Squirrel Hill vs. Shadyside: Renter’s Guide to Pittsburgh Neighborhood
Pittsburgh, PA features a diverse rental market with vibrant neighborhoods that suit a variety of lifestyles. With plenty of areas to choose from, it’s important to find the right fit when renting in the city.
The districts of Squirrel Hill and Shadyside offer unique amenities and lifestyles, making them popular choices for renters looking to live close to the city. This guide compares renting in Squirrel Hill vs. Shadyside with a focus on cost, amenities, transportation, lifestyle, and community vibe.
Cost of Renting: Squirrel Hill vs. Shadyside
Cost is a key factor when choosing a place to live. Rental costs can differ between the two neighborhoods, but it is possible to find a variety of Squirrel Hill rentals and Shadyside rentals that fit your budget.
Average Rent Prices
The average monthly rent in Squirrel Hill is $1,546 per month. However, rent prices can vary depending on the type of apartment or home. Here is a further breakdown of average rent prices for different housing types in Squirrel Hill:
- Studio Apartment: $1,092 per month
- One-Bedroom Apartment: $1,546 per month
- Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,892 per month
- Three-Bedroom Apartment: $2,771 or more per month
- Single-Family Homes: $2,800 – $4,500 per month
The average rent for an apartment in Shadyside is $1,853 per month. Again, prices can vary based on multiple factors. Here is a further breakdown of average rent prices for different housing types in Shadyside:
- Studio Apartment: $1,200 – $1,500 per month
- One-Bedroom Apartment: $1,500 – $2,000 per month
- Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000 – $2,800 per month
- Three-Bedroom Apartment: $2,800 – $3,500 per month
- Single-Family Homes: $3,500 – $5,000 per month
Cost of Living Beyond Rent
Looking beyond rent rates, renters must take into consideration additional costs, such as utilities, parking, public transportation, and more.
In Squirrel Hill, utilities like electric, heating, cooling, and water result in an average cost of $150 to $200 per month. However, utilities can vary based on the size of the apartment or house. Street parking is typically free with permit requirements, while off-street parking may be around $100 to $200 per month. Squirrel Hill is serviced by buses that connect to various parts of the city, and a typical monthly bus pass costs around $100.
Utility costs in Shadyside are comparable to those in Squirrel Hill, but costs may be higher in Shadyside due to its more urban environment, potentially leading to higher heating and cooling costs. With a higher demand for parking among residents, parking costs are slightly higher in Shadyside. Off-street parking costs range from $150 to $250 per month. However, public transportation costs are generally the same in both neighborhoods.
Amenities and Services in Squirrel Hill vs. Shadyside
Each neighborhood offers a unique community with a variety of amenities and services.
Shopping and Restaurants
Squirrel Hill provides its residents with plenty of amenities, such as local shops, breweries, theaters, parks, and more. When it comes to dining, Squirrel Hills offers some of the best ethnic restaurants in Pittsburgh. For instance, you can find Chinese classics at Everyday Noodles, or if you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern food, Naya Cuisine has got you covered.
Shadyside offers plenty of amenities throughout the area, including Walnut, Highland, and Ellsworth streets. The neighborhood features a wide variety of restaurants and bars for all to enjoy. Some dining favorites include The Yard, a gourmet sandwich joint, and Sienna Mercato, a restaurant with Italian classics. Shadyside features an abundance of local shops and name-brand retailers.
Parks, Recreation & Gyms
Squirrel Hill is well-equipped with parks, recreational facilities, and gyms, making it a great neighborhood for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Some popular parks in the area include Frick Park, Schenley Park, and Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. The Squirrel Hill Community Center offers a variety of programs, classes, and events for all ages. Additionally, Squirrel Hill offers a mix of fitness centers throughout the area. Similarly, Shadyside offers a wide range of options for outdoor recreation, fitness, and community involvement. The Pittsburgh Public Swimming Pool hosts swimming and aquatic fitness classes during the summer months. Additionally, Mellon Park is a popular park for young families looking to enjoy the outdoors. Shadyside also hosts popular community events, such as Jam on Walnut, Shadyside’s featured summer block party.
Transportation and Commute Times
Access to public transportation and manageable commute times are essential factors to consider when looking to rent in the city.
