As we approach the latter half of the spring semester, now is the perfect time for any student looking to rent off-campus to start planning. Rental listings typically begin to pick up in anticipation of the summer and fall terms, giving students a wider range of options and the chance to find an ideal place before the big rush.
When searching for a place to rent near Chatham University, many people immediately think of Shadyside and Squirrel Hill, the two neighborhoods surrounding campus. While these areas are popular and conveniently located, there are other neighborhoods around Pittsburgh that may offer a more affordable or distinctive living experience, whether through historic architecture and a residential atmosphere, a lively cultural and food scene or a variety of entertainment, shopping and nightlife options. Here are some alternative rental options that are also convenient and full of character.
Friendship – 2.0 miles from campus
Located on the edge of Shadyside, Friendship offers a charming, residential neighborhood with Victorian-style homes and easy access to coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, public transit and plenty of entertainment options. It benefits from spillover activity from surrounding areas, allowing it to maintain its neighborhood character while still offering convenient access to nearby amenities.
Bloomfield – 2.0 miles from campus
Bloomfield, a vibrant neighborhood well-regarded for its food scene, offers a mix of modern apartments and classic row houses. The area is both walkable and transit-friendly, with several nearby bus routes providing easy access to Chatham’s campus. Residents enjoy a lively nightlife and entertainment scene, along with plenty of recreational outdoor spaces, including Bloomfield Park. Known as Pittsburgh’s Little Italy, the neighborhood boasts a rich cultural heritage, making it a unique and bustling place to live.
Lawrenceville – 3.0 miles from campus
Lawrenceville is filled with endless entertainment options and a constant buzz of activity. Similarly to Bloomfield, housing styles here range from modern apartments to timeless row homes. At the heart of the neighborhood, Butler Street is lined with independent restaurants, unique boutiques, cafés and lively art scenes. With its blend of culture and convenience, Lawrenceville attracts both locals and tourists, making it one of Pittsburgh’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
You can reach Chatham via the 64 Lawrenceville-Waterfront bus route from each of these locations. To simplify your search for rental properties, consider using Zillow Rentals. This is Zillow’s rental specific app for browsing available listings. Additionally, Reddit can be a useful resource for those seeking opinions and experiences regarding optimal areas to live in Pittsburgh.
