Choosing Between Pittsburgh’s North Hills and South Hills

Moving to Pittsburgh and trying to decide where to plant roots? One of the most common questions homebuyers ask is:
“Should I move to the North Hills or the South Hills?”

Both areas have their own personality, perks, and challenges—and which one is “better” really depends on your lifestyle, commute, and budget. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make the best move.

🧭 Where Are the North Hills and South Hills?

  • North Hills refers to the communities north of Pittsburgh, generally accessed via I-79, I-279, and Route 8.

  • South Hills lies south of the city and includes areas along Route 19, Route 51, and the Parkway West (I-376).

Each region is made up of multiple suburbs—some more urban, others quiet and rural.

🏡 Living in the North Hills: Pros & Cons

Popular Communities:

  • McCandless

  • Ross Township

  • Franklin Park

  • Wexford

  • Cranberry Township

Pros:

  • Top-rated school districts like North Allegheny and Pine-Richland

  • Close to North Park—great for biking, fishing, and trails

  • Easy access to I-79 and I-279 for commutes to downtown or the airport

  • Newer housing developments in areas like Cranberry and Wexford

Cons:

  • Traffic can build up

  • Some areas further north may feel more spread out

🏡 Living in the South Hills: Pros & Cons

Popular Communities:

  • Mt. Lebanon

  • Bethel Park

  • Upper St. Clair

  • South Fayette

  • Baldwin

Pros:

  • Light rail (T) access to Downtown from neighborhoods like Mt. Lebanon and Dormont

  • Beautiful, established neighborhoods with tree-lined streets

  • Great schools in Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair

  • Convenient shopping and entertainment options

Cons:

  • The “hills” are real—some steep terrain can make driving or walking more difficult in winter

  • Commute times can vary depending on traffic

🛠️ Lifestyle Considerations: What’s More Important to You?

Factor North Hills South Hills
Commute to Downtown Fast via I-279 or Rt. 28 T-access or Rt. 19/I-376
Newer Developments More common (Cranberry, Wexford) Fewer, but some in South Fayette
Green Spaces North Park South Park
Schools North Allegheny, Pine-Richland Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair
Walkability Less walkable overall More walkable in Mt. Lebanon, Dormont

🏁 Final Thoughts

The North Hills and South Hills both offer incredible places to live, raise a family, or invest in your future. The right choice really comes down to what matters most to you—commute, community vibe, schools, or access to amenities.

Not sure which side is best for you? I’d love to help you explore both and make a move with confidence.

 

👉 Contact me today for a personalized consultation. Let’s find the perfect Pittsburgh neighborhood for your next chapter.