For many aspiring buyers—especially those purchasing for the first time—today's market can feel out of reach. Prices continue to rise, mortgage rates are elevated, and in many areas, homeownership may feel less feasible. But there’s one area quietly standing out for all the right reasons: Pittsburgh. It may not garner as many headlines as New York or D.C., but when it comes to affordability, the Steel City is making a strong case for itself.

Right now, the median home price in Pittsburgh is nearly half of the national median. Prices are rising – about 7% over the past year – but compared to most large metro areas, Pittsburgh still offers buyers something rare: affordability.

What really sets it apart is the relationship between home prices and local incomes. In Pittsburgh, the typical family only needs to spend 14% of their income on a mortgage. Nationally, it’s closer to 25%. That difference is substantial – it means a typical Pittsburgh buyer can actually afford a home that’s 80% more expensive than the local median. Nationally? That number is just 3% above the median price. So, when we talk about real affordability, Pittsburgh is at the top of the list among more than 200 metro areas.

  • Monthly mortgage payment: $1,180
  • Qualifying Income: $56,740
  • Median family income: $102,030

Focusing on first-time buyers, 45% of renters aged 25-34 can afford to buy a median-priced home right now. Lower home prices mean manageable monthly payments, and local incomes are actually keeping pace with housing costs—a rarity in most metropolitan areas today. Even as mortgage rates remain elevated, a home in Pittsburgh still feels within reach for many buyers, which is important.

In the meantime, this is an area that is not only affordable but also growing. Not only has Pittsburgh recovered all the jobs lost during the pandemic, but more professionals are moving into the area than leaving, keeping the local housing market solid.

Pittsburgh is a steady and affordable market, and in 2025, that combination is gold. Whether you’re starting out or looking for a place to buy a home, it might be time to take a closer look at Pittsburgh.

Stay tuned next month as we spotlight another local market that is defying national trends. In the meantime, you can explore more metro-level housing statistics, affordability data, and demographics.