Exploring Pittsburgh Suburbs: Fox Chapel, Monroeville, Penn Hills

Looking for homes around the City of Bridges? Tucked into the rolling hills and rivers of Western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh accommodates a diverse set of needs. Take advantage of all the city has to offer—like three professional sports teams, local and major brand shopping, a vibrant arts scene, and fine dining—while enjoying the serenity of PA’s landscapes. That is what makes Pittsburgh’s suburbs so unique. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or empty-nester, these suburbs promise a comfortable life just a short distance away from the dynamic culture and career opportunities of the city.

Explore These Suburbs

Fox Chapel | Monroeville | Penn Hills

Get to Know 3 East Pittsburgh Suburbs

Leave Pittsburgh from any direction and you will quickly pass through some pretty fascinating areas. Here are three suburbs to the east of Pittsburgh that you should consider for your move.

Fox Chapel

Population: 5,314

Median Home Value: $769,300

Distance from Pittsburgh: 12 miles (approximately 20-minute drive)

Fox Chapel, one of the most affluent suburbs of Pittsburgh, is a picturesque community known for its stately homes, sprawling estates, and beautifully maintained gardens. Fox Chapel is an oasis of tranquility just a few miles northeast of the city. The area features top-quality schools, a wealth of recreational opportunities, notably the Trillium Trail Nature Reserve and the Squaw Run Creek, and an exclusive country club. Its 20-minute drive into Pittsburgh makes the community perfect for those seeking a quiet residential neighborhood while still enjoying easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural and professional amenities.

Attractions:

• Fox Chapel Golf Club: A prestigious club offering golf, dining, and social events.
• Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve: A large nature reserve perfect for hiking and bird watching.
• Pittsburgh Field Club: Another premier club known for its golfing facilities.

Dining:

• The Hartwood Restaurant & Whispers Pub: Fine dining in a cozy, historical setting.
• Brick & Barrel: A gastropub known for its extensive craft beer selection and gourmet burgers.
• Alta Via: Inspired by the fresh cuisine of Northern Italy, Alta Via offers a menu featuring handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and wood- fired dishes.

 

Monroeville

Population: 28,607

Median Home Value: $161,400

Distance from Pittsburgh: 13 miles (approximately 25-minute drive)

Monroeville is a commuter’s dream, strategically located at the junction of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Parkway East, making downtown Pittsburgh easily accessible. This suburb offers its own array of recreational, shopping, and entertainment options. Notably, the Monroeville Mall, famously featured in the horror movie “Dawn of the Dead,” is a local highlight. Monroeville’s blend of convenience and local amenities makes it a popular choice for those working in the city.

Attractions:

• Monroeville Mall: A large shopping mall with a variety of stores and a rich history.
• Boyce Park: Offers skiing, snowboarding, and a wave pool in the summer.
• Monroeville Convention Center: Hosts various events, expos, and conventions year-round.

Dining:

• DeNunzio’s Italian Trattoria: Elegant dining with a focus on Italian cuisine.
• Moio’s Italian Pastry Shop: Famous for its delicious pastries and baked goods.
• Gateway Grill: Known for its extensive menu and casual dining atmosphere.

 

Penn Hills

Population: 41,132

Median Home Value: $100,700

Distance from Pittsburgh: 9 miles (approximately 20-minute drive)

Just to the east of Pittsburgh, Penn Hills offers the charm of suburban life along with convenient access to the city. This community is a popular settling spot due to its diverse housing options, ranging from quaint starter homes to grand estates, all set amid lush green spaces and rolling hills. The area is home to several parks and recreational facilities—Duff Community Park, Penn Hills Community Park, Universal Park, and more—and a variety of shopping and dining options, which makes Penn Hills an attractive destination for families and professionals alike. With its solid school district and friendly atmosphere, Penn Hills represents the perfect blend of quiet, suburban living and proximity to urban amenities.

Attractions:

• Penn Hills Shopping Center: A convenient shopping destination that includes a variety of stores, restaurants, and services.
• Lincoln Park Community Center: Provides various recreational activities and community events.
• Longue Vue Club and Golf Course: This historic golf club offers a beautiful course and a range of amenities, including dining and event spaces.

Dining:

• Capri Pizza: Known for its delicious pizza and Italian dishes.
• Ladles: A local favorite for hearty soups and comfort food.
• Frankstown Wood Fired Pizza: This restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes.

 

Keep Organized with Defender Self Storage

Once it comes time to plan your move, contact Defender Self Storage to keep it simple. We have a Penn Hills location to serve you—with a Pittsburgh location also now open! You can view all our available storage units online to compare sizes and cost to ensure you stay in budget. Then we you are ready, you can rent or reserve your storage space with us. Take care of everything from your rental to bill pay through our website. Find affordable storage for Penn Hills with Defender Self Storage!

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