After helping buyers relocate to Pittsburgh for nearly a decade, I've noticed something interesting.
Many people begin their home search looking at the entire region. But after touring different communities, a large percentage decide to settle in Pittsburgh's North Hills.
There isn't one single reason.
Instead, it's the combination of excellent schools, convenient commuting, beautiful neighborhoods, outstanding parks, shopping, healthcare, and overall quality of life that makes the North Hills such an attractive place to call home.
If you're thinking about relocating to the Pittsburgh area, here's why the North Hills deserves a closer look.
Outstanding Schools
For many relocation buyers, schools are one of the biggest priorities.
The North Hills is home to several highly regarded public school districts, including:
- North Allegheny
- Quaker Valley
- Hampton
- Pine-Richland
- North Hills
- Avonworth
Each district offers its own strengths, from academic excellence and athletics to arts, music, and extracurricular opportunities.
Even buyers without school-age children often appreciate living in communities served by strong school districts because they tend to remain desirable over the long term.
Convenient Commute
One of the biggest advantages of living north of Pittsburgh is the transportation network.
Many communities provide convenient access to:
- Interstate 79
- Interstate 279
- Route 19
- The Pennsylvania Turnpike
That makes commuting relatively straightforward to Downtown Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township, Robinson Township, Moon Township, and many of the region's largest employers.
One thing many relocation buyers quickly discover is that living in the North Hills often means you don't have to drive through the Fort Pitt Tunnel every day, something longtime Pittsburgh residents understand can make a significant difference during rush hour.
Easy Access to Pittsburgh International Airport
For buyers who travel frequently for work—or simply enjoy getting away—the airport is another major advantage.
From many North Hills communities, Pittsburgh International Airport is only about a 20- to 30-minute drive, making business trips and vacations much more convenient than in many other parts of the region.
Excellent Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is important at every stage of life.
Residents of the North Hills are close to several outstanding medical facilities, including:
- UPMC Passavant
- AHN Wexford Hospital
- Numerous specialty practices
- Outpatient medical centers
- Urgent care facilities
Whether you're raising young children, planning for retirement, or somewhere in between, excellent healthcare is always nearby.
Shopping and Dining
One of the things relocation buyers appreciate most is convenience.
The North Hills offers an outstanding variety of shopping and restaurants, including:
- Ross Park Mall
- McCandless Crossing
- Wexford Plaza
- Cranberry's retail districts
- Locally owned restaurants
- National retailers
- Coffee shops
- Grocery stores
- Specialty boutiques
Whether you're looking for everyday essentials or a great place to celebrate a special occasion, you'll have plenty of options.
More Home for Your Money
Compared to many major metropolitan areas, Pittsburgh continues to offer exceptional value.
Many relocation buyers are pleasantly surprised by what their budget can purchase here.
Whether you're looking for:
- A first home
- A larger home with a yard
- New construction
- Luxury property
- Maintenance-free living
The North Hills offers housing options across a wide range of price points.
Many buyers relocating from larger cities find they can purchase significantly more home than they expected.
Beautiful Parks and Outdoor Recreation
The North Hills is filled with parks and recreational opportunities.
Some local favorites include:
- North Park
- Hartwood Acres
- Blueberry Hill Park
- Graham Park
- Knob Hill Park
Residents enjoy walking trails, biking, tennis, pickleball, golf, playgrounds, community events, fishing, kayaking, and countless opportunities to spend time outdoors.
It's one of the reasons so many people enjoy an active lifestyle here.
A Community for Every Lifestyle
One of the things I appreciate most about the North Hills is its diversity.
You can choose from:
- Historic Sewickley
- Executive neighborhoods in Wexford
- Family-friendly communities in McCandless
- Luxury homes in Marshall Township
- Growing Cranberry Township
- Quiet neighborhoods in Franklin Park
- Charming Ben Avon Heights
- Scenic Hampton Township
Each community has its own personality while sharing the advantages of the North Hills location.
Exceptional Quality of Life
When buyers ask me why I enjoy living and working here, my answer is simple.
The North Hills offers an outstanding balance.
You can enjoy beautiful parks in the morning, meet friends for lunch in Sewickley, shop in Wexford or Cranberry, attend a sporting event downtown that evening, and still be home in time to relax.
It combines suburban comfort with convenient access to everything the Pittsburgh region has to offer.
That's a combination that's hard to beat.
Thinking About Relocating?
Relocating isn't just about buying a house.
It's about finding a community where you'll enjoy living for years to come.
One of my favorite parts of being a Realtor is introducing buyers to neighborhoods they may never have considered and helping them discover the community that feels like home.
As someone who has relocated multiple times myself, I understand both the excitement and the uncertainty that come with moving to a new city.
If you're considering a move to Pittsburgh, I'd be happy to answer your questions, compare neighborhoods, and help you find the community that's the best fit for your lifestyle.
