For renters seeking more space than an apartment but less maintenance than a single-family home, townhomes offer an attractive middle ground. These multi-level properties typically provide private entrances, dedicated parking, and often small yards or patios, all within a lower-maintenance package than a standalone house. The Pittsburgh area has a strong inventory of townhome rentals across the city and surrounding suburbs, with options at nearly every price point.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of townhome rentals in the Pittsburgh region, covering popular neighborhoods and suburbs, typical rental rates, and what to expect at different price points.
What Makes Townhomes Different
Townhomes are distinct from both apartments and single-family homes. They are typically attached to one or two neighboring units, sharing side walls but not floors above or below. Most townhomes feature two or three levels of living space, a private entrance, and often a small yard, patio, or balcony.
Compared to apartments, townhomes offer more space, more privacy, and often include features such as garages and outdoor areas. Compared to single-family homes, they require less exterior maintenance, as homeowners’ associations or landlords typically handle lawn care and snow removal in many communities.
Best Pittsburgh Neighborhoods for Townhome Rentals
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville is one of Pittsburgh’s most popular neighborhoods for townhome living. The area features a mix of historic row houses and newer townhome developments, many within walking distance of Butler Street’s acclaimed restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
Three bedroom townhomes in Lawrenceville typically range from $1,800 to $2,800 per month. Units often feature three bedrooms, two or more bathrooms, square footage between 1,400 and 1,600 feet, in-unit laundry, and off-street parking. Some include private fenced back yards, central air conditioning, quartz countertops, and high ceilings with exposed beam work.
Lawrenceville appeals to young professionals and couples who want walkable access to dining and nightlife. The neighborhood has a creative, energetic character. Parking can be challenging, so off-street parking is a valuable inclusion.
Point Breeze
Point Breeze is known for its quiet, tree lined streets and historic architecture. The neighborhood offers a more residential feel than Lawrenceville while still providing access to the amenities of nearby Shadyside and Squirrel Hill.
Four bedroom townhomes in Point Breeze typically range from $2,200 to $3,500 per month. Units often feature three and a half bathrooms, approximately 1,800 square feet, hardwood flooring throughout, updated kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, garage parking plus additional off-street parking, central air conditioning, and decks overlooking fenced back yards.
Point Breeze is popular with families and professionals who value quiet streets and good schools. The neighborhood has a more laid back character than Lawrenceville while still being close to city amenities.
Morningside
Morningside offers a quiet, residential character with good access to the East End. The neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community and proximity to Highland Park.
Two and three bedroom row houses in Morningside typically range from $1,500 to $1,800 per month. Units typically feature one or one and a half bathrooms, approximately 1,200 square feet, central air conditioning, private front porches, full dining rooms with built-in cabinetry, updated kitchens with appliances, and full basements with washer and dryer.
Morningside appeals to renters who want a quiet, community oriented neighborhood within a short drive of the city’s amenities. The area is pet-friendly for cats in many units.
South Side Flats
The South Side Flats offer townhome style row houses near the active East Carson Street corridor. The neighborhood has a vibrant nightlife scene and riverfront access.
Two and three bedroom row houses in the South Side Flats typically range from $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Units often feature updated interiors, in-unit laundry, and off-street parking in some buildings.
The South Side Flats appeal to renters who want an active social scene. Parking is a significant challenge, so units with off-street parking are highly valued.
Best Suburbs for Townhome Rentals
Ross Township
Ross Township, located north of Pittsburgh, offers a large inventory of townhome rentals in garden style communities. The area provides easy access to the McKnight Road retail corridor and a 15 to 20 minute commute to downtown via Interstate 279.
Two and three bedroom townhomes in Ross Township typically range from $1,000 to $1,600 per month. Units are in garden style complexes with dedicated parking and community amenities such as outdoor spaces and dog parks. Many communities are pet-friendly.
Ross Township appeals to renters who prioritize value, parking, and suburban amenities over walkability. The area is quiet and safe, with extensive shopping within a short drive.
Bethel Park
Bethel Park, located south of the city, offers townhome rentals with access to the T light rail and South Park. The Bethel Park School District has a strong reputation.
Two and three bedroom townhomes in Bethel Park typically range from $1,300 to $1,900 per month. Many units include garage parking, in-unit laundry, and community amenities. The T provides a 25 to 35 minute ride to downtown.
Bethel Park appeals to families who want good schools, space, and transit access. The commute is longer than Ross Township, but the T eliminates parking costs.
Cranberry Township
Cranberry Township, located north of Pittsburgh in Butler County, offers newer townhome rentals in master planned communities. The area has extensive retail and employment opportunities within the township.
Two and three bedroom townhomes in Cranberry Township typically range from $1,600 to $2,400 per month. Units are in newer communities with modern finishes, attached garages, and amenities such as fitness centers and pools. The commute to downtown takes 30 to 40 minutes.
