1. Plan The Best Route
If you’re not familiar with the terrain, then driving in Pittsburgh can be a bit of a challenge thanks to its many bridges, steep hills, multiple crisscrossing highways, and maze of roads. Before you begin your trek to the “City of Bridges”, it’s good to plan out the optimal route for reaching your new home – especially if you happen to be pulling a trailer behind your vehicle or driving a rented moving van. As much as GPS navigation is great, it often chooses the fastest route to reach your destination. You want the route that is going to best accommodate you and your moving needs.
2. Get to Know the Many Neighborhoods
Pittsburgh not only has lots of bridges, roads, rivers, and museums, it also has a lot of great neighborhoods. Each of these neighborhoods has its own unique charm and flavor. Downtown Pittsburgh is the place for arts and entertainment, Mt. Washington offers the best view of the city, and Regent Square is the spot for local shops and restaurants. Shadyside and Squirrel Hill area has it all, including fine dining, coffee shops, historical sights, parks, and green spaces. Pick a day and go explore what these wonderful neighborhoods have to offer.
3. Be Ready for Winter
If you’re originally from warmer climates and don’t have much in the way of a winter wardrobe, then you’ll need to do some clothes shopping before you move. Since Pittsburgh is surrounded by rivers, winters can be pretty cold with lots of snow. If you’re new to such weather, it may take some time to get used to it. Being prepared with the right attire will help you quickly acclimate to your new surroundings.
4. Learn the Language
Like any city, Pittsburgh has its own unique dialect. Unlike most cities, Steel City’s dialect is lovingly referred to by a clever nickname: “Pittsburghese”. Before you make the move to “The ‘Burgh”, be sure to brush up on such key local phrases “Yinz” (similar to “y’all”), “Pop” (any soda or soft drink), “Red Up” (clean up), “Bumbershoot” (umbrella) and many more. Pretty soon, you’ll sound like a life-long Pittsburgh resident.
5. Break the Ice
Pittsburgh is passionate about its home teams so prepare to see lots of sports spirit when it’s game day for the Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates. If you want to fit right in and break the ice with your neighbors, a great way to do so is to root for the local teams. Even if you’re not a sports fanatic, you can connect with your new neighbors, coworkers, and friends by wearing the Pittsburgh black and gold colors in your attire or your accessories to show your support. Follow those five tips for relocating to Pittsburgh and you’ll feel right at home in no time. If you’re making the move and need to find an apartment, then consider Shadyside Commons. Located in the desirable Shadyside neighborhood, our award-winning luxury apartments in Pittsburgh are an ideal new home for anyone relocating. Take a virtual tour of your new home today!