Pittsburgh Liveability
We think you will find that Pittsburgh is a great place to live! Pittsburgh is consistently named in "Best of" rankings across multiple topics from livability and career opportunities to best city for singles and instagram-worthy views.
With the look and feel of a northeastern city, Pittsburgh is a friendly and welcoming city with a midwestern charm that makes you feel at home.
Housing
Pittsburgh boasts a very affordable cost of living. There are many rentals within an easy walk or bike ride to campus.
All CMU students also enjoy free public transportation and access to campus shuttle services.
The chart below shows a quick comparison of average rental rates. Pittsburgh offers a lot value for housing and quality of life.
| City | Average Monthly Payment* |
| Pittsburgh, PA | $1,462 |
| Berkeley, CA | $3,275 |
| Atlanta, GA | $1,880 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $1,912 |
| New York City (Manhattan), NY | $4,501 |
*RentCafe.com (updated October 2022)
Life in the 'burgh
Our students are able to enjoy a number of activities on and off campus. Our Cultural District is a cluster of theaters, art galleries and cultural landmarks like the grand Heinz Hall, home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Benedum Center for the Performing Arts stages big-name musicals, and the 1903 Byham Theater features dance, film and music. Students are offered discounted tickets to many of these performances each season.
All students also have free access to the Carnegie Museums and Phipps Conservatory.
Foodie? Well, you are in luck because we are one delicious town! You should be able to satisfy pretty much any craving and discover a few new favorites. Most neighborhoods feature charming "main streets" with locally owned shops and restaurants lining the streets.
Pittsburgh is also home to a number of quality craft brewers and distillers, many offering behind-the-scenes tours or special tasting events.
Maybe you enjoy getting some fresh air and outdoor exercise. Pittsburgh offers many hiking trails and green spaces. In fact, some are immediately next to campus in Schenley Park. Warmer weather can be a great time to explore the three rivers via kayak. In the winter, round up a group of friends and hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts.
"We are dreamers, thinkers, makers and problem solvers. We always have been. We are not afraid of redefining ourselves. Or the world. We work together on the biggest challenges, because we know working together solves the problem better."
