Seriously? I'm originially from Pittsburgh. It's a great town. The best neighborhoods in the city are Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, and Point Breeze. Bloomfield is "up and coming" and Oakland is more of a college-town. Pittsburgh's City Theatre is actually quite good if you like theater, and going to see the Pirates play (if you like baseball) is fantastic because the ballpark is beautiful.

Funny - I am from outside of the Burgh and went to college there. I agree with the Squirrel Hill and Shadyside votes from Michael. But they can be expensive. I don't know much about Point Breeze or Bloomfield. Around the Squirell Hill, Shadyside area you can find inexpensive stuff that is not right in the heart of them. And the bus system between those places and downtown is actually better than Bay area (unless I am just nostalgic).

Thanks for your suggestions on neighborhoods. I am thinking about buying something small in the city and a country house on a lake or river not too far from the city. My two daughters, will both be starting college and I want to have a home wthat will entice them to visit.

I am a Pittsburgher transplanted to Boston, but I'm a huge fan of my hometown. The Economist recently published an article about Pittsburgh, stating that the city is showing a lot of promise these days (finally) because of its low cost of living and its location relative to other east coast cities - it may become a hub of distribution centers. It is also finally starting to retain its college graduates, and quite frankly, its abundance of "old people" is being naturally replaced by the young.

As far as where to live in the city, I would also suggest Shadyside or Squirrel Hill. For the vacation home near a body of water, I would look in Washington or Fayette Counties, south of the city. Good luck!

I’m From Pittsburgh i waz born there its a great place and if you have kids they will love the snow and sometimes you will to