Moving from Chicago to Pittsburgh (Bethel Park, Dormont: houses, universities, diversity)

[kjay88]

Hi everyone! This is my first time on this Forum, so I apologize if this question has been asked before.
I currently live outside of Chicago and am hoping to move to the Pittsburgh area next year, in 2010. I am recently divorced, will be 30 in October, with no kids. I'm a HUGE Steelers fan and just fall in love with the area a little more every time I'm there. Crafton would be the ideal place for me, with the older houses and brick streets. However, I am sad to say that I know little more than that about the area. I have been looking at Stowe Township as well but I think I'd like to stay in Allegheny Township. I am looking to buy, rather than rent, since I'll be able to turn my current house over to my ex-husband and not have to worry about selling it here first. I'm looking to pay less than $150K (I hope that's enough) and would like a decent sized yard, big enough for a large dog. I don't necessarily care about school systems, since if and when that day comes, I could always move. I just want a place where I can finally feel at home.

[COPANUT]

Plenty of homes under 150K in Stowe township. Don't follow you on Allegheny Townhip, do you mean Allegheny County or Allegheny Township in Westmoreland County?

[kjay88]

Sorry. I meant Allegheny County.

[Chef for Life]

Crafton / Ingram is a great area for older houses with some yard space. Although there are a lot of houses in Pittsburgh that are very old. Carnegie, Scott twp, Bethel Park to name a few.

These are all on the bus line or trolley line if public transportation is important.

Allegheny county has the highest tax base in the area, consider looking into washington county, butler county, and beaver county. you'll find older homes (minus the brick roads) and lots of property.

[beaglet22]

If I was in your shoes (I used to live in Chicago) I would try to find something in Shadyside or Squirrel Hill..a little pricey but there are some deals, especially now. Alot to do, walking distance shops, dog friendly, city but fun. The universities are there with the entertainment you can find at a university...classes, theater, diversity of all kinds. The suburbs anywhere in Pgh are family oriented and can get BORING. Point Breeze is right next to Squirrel Hill and is more affordable. Check it out.

[ExPit]

Try Dormont, and good luck. I hope you find a good place for yourself.