Pittsburgh vs Cleveland: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More

You might be weighing the pros and cons of moving into a house in Pittsburgh or an apartment in Cleveland, two cities with industrial histories and exciting cultural scenes. Pittsburgh offers scenic rivers and a growing tech industry, while Cleveland provides a more affordable cost of living with a strong sports culture. Whether you’re eyeing Pittsburgh’s bridges or Cleveland’s lakefront living, choosing the right place to call home can be tough.

In this Redfin article, we’ll compare real estate prices, job opportunities, cost of living, and more to help you decide which city is better suited for your next home purchase.

Housing in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Pittsburgh and Cleveland share similarities in their industrial roots and affordable housing markets, but there are some key differences to consider when comparing real estate and cost of living between these two cities.

Housing in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s housing market is diverse, offering a mix of historic homes, row houses, and modern condos. With a variety of neighborhoods ranging from the trendy Lawrenceville to the more suburban feel of Mount Lebanon, Pittsburgh provides many options for buyers and renters alike. The city’s revitalization has made certain areas more desirable, but overall, Pittsburgh remains one of the more affordable cities to live in, especially compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Median home cost: The median home sale price in Pittsburgh is around $218,000, offering affordability across its neighborhoods.
Average rental cost: The average rent in Pittsburgh is about $1,602 per month, making it an attractive option for those looking for budget-friendly city living.

Housing in Cleveland

Cleveland’s real estate market is known for its affordability, with spacious homes and a variety of architectural styles available. From historic houses in Shaker Heights to modern condos downtown, Cleveland provides many opportunities to find affordable housing with more space compared to other cities. The cost of living remains low, and buyers can often get more property for their money, particularly in the suburbs.

Median home cost: The median home sale price in Cleveland is around $125,000, making it one of the more affordable cities for homeowners.
Average rental cost: Renting an apartment in Cleveland averages around $1,536 per month, offering even more affordable living than Pittsburgh.

Cost of living in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

The cost of living in Pittsburgh is about 8% higher than in Cleveland, with key differences in utilities, transportation, and housing contributing to this gap.

1. Utilities

Utilities in Pittsburgh are about 23% more expensive than in Cleveland. Pittsburgh’s hilly terrain and older housing stock tend to drive up heating and electricity costs, particularly during the cold winters. In contrast, Cleveland’s more temperate location and newer construction help keep utility bills lower throughout the year.

2. Groceries

Groceries in Pittsburgh are approximately 2% less expensive than in Cleveland. Although the difference is small, Pittsburgh’s slightly higher demand for organic and specialty foods can lead to higher prices in certain areas. Cleveland, with its more affordable grocery options, typically offers lower prices overall.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs are about 9% higher in Pittsburgh compared to Cleveland. While Pittsburgh’s public transportation system continues to improve, it remains less convenient and more costly than Cleveland’s. Additionally, parking fees in Pittsburgh, particularly in downtown areas, are higher than in Cleveland.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare in Pittsburgh is around 2% less expensive than in Cleveland. Despite Pittsburgh’s reputation for top-tier hospitals and specialized services, Cleveland still has slightly higher healthcare costs, though both cities offer quality healthcare options.

5. Lifestyle

Lifestyle expenses in Pittsburgh are comparable to those in Cleveland. While Pittsburgh’s arts and tech scenes are growing, making certain entertainment and leisure activities more expensive, Cleveland offers similar experiences—particularly in sports and the arts—at more affordable price points.

Pittsburgh vs Cleveland in size and population: Two Midwestern neighbors

Pittsburgh and Cleveland, two industrial powerhouses of the Midwest, differ in size and population. Pittsburgh covers around 58 square miles and is home to approximately 303,000 residents, resulting in a compact, hilly cityscape. Cleveland, larger in both land and population, spans about 82 square miles with around 376,000 residents. Both cities offer rich cultural and industrial histories, but Cleveland’s larger area and slightly bigger population provide a more expansive urban feel compared to Pittsburgh’s smaller, more intimate layout.

Weather and climate in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Pittsburgh’s climate and Cleveland’s climate both experience all four seasons, but their proximity to bodies of water creates some weather differences. Pittsburgh, with its rivers and hilly terrain, has cold winters with moderate snowfall, while Cleveland, located on the shores of Lake Erie, often faces harsher winters with heavier lake-effect snow. Summers in both cities are warm and humid, but Cleveland’s lakeside location can also moderate temperatures slightly. Both cities deal with severe weather, including thunderstorms in the warmer months and the occasional snowstorm in winter, though Cleveland’s proximity to the lake intensifies its winter conditions.

The job market in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Pittsburgh: A growing tech and healthcare hub

Pittsburgh’s job market has transitioned from its industrial roots to a focus on healthcare, education, and tech. With an employment rate of around 61% and a median household income of $66,000, the city offers an average hourly wage of $29.60. Pittsburgh’s healthcare sector, led by UPMC, and its growing tech industry, anchored by companies like Google and Duolingo, provide numerous job opportunities. The city’s strong educational institutions, including Carnegie Mellon University, also contribute to a skilled workforce, making Pittsburgh a hub for tech innovation and healthcare excellence.

Cleveland: Healthcare and manufacturing powerhouse

Cleveland’s job market is driven by healthcare and manufacturing, with Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals leading as the region’s top employers. The city’s employment rate is around 54%, with a median household income of $39,000 and an average hourly wage of $30.37. Cleveland’s industrial roots remain strong, with significant opportunities in manufacturing and logistics. In recent years, Cleveland has also made strides in developing its healthcare sector, which continues to grow and diversify, offering stable employment in a range of healthcare services. The city’s affordability makes it an attractive option for workers across various industries.

