If you think that once you've decided to move to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you're pretty much finished the decision making process, think again. Before you can even consider putting your home in the real estate listings for Markham, Ontario, you need to figure out where exactly in Pittsburgh you're going to want to live. It's a big city with more than 90 neighborhoods, each with its own feel, demographic, home styles, and amenities. It can be pretty daunting to comb through them all, so ask your realtor's advice or start with an overview like this one.

Downtown

Also known as the Golden Triangle, this area of the city is notable for its population density and its connection to the commercial heart of Pittsburgh. If you're coming from a Toronto condominium and want to keep the feel of your old neighborhood, look downtown, as its where the majority of the high rises are. Aesthetically this area is enhanced by the Allegheny River and the Riverpark and contains a lot of historic buildings.

North Side

Once a separate entity known as Allegheny City, the North Side of Pittsburgh is notable for its 19th century architecture. There are a few attractions in this part of the city, but most of its neighborhoods are almost exclusively residential. The older brickwork and stone row houses evoke a feel not unlike Toronto's St. Lawrence Market. Condos and detached homes can also be found here, but in lesser quantities. Some neighborhoods in this area are or were once economically depressed, but are on their way up.

South Side

The South Side was once home to a mill and the cheap housing that belonged to the workers, but over the years real estate here has increased in value until this district became the most popular in the city, with more home sales per year than even Royal Lepage Real Estate Oshawa. Here you will find older Victorian homes as well as ethnic enclaves and shopping districts.

East End

A more accurate name for Pittsburgh's east end would be University Row, since four universities and numerous museums and institutes are located here. Neighborhoods range from affordable student apartment clusters to expensive detached home communities with large lots, though not as large as you might find in Port Perry real estate. Amenities here include clubs, restaurants, markets, schools, and museums.

West End

The west end of Pittsburgh is most famous for its views. Perched on a hill overlooking downtown, the skyline features prominently in real estate pitches for neighborhoods in this area. Green space is another major selling point here, as the Garden City movement has made its mark here. This area is primarily residential and features large lots and homes in the Victorian and Prairie styles.