Pittsburgh is not commonly thought of as a destination for retirees; however, the city consistently makes the list of best places to live. And it is one of the most beautiful East Coast cities, located at the juncture of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. Pittsburgh is steeped in history, provides a vast cultural experience for residents and remained resilient in the face of the economic decline of 2008 and 2009. One of the most attractive features of this city is its low cost of living, which is particularly desirable for retirees. Pittsburgh is also known for its medical facilities and colleges, and it has distinctive districts, some oriented toward business and some more rural. Pittsburgh is continually noted as one of the world’s most livable and walkable cities, making it ideal for active adults.
The Pittsburgh area has three designated retirement communities. These are Traditions of America at Sewickley Ridge, Traditions of America at Liberty Hills and Cobblestone Village. The area also has several assisted- and independent-living communities including Asbury Heights and the Bethel Park Retirement Community.
Traditions of America at Sewickley Ridge
Traditions of America at Sewickley Ridge offers residents the convenience and diversity of the city and a quiet neighborhood in which to live. The community comprises over 240 homes ranging from $200,000 to $300,000. There are several floor plans available to buyers ranging from just over 1,200 square feet to just over 2,300 square feet. The single-family homes have the most space, but all homes have at least two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Some homes may be customized by residents working with outside builders to add additional square footage and rooms, and some have an attached garage. All homes feature exteriors that are maintenance-free and master suites on the first floor for easy accessibility. Homes also feature energy-saving appliances and a patio or deck, depending on the model.
The heart of this community is occupied by a 7,700-square-foot clubhouse that offers residents resort-style amenities. Within the clubhouse, residents can utilize a fitness center, sauna, game rooms and a catering kitchen. In the outdoors, residents can swim in the heated pool or make use of one of several walking and biking trails that wind throughout the community.
Traditions of America at Liberty Hills
Traditions of America at Liberty Hills is a gated community for active individuals over the age of 55. This community is comprised of more than 220 homes that range from the low to high $300,000s. There are various attached home models available to buyers, as well as various single-family home styles. The smallest of these homes provide just over 1,200 square feet of space and generally have two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two-car garage. The largest of these smaller models, at just over 1,800 square feet, also includes a large family room and a den. Single-family homes offer up to 2,314 square feet and include at least two bedrooms and bathrooms, a breakfast area and an outdoor patio.
At the center of this community is a two-story clubhouse featuring a variety of amenities available to all residents. The clubhouse has a fitness center, game rooms, a media room and a sports bar. In the outdoors, residents can swim in the pool and play bocce ball and shuffleboard. Traditions of America at Liberty Hills also has a full-time activities director who coordinates group activities and personal and cultural events, such as wedding receptions and guest speakers.
Cobblestone Village
Cobblestone Village is a retirement community with an age restriction of 55 or older and is noted for its close proximity to various golfing opportunities. The community’s real estate includes 100 homes that range from the low to high $200,000s. There are various home styles available to buyers that range from 1,325 square feet to over 1,900 square feet. All home materials used are high quality and come with up to 30-year warranties. Most models feature one or two bedrooms and bathrooms. Some models feature luxury amenities including vaulted ceilings, expansive master suites on the first floor, walk-in closets and gas fireplaces.
Cobblestone Village’s clubhouse is centrally located and within easy walking distance of almost every home. The clubhouse offers various amenities including a fitness center and several game rooms. Residents may also plan personal events and activities in one of the clubhouse’s multipurpose rooms. In the outdoors, residents can swim in the community’s heated pool or enjoy a book on the patio.
Asbury Heights
Asbury Heights features assisted-living facilities and independent living apartments and carriage homes. Studio apartments feature one large room with designated kitchen, bathroom and sleeping areas. Larger apartments have one or two bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchenette. Carriage homes are also available within the community, and offer one or two bedrooms and bathrooms, a sun room and an attached garage.
In terms of amenities, Asbury Heights has a chapel, a fitness center, and a health and wellness center located within its limits. Transportation is also provided around the community and to and from nearby downtown Pittsburgh.
Bethel Park Retirement Community
This community is a branch of the Holiday retirement family of communities and is located in Bethel Park. It features an assisted-care living facility and several private cottages for independent living. All private homes have at least one bedroom, one bathroom and spacious patios, and are fully furnished with major appliances.
Bethel Park has a variety of activities and amenities provided in and around the assisted-living facility that are accessible to all residents of the community. Rooms for games and group activities are available, a fitness center may be utilized for physical health and strength, and managers and assistants are regularly available for any needed assistance.
–INVESTOPEDIA