Public Transportation Accessibility
Squirrel Hill is well-served by public transportation, making it convenient for residents to commute and travel throughout the city. The Port Authority operates several bus routes that serve Squirrel Hill, providing access to downtown Pittsburgh, other neighborhoods and suburban areas. Buses are generally reliable and frequent. The commute from Squirrel Hill to downtown Pittsburgh typically takes about 15-25 minutes by bus, depending on traffic. The T Line light rail is another transportation option to consider.
Walnut Street, Ellsworth Avenue, and Highland Avenue link to downtown Pittsburgh and other city areas, making Shadyside very accessible to the rest of the city. Shadyside is also served by key Port Authority bus routes. By bus, the commute from Shadyside to downtown Pittsburgh is around 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
While both locations are convenient, Shadyside has a slight edge in terms of proximity to downtown Pittsburgh.
Traffic and Parking Considerations
Shadyside generally experiences heavier traffic and congestion compared to Squirrel Hill due to its more central and commercial nature.
While both neighborhoods offer on-street and off-street parking, Shadyside’s higher density and commercial activity make parking more competitive in that area. Overall, Squirrel Hill tends to have more manageable traffic and parking situations, particularly in residential areas.
Lifestyle and Community Vibe
Squirrel Hill is a convenient and charming neighborhood that offers an array of dining, coffee shops, local shops, green spaces, and community events. Additionally, this neighborhood is one of the most affluent and well-educated neighborhoods in the city, as it is closely located to several universities and hospitals. The community atmosphere can be described as family-friendly and diverse, as the neighborhood has a suburban feel with tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and a strong sense of community. Rentals in Squirrel Hill tend to have larger yards and outdoor space. Compared to downtown Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill is a quieter residential area.
On the other hand, Shadyside offers a more urban lifestyle with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. It’s known for its lively commercial areas, upscale restaurants, and exciting nightlife. The neighborhood is popular among young professionals, students, and those seeking an active social life. While Shadyside offers old world charm homes, it also features new modern housing as well. Modern housing options may include additional parking areas, community rooms, swimming pools, or fitness centers, which appeal to younger renters or busy professionals.
Walkability and Neighborhood Accessibility
Some areas of Squirrel Hill are walkable, particularly around commercial areas like Murray Avenue, but reaching certain amenities may require a longer walk or short drive. With well-lit streets and lower traffic volume compared to more central areas, Squirrel Hill is generally considered safe for pedestrians.
Shadyside is known for its high walkability. Key areas like Ellsworth Avenue, Walnut Street, and Highland Avenue feature numerous amenities within easy walking distance. The neighborhood is designed to be pedestrian-friendly with well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Compared to Shadyside, Squirrel Hill has a more subdued nightlife atmosphere. There are a few bars and pubs, such as The Shady Grove and Nadine’s Bar, that tend to be more relaxed. However, Squirrel Hill hosts many community events like festivals and farmer’s markets. Additionally, the area is home to many cultural institutions.
Shadyside has a more active nightlife with a variety of bars, lounges, and clubs. These late-night options cater to younger crowds. Other entertainment options include dining at diverse restaurants, attending seasonal fairs and art galleries, and watching live music and performances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Squirrel Hill safer than Shadyside?
Squirrel Hill is perceived as slightly safer than Shadyside due to its lower overall crime rate and family-oriented environment.
Is Squirrel Hill more expensive than Shadyside?
Shadyside is generally more expensive than Squirrel Hill in terms of both rental and purchasing prices. This is mostly because of its urban setting, proximity to commercial areas, and higher demand for real estate.
Is Squirrel Hill a nicer neighborhood than Shadyside?
Determining whether Squirrel Hill or Shadyside is “nicer” depends on individual preferences and what you value most in a neighborhood.
Concluding Thoughts: Choosing Between Squirrel Hill and Shadyside
Squirrel Hill and Shadyside are two distinct neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, each with its own unique characteristics. While both options feature an array of housing types for renters, Shadyside tends to have higher rent prices, due to a closer proximity to downtown Pittsburgh. Squirrel Hill can be described as a more family-friendly residential area, while Shadyside is known for its social, urban atmosphere.
If you are looking to rent in either Squirrel Hill or Shadyside, contact BC Artman Real Estate for personalized advice from Pittsburgh real estate agents and access to rental listings in both neighborhoods.
