and professionalism.
University Housing Offices
For those affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, or other local schools, university housing offices maintain lists of short-term rentals and sublets. These are often the most affordable options for students and visiting scholars.
Social Media and Community Groups
Local Facebook groups and other social media platforms have listings for sublets and short-term rentals. These are often from individuals needing to cover their lease while away. Verification and caution are advised.
What to Look for in a Short-Term Rental
Furnishings and Housewares
Confirm what furnishings are included. Some units include only major furniture pieces such as a bed, sofa, and table. Others include kitchenware, linens, and electronics. For a truly turnkey experience, look for units that specify fully furnished.
Utilities and Internet
Clarify which utilities are included in the monthly rate. Corporate housing typically includes all utilities, internet, and cable. Sublets and some furnished apartments may require the renter to set up accounts or reimburse the tenant.
Lease Flexibility
Understand the terms for extending or ending the lease. Some short-term rentals have penalties for early termination. Others allow month to month extensions. If your plans are uncertain, look for maximum flexibility.
Parking
Parking is a significant consideration in many Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Confirm whether parking is included or available for an additional fee. In dense neighborhoods, street parking may not be practical for a short-term stay.
Housekeeping and Maintenance
Corporate housing and extended stay hotels typically offer regular housekeeping. Furnished apartments and sublets generally do not. Understand what services are included before booking.
Tips for Securing a Short-Term Rental
Start Early
Short-term rental inventory is limited compared to standard apartments. Starting your search four to six weeks before your move date is advisable. Last minute bookings are possible but may result in fewer options or higher rates.
Be Clear About Your Timeline
When contacting landlords or providers, clearly state your desired lease length. Some properties that do not advertise short-term rentals may be willing to accommodate a three or four month lease, particularly during off peak seasons.
Consider Off Season Timing
Pittsburgh’s short-term rental demand varies by season. Summer months see demand from medical residents starting rotations and visitors. Winter months may have more availability. If your dates are flexible, timing can affect both availability and rates.
Verify the Listing
For sublets and private listings, verify that the person you are communicating with has the authority to rent the unit. Request a virtual tour or video call to confirm the unit exists and matches the description. Be cautious of listings that seem too good to be true.
Read the Lease Carefully
Short-term leases may have different terms than standard leases. Pay attention to cancellation policies, early termination fees, and rules about guests, pets, and noise. Understand your obligations before signing.
Who Should Consider Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals are best suited for:
- Professionals on temporary work assignments
- Medical residents and rotating fellows
- Students and visiting scholars
- Individuals relocating who want to explore neighborhoods before committing to a year lease
- Homeowners between home sale and purchase
- Those needing temporary housing during renovations or insurance claims
Making the Decision
Short-term rentals in Pittsburgh offer flexibility for renters who cannot commit to a standard year long lease. The market includes corporate housing, furnished apartments, sublets, and extended stay hotels. Each option has different cost structures, lease terms, and levels of service.
For those who need a fully turnkey experience with utilities and housekeeping included, corporate housing or extended stay hotels are the best options, though they come at a premium. For those willing to accept simpler furnishings and manage their own utilities, sublets and furnished apartments offer more moderate rates.
By starting the search early, being clear about timelines, and verifying listings carefully, renters can secure short-term housing that meets their needs. For many temporary stays, the flexibility of a short-term rental is well worth the premium over a standard year long lease.