For renters seeking a neighborhood that combines urban convenience with residential character and exceptional park access, Squirrel Hill stands as one of Pittsburgh’s most complete communities. Located just east of the city center, this neighborhood of roughly 25,000 residents has cultivated a reputation for its self sufficient commercial district, strong sense of community, and proximity to Frick Park, one of Pittsburgh’s largest and most beloved green spaces.
Squirrel Hill appeals to renters who want to walk to grocery stores, restaurants, and shops while living in a stable, established neighborhood. For families, graduate students, and professionals who value community character over nightlife, it offers a quality of life that is difficult to match.
The Squirrel Hill Commercial District
Squirrel Hill’s defining feature is its commercial district along Forbes and Murray Avenues. Unlike neighborhoods where retail is concentrated on a single street, Squirrel Hill has two intersecting commercial corridors that together create a complete, self sufficient environment.
Forbes Avenue
Forbes Avenue runs east west through the heart of Squirrel Hill. The corridor features a mix of national retailers and locally owned businesses. A large grocery store anchors the district, providing residents with walkable access to fresh food. Banks, pharmacies, and service businesses line the street.
The dining scene along Forbes Avenue includes casual cafes, fast casual options, and sit down restaurants. Cuisine types range from American to Asian to Middle Eastern. Several coffee shops provide gathering spaces for residents working remotely or meeting friends.
Murray Avenue
Murray Avenue runs north south, intersecting Forbes Avenue at the commercial district’s center. This corridor has a more local, independent character. Specialty food stores, bakeries, and ethnic restaurants are concentrated here. The street has a strong Jewish heritage, with several kosher establishments and community institutions.
Murray Avenue also features a public library branch, a post office, and community gathering spaces. The street’s scale invites walking, with storefronts close to the sidewalk and limited setbacks.
Walkability
For renters living within a half mile of the Forbes and Murray intersection, daily errands can be accomplished entirely on foot. A grocery store, pharmacy, bank, library, and dozens of dining options are all within walking distance. This level of self sufficiency is rare among Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Only Squirrel Hill and Shadyside offer such complete walkable commercial districts.
Frick Park: A Natural Retreat
Squirrel Hill’s other defining feature is its adjacency to Frick Park, one of Pittsburgh’s largest and most significant green spaces. At 644 acres, Frick Park is the city’s largest regional park, offering extensive trails, wooded areas, and recreational facilities.
Park Amenities
Frick Park features:
- Over 10 miles of hiking and walking trails through wooded ravines and meadows
- The Frick Environmental Center, a hub for outdoor education
- Athletic fields for soccer, baseball, and other sports
- Tennis courts and basketball courts
- Playgrounds for children
- The Frick Art and Historical Center, which includes the Clayton mansion and art museum
For Squirrel Hill residents, the park is accessible from multiple entry points. The park’s main entrance at Braddock Avenue and Forbes Avenue is within walking distance of the commercial district. Residents can walk from their apartments to the park’s trails in five to fifteen minutes, depending on location.
Blue Slide Park and Nine Mile Run
The park includes popular features such as Blue Slide Park, named for its blue playground slide, and the Nine Mile Run trail, which winds through a restored stream valley. These areas are gathering places for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Seasonal Activity
The park is active year round. Spring brings blooming trees and wildflowers. Summer offers shade and cool temperatures along the trails. Fall provides spectacular foliage colors. Winter transforms the park into a quiet, serene landscape for winter walks.
The Rental Market in Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill offers a mix of rental housing types, from large apartment buildings to converted single family homes.
Rental Housing Stock
The rental market includes:
- Apartment buildings ranging from mid century properties to newer developments
- Converted historic homes offering larger units with character features
- Smaller multi unit buildings on residential side streets
Many units retain historic character elements such as hardwood floors, large windows, and front porches. The housing stock is generally well maintained, reflecting the neighborhood’s stability.