Cranberry Township appeals to professionals who work in the northern suburbs or at the airport corridor. The area has a modern, planned character with extensive amenities.
Monroeville
Monroeville, located east of Pittsburgh, offers townhome rentals near the Parkway East and Monroeville Mall. The area has extensive retail and a reasonable commute to downtown.
Two and three bedroom townhomes in Monroeville typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Units in garden style complexes include dedicated parking and community amenities. The commute to downtown takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Monroeville appeals to renters who prioritize retail access and suburban amenities. The area is well established with good highway connections.
What Different Price Points Get You
Under $1,000
At this price point, townhomes are typically found in suburbs such as Ross Township. Units provide functional living spaces with community amenities and dedicated parking. These are often older garden style complexes with basic finishes.
$1,000 to $1,500
At this price point, renters have options in suburbs such as Ross Township and Monroeville, as well as city neighborhoods like Wilkinsburg. Units typically offer two bedrooms, one or two bathrooms, and between 900 and 1,200 square feet. Features may include hardwood floors, decorative fireplaces, shared or private outdoor space, and on-site or in-unit laundry. Parking is typically included.
$1,500 to $2,000
At this price point, renters access larger units in desirable city neighborhoods such as Morningside and the South Side Flats. Units typically offer two or three bedrooms, one or two bathrooms, and between 1,200 and 1,500 square feet. Features often include central air conditioning, updated kitchens, private outdoor space such as porches or decks, and in-unit laundry. Parking varies; some units include off-street parking, while others rely on street parking.
$2,000 to $3,000
At this price point, renters access premium locations and larger units. In Lawrenceville and Point Breeze, units typically offer three or four bedrooms, two to four bathrooms, and between 1,400 and 1,800 square feet. Features include central air conditioning, high end finishes such as quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, private fenced yards, garages or off-street parking, and historic character features such as exposed brick or beam work.
Over $3,000
At this price point, renters access the largest units in the most desirable neighborhoods. Four bedroom townhomes in Point Breeze with garages, decks, and fenced yards rent above $3,000. These units offer premium finishes, ample square footage, and high quality outdoor spaces.
Amenities to Expect in Townhome Rentals
Parking
Most townhome rentals include dedicated parking, either in a garage, driveway, or assigned lot. In city neighborhoods such as Lawrenceville, garage parking is a premium feature that adds significant value. In suburban complexes, parking is typically included and plentiful.
Outdoor Space
Many townhomes include private or shared outdoor space. Small yards, patios, balconies, porches, and decks are common. Some properties have fenced back yards, which are particularly valuable for pet owners and families.
In-Unit Laundry
Washer and dryer connections or in-unit laundry are standard in most townhome rentals. This is a significant advantage over many apartment buildings where laundry may be shared.
Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning is common in townhomes, particularly in newer construction or renovated properties. Some older units may have window units.
Pet Policies
Many townhome rentals are pet-friendly, though policies vary. Some properties allow cats only. Others allow both cats and dogs with breed restrictions. Fees typically include a one-time non-refundable pet fee and monthly pet rent.
Questions to Ask Before Renting a Townhome
What maintenance responsibilities fall to tenants?
Clarify who handles lawn care, snow removal, and exterior maintenance. In many townhome communities, the homeowners’ association or landlord handles exterior maintenance. In others, tenants may be responsible for small yards or walkways.
Is there assigned parking?
Confirm whether parking is included, assigned, or first come. Ask about guest parking availability. In some city neighborhoods, street parking may be the only option.
How soundproof are the shared walls?
Townhomes share side walls with neighbors. Ask about the building’s construction. Units with brick party walls generally transmit less noise than wood frame construction. If possible, visit during a time when you can hear noise from the adjacent unit.
What are the utility costs?
Ask for average monthly utility costs for the property. Townhomes, particularly older ones, may have higher heating and cooling costs than apartments due to more exterior wall space.
What is the lease term?
Most townhome rentals require year-long leases, though some landlords offer shorter terms. Confirm the lease length and renewal process.
Making the Decision
Townhome rentals offer an excellent balance of space, privacy, and convenience for families, professionals, and roommates. The Pittsburgh region has options across a wide range of prices and locations.
For the most affordable options, suburbs such as Ross Township offer townhomes starting under $1,000 per month. For value-oriented renters who want dedicated parking and suburban amenities, Monroeville and Bethel Park provide two bedroom townhomes in the $1,200 to $1,800 range. For those who prioritize location and access to dining and nightlife, Lawrenceville offers larger townhomes in the $1,800 to $2,800 range. For renters who want quiet, residential character with good access to the East End, Morningside and Point Breeze provide options from $1,500 to $3,200.
By comparing neighborhoods, evaluating total monthly costs including utilities and parking, and touring properties in person, renters can find a townhome that fits their needs and budget. The flexibility of townhome living, with its blend of space and lower maintenance, makes it a popular choice for many Pittsburgh renters.