Pittsburgh sees more homes but higher prices
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Southwestern Pennsylvania has been building housing to outpace population growth, but rising prices persist.
Why it matters: Housing is emerging as a key topic politically and was likely a deciding factor in Pittsburgh's Democratic mayoral race.
By the numbers: The Pittsburgh metro area increased its number of housing units by 7.1% between 2014 and 2024.
- Its population grew 3.1% in that time, per U.S. Census Bureau data
Zoom out: The number of housing units across the U.S. increased by 9.5% between the same time period, while the population grew by 6.7%.
State of play: Home prices in Pittsburgh are still among the lowest in the nation ($255,000 for a median home as of September), according to data from REMAX, but they are getting higher.
- Median home prices in Pittsburgh rose 8.5% between September 2024 and September 2025.
Between the lines: High mortgage rates over the last few years have depressed supply in many markets.
- If you're a homeowner with an older mortgage locked in at 3% or so, the idea of moving into a new home at double that rate or more isn't exactly attractive.
What's next: A new bipartisan housing bill aims to ease new home construction and boost supply, but the ongoing government shutdown is currently sucking away most of Washington's attention and energy.