Pittsburgh, PABest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Steel City’s got it. Renowned universities, world-class health care and a vibrant arts and culture scene all contribute to Pittsburgh’s reputation as a historical city with an eye for innovation. From pro sports to plenty of parks, Pittsburgh is welcoming for all.
Pittsburgh, PA, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
With world-class museums, pro sports teams to cheer for, and a strong economy leading the way in robotics, AI, cybersecurity and more, it’s no wonder why nearly 300,000 people know that Pittsburgh, PA, is a great place to call home.
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., those who move here have their pick of 90 neighborhoods, from Squirrel Hill North, surrounded by universities that will keep you young at heart, to Regent Square, which neighbors Frick Park, a beloved 640-acre historic park.
Pittsburgh gets a standing ovation for its remarkable arts and culture scene and claims to be the top city in the country when it comes to direct spending on the arts. The robust arts and culture scene is made up of more than 30 museums, including the August Wilson African American Culture Center, which honors Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson, and the Andy Warhol Museum, which celebrates Pittsburgh’s native son and king of pop art. In addition, the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh include three additional museums dedicated to art, science and natural history.
No doubt, Pittsburgh is a city of innovators. The first cable suspension bridge, polio vaccine, Ferris wheel and emoticon — a smiley face 🙂 — can all be traced back to Pittsburgh. That spirit of entrepreneurship remains intact today. More than 70 clean-tech companies are doing business here, and the Pittsburgh International Airport is the first in the world to be powered entirely by natural gas and solar energy.
Pittsburgh, PA Quality of Life LivScore
Pittsburgh, PA Top Categories
Amenities
Economy
Transportation
Pittsburgh ranks highest for amenities, economy and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Pittsburgh, PA
Summers are hot, winters are cold and snowy, and gray days are pretty common. The average highs and lows are 82°F and 63°F (summer) and 38°F and 24°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Pittsburgh is 42 inches, and the heaviest chances of snowfall are in January and February.
The average annual rainfall in Pittsburgh is 39 inches, and the city experiences an average of 149 rainy days per year.
Pittsburgh averages 160 sunny days a year.
Rent a kayak and explore the Allegheny River, or gather some friends, pack a cooler and embark on a two-hour tiki boat river tour.
Pittsburgh Weather
160 days
Average Annual Sun
39 inches
Average Annual Rain
42 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has always paved the way when it comes to innovation, even when it comes to condiments. Heinz Ketchup was invented in Pittsburgh by H.J. Heinz.
The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is a special place and even has an exhibit dedicated to promoting kindness and empathy.
The intimate “Sound Series” concerts at the Andy Warhol Museum can’t be missed.
Enjoy daily happy hours, half-off wine on Wednesdays, and gourmet fries like the umami ones with sweet chili aioli at Emerson’s, a beautiful bar with a European feel above Market Street Grocery.
The Local and State Economy in Pittsburgh, PA
Technology, financial services and manufacturing are major industries in Pittsburgh. Several notable companies are headquartered in Pittsburgh, including PNC Financial Services, PPG Industries and H.J. Heinz Company.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Pittsburgh is 7%.
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax.
There are several highly regarded hospitals in Pittsburgh, including UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, Allegheny General Hospital and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
There are several major colleges and universities in Pittsburgh, PA, including the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.
Quick Facts About Pittsburgh, PA
- Median Household Income
- $54,614
- Median Home Value
- $185,800
- Average State Property Tax
- $3,022
- Total Population
- 299,250
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $888
- Average Commute
- 20.66 minutes
A strong economy and robust arts and culture scene landed Pittsburgh its spot – one of only two Pennsylvania cities – on the list. Read more about what makes Pittsburgh special, and check out other great cities in Pennsylvania for young professionals. Curious about the cost of living in Pittsburgh? Read more here.
