With its stunning architecture and world-famous urban views, it’s easy to forget that Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was once one of the USA’s centers of industry.
These days, its sports and cultural attractions make Pittsburgh an attractive choice for international students. And with a number of top universities in the area, if you’re hoping to live in the USA, we think this is a city well worth considering.
What is Pittsburgh like?
Location and demographics
Found inland in the north-eastern USA in Appalachia, Pittsburgh is positioned at the point where the Allegherry River and Monogahela River meet to become the great Ohio River. Given this location and its 446 crossing points, it’s perhaps not surprising that it is known as the City of Bridges.
Pittsburgh’s 300,000 residents enjoy hot summers and cool winters and are able to make the most of every season – both in the city and in its beautiful rural surroundings.
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Culture and history
Pittsburgh was historically one of the industrial capitals of the USA, producing large amounts of steel, allowing the city to boom economically. These days it has a more diverse economy, still with a heavy focus on science, technology and engineering.
Learn more about Pittsburgh at one of the city’s many museums. Or, if you prefer art, there’s plenty to see, with art museums and galleries dotted throughout its neighbourhoods. You won’t want to miss the world-famous Carnegie Museum of Art or the Andy Warhol Museum.
For those on a tighter budget, simply take a walk down Pittsburgh’s streets to admire the public art and the phenomenal architecture, including a number of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings. Or wait for the city to hold a festival, many of these are free.
Over the years, Pittsburgh has been home to a number of famous people including Andy Warhol, Jeff Goldblum and Wiz Khalifa.
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What universities are in Pittsburgh?
Carnegie Mellon University is a private university ranked in 28th place globally by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023. This institution is a world-leader in technology, specifically AI innovation. Notable alumni include 12 Nobel laureates and 13 Turing Award recipients.
The University of Pittsburgh is a public university ranked 144 by THE 2023. This institution has strong teams across all fields of academic research. Notable alumni include the likes of Gene Kelly, Wangari Maathai and Vladimir Zworykin.
Other universities in Pittsburgh include:
- Duquesne University – a private university ranked 151 in the US News & World Report 2022
- Chatham University – a private university ranked joint 194 in USNWR 2022
If you are prepared to look beyond Pittsburgh itself, you may wish to consider:
- Robert Morris University – a private university ranked joint 194 in USNWR 2022, located in Moon Township, just outside the city and near to the airport.
- Pennsylvania State University – a public university, located in central Pennsylvania, ranked number 93 in QS World University Rankings 2023.
If you are hoping to apply to a community college to obtain an associate degree in Pittsburgh, consider the Community College of Allegheny County.
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What does Pittsburgh offer students?
What is transport like?
Pittsburgh is a town you can easily walk or cycle around but as it is hilly in areas, you will almost certainly want to make use of public transport from time to time. In Pittsburgh, this is usually buses or light rail services.
Travel is free between Downtown and the North Shore on light rail. For all other journeys, purchase your tickets when you board. Tickets give you unlimited journeys for a three-hour period. For longer or more regular travel, consider a multi-journey pass or a Connect Card, a pre-paid smartcard for use on buses and light rail.
If your university participates in the scheme, you may also be able to get a U-Pass, giving you access to free or discounted rides.
Pittsburgh International Airport links the city quickly to the rest of the USA and a few international destinations including London Heathrow.
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What about entertainment and food?
Pittsburgh was recently named by BBC Good Food as one of the top 10 foodie destinations in the world.
From breakfast through to late night bites, you won’t struggle to find delicious food anywhere in Pittsburgh, whether you want to eat in a low-key diner, high-end restaurant or simply get a takeaway. And if you’re looking for local produce to cook with at home, look no further than the city’s delightful farmer’s markets and community gardens.
When it comes to nightlife, Pittsburgh doesn’t disappoint. The city has hundreds of bars, nightclubs and pubs where you can pass the time with friends and a drink. If you want some local flavours, visit one of the wineries, breweries or whiskey distilleries.
Are there public services for students?
Studying in Pittsburgh, you’ll be able to access government, state and university resources to help you navigate your way through life at a US university.
The US government provides free information to assist international students. Access student resources via the US Department of State website. Or explore financial aid options across Pittsburgh with Education USA’s helpful tool.
Your university’s international office will be able to assist you with any queries or concerns you have, from visa issues to settling into life in Pittsburgh.
Get more information on how to apply for a student visa in the USA.
How much does it cost to live in Pittsburgh?
The general cost of Pittsburgh
Cost of living in Pittsburgh sits at just above average for the USA. Housing costs are typically low, but everyday expenses are comparatively high. With this in mind, you’ll need to have a sensible budget drawn up to see you through your studies.
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Student budget
Studying in the USA, international students are subject to a number of upfront costs, such as health insurance and visa fees. But once those are settled, Carnegie Mellon University suggests an annual costs of around USD 18,000 – USD 20,000 to live in Pittsburgh.
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What is accommodation like in Pittsburgh?
In the USA, most people choose to live on-campus for the famous student experience. Costs can vary significantly between universities and more prestigious institutions often charge more. Of course, the benefit of campus living is that your bills will typically be included in your rent.
For an approximation of accommodation costs in Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University suggests your annual rental budget for a room on-campus should be around USD 9,200.
Need to find out how to apply to study in the USA.
What are Pittsburgh’s main attractions?
With so much to explore and do in the city, Pittsburgh is a great study destination. So, if you’re wanting to learn more about the sort of attractions Pittsburgh has for students, read on.
Sports fans will have plenty to keep themselves occupied – Pittsburgh is regularly ranked in the top five sporting cities in the US. It has major league teams in NFL, baseball and ice hockey and a number of pro teams in other sports.
Pittsburgh is a pleasingly outdoorsy city, surrounded by green. So if you’re sporty yourself, why not cycle, walk or run in the city’s stunning parks or along its waterways? Or try something different and rent a kayak.
Alternatively, take in the picturesque city skyline simply by walking the famed steps of Pittsburgh or head up to Mount Oliver in the evening for an unrivalled urban view. Another fun attraction is the famous Pittsburgh inclines – 2 funicular railways offering a vintage method of absorbing the city’s beauty.
For those preferring indoor activities, Pittsburgh’s performing arts scene is exceptional. Many of its theatres and performance venues are architecturally stunning before you even step inside. Once in, you’ll have a choice of theatre, dance and musical performances that will captivate you long after you’ve left.
Whatever your interests, we feel sure that this beautiful and vibrant city will not leave you disappointed.
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