Transportation in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Pittsburgh: Transit-heavy with car options

Pittsburgh has a robust public transit system provided by the Port Authority of Allegheny County, including buses and light rail, commonly referred to as the “T.” While Pittsburgh is walkable in its downtown areas, its hilly terrain makes biking and walking more challenging in other neighborhoods. Driving is still common, with many residents relying on cars, though parking can be limited in busier areas.

Walk Score: 62
Bike Score: 55
Transit Score: 55

Cleveland: Car-friendly with public transit options

Cleveland’s public transportation system, operated by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), offers buses and a rapid transit rail system, providing access to downtown and surrounding suburbs. The city is generally more car-friendly, with wider streets and ample parking available in most areas. Biking is growing in popularity, particularly along the city’s scenic waterfront.

Walk Score: 57
Bike Score: 52
Transit Score: 44

Travel in and out of Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Both cities are well-connected for regional and national travel, with access to major highways, airports, and train routes.

Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh International Airport, Amtrak’s Capitol Limited and Pennsylvanian routes, Greyhound, and Megabus services.
Cleveland: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Amtrak’s Capitol Limited and Lake Shore Limited routes, Greyhound, and Megabus.

Lifestyle and things to do in Pittsburgh and Cleveland

A day in the life of a Pittsburgher

Pittsburgh offers a dynamic mix of urban life and scenic outdoor spaces, making it an attractive place to live. Mornings in Pittsburgh might start with a walk along the city’s famous rivers or a coffee in the Strip District before heading to work in one of the city’s growing tech or healthcare industries. Pittsburgh’s rich cultural heritage can be seen in its numerous museums, theaters, and sports venues. On weekends, residents enjoy exploring the city’s many parks, such as Schenley Park or kayaking along the three rivers. The food scene is diverse, with everything from classic pierogies to contemporary cuisine at local eateries.

Top things to do in Pittsburgh:

Visit the Andy Warhol Museum
Tour the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History
Catch a game at PNC Park or Heinz Field
Explore the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline

Google Street View inside the Andy Warhol Museum

Pittsburgh parks and green spaces:

Kayak along the Allegheny River
Hike through Schenley Park
Picnic at Point State Park
Walk through Frick Park
Visit Highland Park Reservoir

Google Street View of Point State Park

Pittsburgh tourist attractions:

PNC Park
The Andy Warhol Museum
Carnegie Science Center
Point State Park
The Duquesne Incline

A day in the life of a Clevelander

Living in Cleveland means enjoying the best of city life with easy access to nature. Residents often start the day with a walk or jog along the Lake Erie shoreline or the Cleveland Metroparks. Cleveland’s rich music history, particularly in rock and roll, is reflected in its vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, museums, and a robust food scene. On weekends, locals enjoy visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or taking in a Browns or Cavaliers game. Outdoor activities are plentiful, with Lake Erie offering opportunities for kayaking, sailing, or simply relaxing on the waterfront.

Top things to do in Cleveland:

Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art
Take in a game at Progressive Field or Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse
Tour the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Enjoy a live performance at Playhouse Square

Google Street View of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Cleveland parks and green spaces:

Walk or bike the Cleveland Metroparks trails
Kayak on Lake Erie
Picnic at Edgewater Park
Explore the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
Visit Huntington Beach

Google Street View of the the Cleveland Cultural Gardens

Cleveland tourist attractions:

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Progressive Field
Playhouse Square

Food and culture in Pittsburgh vs Cleveland

Pittsburgh: The Steel City

Pittsburgh’s food scene has evolved beyond its traditional roots, offering a mix of classic comfort food and innovative cuisine. Known for iconic dishes like pierogies and Primanti Brothers sandwiches, the city also boasts a growing number of trendy restaurants in neighborhoods like the Strip District and Lawrenceville. Pittsburgh’s vibrant arts and cultural scene is reflected in events like the Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival and the Three Rivers Arts Festival, which celebrate the city’s diverse heritage. The city’s museums, such as the Carnegie Museum of Art, and its thriving music and theater communities make Pittsburgh a cultural destination for locals and visitors alike.

Cleveland: A culinary and cultural renaissance

Cleveland’s food scene is undergoing a renaissance, with chefs bringing new life to the city’s culinary landscape. The city’s Eastern European influences remain strong, with pierogies and kielbasa continuing to be local favorites. Cleveland also offers diverse dining options, from upscale eateries to food trucks. The West Side Market is a popular destination for food lovers. Cleveland’s cultural scene is equally rich, with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and Playhouse Square offering world-class music, art, and theater experiences. Festivals like the Cleveland International Film Festival and the Taste of Cleveland further highlight the city’s growing reputation as a cultural hotspot.

Pittsburgh vs Cleveland sports scene

Pittsburgh: Steel City sports pride

Pittsburgh is a city that lives and breathes sports, with the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates representing the city’s rich athletic tradition. Football reigns supreme in Pittsburgh, with the Steelers drawing one of the most dedicated fan bases in the NFL. The Penguins have a storied history in the NHL, while the Pirates offer a more relaxed but passionate following at PNC Park, one of the most scenic ballparks in the country. Pittsburgh’s sports culture is deeply connected to its identity, with fans fiercely loyal to their teams, creating a vibrant, year-round sports atmosphere.

Cleveland: A city with grit and loyalty

Cleveland’s sports scene is defined by its passionate, loyal fan base. The Cavaliers, Browns, and Guardians are central to the city’s sports culture, with the Browns in particular uniting the city every Sunday during football season. The Cavaliers brought a championship to Cleveland in 2016, sparking renewed energy in the city’s basketball fandom. Progressive Field and FirstEnergy Stadium are popular venues for baseball and football fans, respectively. Cleveland’s sports culture, marked by its resilience and devotion, is a source of pride and unity for the city.

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