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Moving to Pittsburgh


Where to start

We recommend that students read all information posted at this web page, and read CMU's Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Housing Handbook prior to beginning their housing search.

When to move?

We recommend that students allow ample time for their housing search, moving-in activities, and getting settled in Pittsburgh. It is important that you give yourself enough time to be settled prior to the start of Heinz onboarding and classes.

Fall 2024 Semester Incoming Students: Early August 2024

Moving in the summer?

Moving to Pittsburgh in the summer?  You may want to consider subletting an apartment for a short term before signing a one year lease. This option gives you the opportunity to get to know campus and the area, and spend more time researching where to live. There are great opportunities for you to sublet a current Heinz student apartment over the summer as they complete summer internships in other cities. Current students post sublet opportunities on the Heinz College Housing Facebook page.

On-Campus Housing

The University does not provide on-campus housing specifically for graduate students. However, there are sometimes undergraduate dorm rooms available for graduate students. This will depend entirely upon the undergraduate-population. The rooms are in a standard dorm-style setting. There are no private rooms, and families are not able to stay in the dorm. You will find details on the Graduate Student housing page. Please direct any questions to the Housing Office directly. Even with this as an option, only a very small percentage of Heinz students stay on campus during the school year. To assist those students who cannot find on-campus housing, the University provides an off-campus housing website.

Choosing an Apartment

The majority of graduate students live off-campus in an apartment, with some students sharing a house off-campus. The city of Pittsburgh offers safe, affordable housing very close to the University. In fact, the majority of students live (very affordably) in the neighboring, upscale town of Shadyside. We periodically survey current Heinz students to bring you the most up-to-date information on where to live, and how much you should expect to pay.

Searching for a Roommate/Housemate

By connecting through the Heinz College and CMU networks you will be able to meet other new incoming students who could be a future roommate or housemate. Ensure you join the Heinz College Housing Facebook page to meet Heinzers. You can also connect with others in the CMU Community through the CMU Housing Roommate search tool.

Moving to Pittsburgh with children?

Carnegie Mellon University supports students and their families. We've compiled a list of relevant University-offered benefits, information about child care, and resources helpful to parents and families.  Please click here for the resources: https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/current-grad-students/graduate-partners-spouses-families/graduate-students-with-children/ 

Additional Relocation Resources

  • Free 20-minute CMU sponsored legal consultation session with an attorney on lease contracts, landlords and tenants rights
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIFE IN PITTSBURGH

View our admitted student video, "Welcome to our Neighborhood!" - A Glimpse into Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Learn more about housing options, the arts, sports, outdoor activities, and the many advantages to living in Pittsburgh here!

Heinz College Student Housing Survey


The information below was compiled following a survey of recent Heinz College students. Percentages (%) are based on the survey responses.

Additional Information for International Students


The Office of International Education is a great resource for our International students who are navigating the apartment rental process in the U.S for the first time. We have included the most popular links on their webpage below.