Top Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh for Families with Little Kids
Pittsburgh is known for its top-notch quality of life, but finding the right neighborhood for a family with little kids can be challenging. Here’s a detailed guide to the best options available in Pittsburgh based on family-friendly factors such as schools, recreational activities, community spirit, and overall safety.
1. Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill is a historic and vibrant neighborhood known for its strong community feel. If your family enjoys outdoor activities and neighborhood events, you'll find a lot to love here.
Schools: Squirrel Hill offers excellent public schools, making it a top choice for families prioritizing quality education.
Parks and Playgrounds: The area is rich in park life with several playgrounds within walking distance.
Activities and Attractions: This district is close to the famous Pittsburgh Zoo PPG Aquarium, as well as the Carnegie Mellon University campus, providing constant entertainment and educational opportunities.
Community Activities: Squirrel Hill hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among families.
Transport: Relatively easy access to downtown and other parts of the city, making it convenient for young families.
2. Shadyside
Shadyside is a vibrant and charming neighborhood with a mix of shopping, dining, and green spaces. It’s a superb option for families seeking a blend of urban life and suburban amenities.
Schools: Shadyside is home to highly regarded public schools, providing a reliable academic foundation for your children.
Parks and Recreational Activities: The neighborhood boasts numerous parks and playgrounds, ensuring plenty of space for children to play and develop.
Medical Facilities: Being near several hospitals and medical facilities can offer peace of mind for any parent.
Community Engaged: Shadyside is known for its strong sense of community, with a variety of social and cultural events throughout the year.
Nightlife: While it’s kid-friendly, Shadyside also offers some evening activities and dining options that can be enjoyed by adults in the evenings.
3. Upper St. Clair
Located just southwest of Pittsburgh, Upper St. Clair is a suburban neighborhood celebrated for its excellent public schools and safe environment. It’s an excellent choice for families seeking a more traditional suburban lifestyle.
School District: Upper St. Clair is part of the Quaker Valley School District, known for its high academic standards.
Parks and Recreational Facilities: There are many parks and recreational facilities that keep kids active and engaged.
Community: The neighborhoods are walkable, fostering a friendly and connected community.
Local Shops and Restaurants: A good mix of local businesses, making it convenient for everyday needs and occasional shopping trips.
Transportation: Relatively convenient with access to public transportation and proximity to major highways.
4. Mount Lebanon
For a strong community-oriented atmosphere with a variety of local amenities, Mount Lebanon is a prime choice. It’s another area with a strong school system, offering a friendly residential environment for families.
Schools: Mount Lebanon is part of the Fox Chapel Area School District, known for its excellent performance.
Parks and Playgrounds: The area is filled with numerous parks and playgrounds, ensuring there’s room for play and sports.
Community Events: Regular community events foster a sense of belonging within the neighborhood.
Nature and Walkability: The walkable neighborhoods provide a safe and inviting environment for families to move around.
Local Ecosystem: Livestock and farms within easy reach, offering unique family experiences beyond the city.
5. Peters Township
Peters Township is known for its spacious homes, good schools, and suburban feel. It’s a great choice for families seeking a wide range of recreational opportunities for children.
Schools: Peters Township is part of the Peters Township School District, which is well-regarded for its quality education.
Parks and Recreational Opportunities: There are ample parks and recreational options for kids to enjoy, making after-school activities a breeze.
Community Life: A suburban environment with a strong sense of community, where families can easily make connections.
Local Amenities: The area includes local shops, restaurants, and other community features that make daily life convenient.
Natural Spaces: With nearby nature reserves and parks, this area offers a blend of urban and natural experiences.
6. Brookline
Beyond its affordability, Brookline offers a strong sense of community and a range of family-friendly amenities.
Community Support: Brookline boasts a tight-knit community with a variety of local events and activities.
Parks and Playgrounds: The area is rich in parks and playgrounds, making it perfect for playing and socializing.
Anchored Events: Year-round events and festivals create a vibrant community atmosphere that appeals to families.
Budget-Friendly: Relatively affordable housing options can save you money in this area.
Local Resources: While affordable, it’s not isolated; it's within easy reach of city amenities if needed.
7. Allentown
Allentown is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a growing emphasis on becoming a family-friendly area.
New Development: The neighborhood is investing in parks and family-friendly spaces, making it a promising choice for young families.
Economic Growth: As the area grows, it’s becoming more attractive to those looking for affordable housing.
Community Sense: A sense of community is forming as more people move in.
Future Prospects: With ongoing investment in infrastructure and community development, Allentown has a bright future for families.
Proximity: It’s close to other Pittsburgh neighborhoods, offering flexibility in where to live while still maintaining a family-friendly environment.
Conclusion and Budget Considerations
Your budget will have a significant impact on your housing choices, but with little children, your highest priority should be locating in a quality school district. Unless your plans include private school, top-rated public school districts like Mount Lebanon, Quaker Valley, and Fox Chapel are highly recommended. I STRONGLY advise against the Pittsburgh Public School system. My experience has shown that the city schools can be challenging, and it's best to consider alternative educational options like cyber schools for a smoother transition.