If you’re beginning your home search in Pittsburgh — whether for work, family, or a fresh start — the North Hills suburbs are one of the best places to begin. Wexford, Gibsonia, Pine Township, Mars, Bradford Woods and Cranberry Township consistently attract luxury buyers who want newer neighborhoods, easy commutes, top‑rated schools, and a lifestyle that feels both modern and grounded.
As someone who was born and raised in the North Hills — and who has raised her own family here — I’ve spent my entire life watching these communities grow, evolve, and flourish. After years of helping families relocate to the region, I can tell you firsthand: the North Hills offers a balance that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Here’s what buyers wish they knew before they started their search — and why this part of Pittsburgh continues to shine.
Easy Commutes Without Tunnel Traffic
One of the biggest surprises for relocation buyers is how simple Pittsburgh commutes really are. Many North Hills neighborhoods — especially in Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and Cranberry Township — are just 20–25 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh, and you don’t have to deal with tunnels.
For professionals working in:
- Downtown Pittsburgh
- Oakland’s medical and university district
- Cranberry’s corporate corridor
- North Shore tech and finance hubs
…the North Hills offers quick, predictable travel times that make everyday life easier.
Growing up here, I watched my own parents commute with ease — and now my clients are often shocked by how manageable it is compared to other major cities.
Top‑Rated School Districts: A Major Draw for Families
Schools are one of the biggest reasons families choose the North Hills. The region is home to several of Pennsylvania’s highest‑performing districts:
- North Allegheny School District (Wexford, McCandless, Franklin Park)
- Pine‑Richland School District (Pine Township, Gibsonia)
- Mars Area School District (Mars, Valencia)
- Seneca Valley School District (Cranberry Township, Evans City)
These districts consistently earn top marks for academics, athletics, arts, and college preparation. Yes, Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair are excellent too — but they come with a different commute pattern and a different lifestyle feel.
As a lifelong North Hills resident, I’ve watched these districts grow into some of the most respected in the state — and they remain one of the strongest drivers of long‑term home value.
Newer Neighborhoods, Sidewalk Communities & Modern Amenities
Many North Hills suburbs feature newer construction, planned communities, and walkable neighborhoods — something relocation buyers often don’t expect from Pittsburgh.
You’ll find:
- Sidewalk communities
- Cul‑de‑sacs designed for families
- Newer homes with modern layouts
- Community pools, clubhouses, and trails
- Parks, playgrounds, and green spaces woven into neighborhoods
Builders such as Infinity Custom Homes, Eddy Homes, Benjamin Marcus Homes, and Heartland Luxury Homes have shaped much of the modern North Hills landscape, creating communities that feel fresh, cohesive, and thoughtfully planned.
More Space for the Money Compared to Other Major Cities
One of the biggest advantages of moving to Pittsburgh — especially the North Hills — is the value.
Compared to markets like Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York, or Chicago, Pittsburgh offers:
- Larger lots
- More square footage
- Lower property taxes
- A lower cost of living
- A stable, predictable housing market
Choose your suburb, and everything else tends to fall into place. Whether you want wooded privacy, a sidewalk neighborhood, or a master‑planned community, the North Hills has options at every luxury price point.
Strong Resale Value & Market Stability
Pittsburgh is known for its steady, predictable real estate market. We don’t experience the dramatic highs and lows seen in other cities. Instead, home values in the North Hills typically show consistent year‑over‑year growth, supported by:
- High‑performing school districts
- Strong household incomes
- Low unemployment
- A diverse job market
- Long‑term community stability
For luxury buyers, this means confidence — both in your purchase and in your future resale value.
A Lifestyle That’s Hard to Beat
The North Hills offers a lifestyle that blends convenience, community, and comfort. You’ll find:
- Parks and trails
- Local coffee shops
- Boutique fitness studios
- Family‑owned restaurants
- Farmers markets
- Community events
- Easy access to shopping and healthcare
It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other, kids ride bikes on sidewalks, and weekends are spent exploring parks, grabbing brunch, or enjoying local festivals.
As someone who has lived this lifestyle her entire life, I can say with certainty: the North Hills is special.
Why People Fall in Love With Pittsburgh — And the North Hills
Moving to Pittsburgh is often about family, jobs, education, healthcare, and quality of life. But once you settle in, you’ll notice something else: the people.
Pittsburghers are famously warm, welcoming, and down‑to‑earth. Combine that with top schools, easy commutes, newer neighborhoods, and a stable luxury market, and it’s easy to see why so many buyers fall in love with the North Hills.
Whether you’re relocating from out of state or simply moving across town, the North Hills offers a lifestyle that feels both elevated and approachable — and I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions About the North Hills
Is the North Hills a luxury market?
Yes — Wexford, Pine Township, Franklin Park, Gibsonia, Mars, and Cranberry Township all have strong luxury segments supported by high incomes, top schools, and newer housing.
Are commutes really that easy?
They are. Many North Hills neighborhoods are 20–25 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh without tunnels.
Which school districts are the best?
North Allegheny, Pine‑Richland, Mars, and Seneca Valley consistently rank among Pennsylvania’s top districts.
Is the market stable?
Very. Pittsburgh is known for steady appreciation and predictable resale value.
What’s the lifestyle like?
Parks, trails, coffee shops, restaurants, community events, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.