Rental Prices
Squirrel Hill commands rental rates that reflect its desirability but are generally lower than Shadyside. One bedroom apartments typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, while two bedroom units range from $1,600 to $2,500. Three bedroom units, common in converted homes, range from $2,000 to $3,000.
Properties within walking distance of the Forbes and Murray commercial district command the highest rates. Units closer to the park or on quieter side streets offer more moderate options.
Parking
Parking in Squirrel Hill can be challenging near the commercial district. Many older buildings have limited off street parking. Street parking is regulated with residential permit zones. Newer buildings and some converted homes offer off street parking. Renters with vehicles should confirm parking availability before signing a lease.
Residential Character
Squirrel Hill has a strong sense of community that distinguishes it from other Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
Demographics
Squirrel Hill attracts a diverse mix of residents. Families are drawn by the excellent public schools, including Colfax Elementary and Allderdice High School. Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from the nearby universities value the walkable amenities and park access. Professionals and faculty appreciate the stable, established character. The neighborhood also has a significant long term resident population, providing continuity.
Community Institutions
The neighborhood is home to several community institutions that anchor its character. The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill branch is a gathering space. The Jewish Community Center provides recreational and cultural programming. Several houses of worship reflect the area’s religious diversity.
Safety
Squirrel Hill is considered one of Pittsburgh’s safest neighborhoods. Crime rates are consistently low compared to other city neighborhoods. The active commercial district and engaged residents contribute to a sense of security.
Access to Other Areas
While Squirrel Hill is self sufficient, its location provides access to other parts of the city.
Commute to Oakland and Downtown
The drive from Squirrel Hill to Oakland takes 5 to 10 minutes, making it convenient for those affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh or UPMC. The drive to downtown takes 10 to 15 minutes via the Parkway East or local streets. Bus service along Forbes Avenue and Murray Avenue provides transit options.
Access to the East End
Squirrel Hill is adjacent to Shadyside and Point Breeze, providing access to additional shopping and dining. Frick Park connects to the Nine Mile Run trail and the Waterfront shopping complex in Homestead.
Practical Considerations for Renters
Before choosing to rent in Squirrel Hill, potential residents should consider several practical factors.
Walkability
Squirrel Hill’s walkability is its primary advantage. For renters who want to walk to groceries, dining, and services, few neighborhoods compare. However, the walkable radius is centered around Forbes and Murray Avenues. Renters should evaluate the distance from potential apartments to the commercial district.
Parking
As noted, parking can be challenging near the commercial district. Renters with vehicles should prioritize properties with off street parking or be prepared to use residential permit street parking.
Rental Inventory
Squirrel Hill has a substantial rental market, but well maintained properties in desirable locations rent quickly. Renters should allow time in their search and be prepared to act when suitable properties become available.
Schools
For renters with children, Squirrel Hill is served by Pittsburgh Public Schools. Colfax Elementary and Allderdice High School are among the district’s stronger schools. Families should evaluate the schools in the context of their educational priorities.
Who Should Consider Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill is best suited for renters who:
- Value walkable access to a complete commercial district
- Want a stable, established neighborhood with strong community character
- Appreciate access to a large regional park for outdoor recreation
- Prefer a quieter, residential environment over nightlife
- Want proximity to the universities and East End
- Are comfortable with competitive parking near the commercial district
- Seek a family friendly environment with good public schools
Making the Decision
Squirrel Hill offers a quality of life that is difficult to match in other Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Its complete commercial district provides walkable access to groceries, dining, and services. Frick Park offers extensive trails and green space within walking distance of most apartments. The neighborhood’s stable, residential character attracts families, graduate students, and professionals who value community over nightlife.
For renters seeking a neighborhood that has it all, Squirrel Hill delivers. The rental rates are justified by the convenience and quality of life. By visiting the neighborhood, walking Forbes and Murray Avenues, and exploring the trails of Frick Park, renters can experience firsthand why Squirrel Hill remains one of Pittsburgh’s most desirable places to live.