NYC family considering relocating (Pittsburgh, Lebanon: appointed, neighborhood, elementary schools)

[rayona]

My husband and I have lived in Manhattan for 20 years and are thinking of moving to Pittsburgh for a career opportunity. This would obviously be huge change for us, as we love our 24-hour, walk-everywhere lifestyle. I have a laundry list of wants but I have no idea if they are even possible.

Schools--I would love a high-quality, walking-distance neighborhood school. Ours kids are 2,5 and 7 so elementary schools are our major focus. It seems like most people opt for private as soon as they can afford it. Is that an accurate perception? Will we be disappointed in public school if we are coming from a really excellent one?

Cars--Could we get away with having just one? Or not needing to drive every day? My ideal is to be able to walk to school, coffee (not Starbucks), grocery and maybe a couple of restaurants. My husband's office would be near the Heinz History Center.

Parks--Again, the ideal is to be within walking distance for small kids.

After-school activities--My kids currently take painting, drumming, science and swimming at school and hockey and baseball off-site.

Commute--I don't know, maybe 20 minutes? Right now we're a five minute walk from the office. I realize that's not going to happen.

'tude--We want somewhere that's open and liberal but not all juice bars and Pilates studios. A fitness obsessed neighborhood wouldn't be a good fit nor would a place where church or the country club are the major social highlights.

Community center--We have one around the corner and use it all the time. It would be great to have one nearby but it isn't a deal breaker.

[Moby Hick]

We're a simple people. We laugh, we sing, we dance.

[rayona]

But do you have to drive there?

[norcider]

Sounds like you'd like Sewickley, get in line.

[guy2073]

Sounds like my Lebanon to me would be a good fit. I am not sure of the walking distance from the wood street t stop to the history center, but it fills a lot of your other needs.

[emm74]

Check out the Squirrel Hill area in Pittsburgh. It's a great family neighborhood with the types of amenities you described including a very walkable lifestyle.

[eschaton]

What's your budget exactly? That makes a big difference here. Once we know that, we'll be able to make better suggestions.

[Moby Hick]

Originally Posted by rayona

But do you have to drive there?

I live in Squirrel Hill. I don't have to drive everywhere. I do quite a bit by bus or walking.

[gladhands]

Shadyside

[rayona]

Originally Posted by eschaton

What's your budget exactly? That makes a big difference here. Once we know that, we'll be able to make better suggestions.

Preferably under $800,000 for 4 bed/2 bath.