Downsizing to a Condo in Pittsburgh: The Downsizing Blueprint

Thinking of trading the family home for a condo? Many Pittsburgh-area homeowners downsize to get rid of yard work, stairs and big repair bills, and to live closer to family or Downtown. Our free Downsizing Blueprint lays out the timeline, the money and the communities to consider.

Free download: The Downsizing Blueprint

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A step-by-step plan for moving from the family home to a Pittsburgh condo: timing, costs, one-level communities and decluttering. Enter your name and email and the PDF is ready right away.

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What’s Inside

  • Why downsizing to a condo usually pencils out
  • A 6-month downsizing timeline
  • Buy first, sell first or same-day settlements
  • One-level ranch and patio condo communities we track
  • What it costs to sell and buy, and what it saves
  • Homestead and senior tax programs to check
  • The four-box decluttering method and moving-in checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are one-level condos in the Pittsburgh area?

Ranch and patio condo communities are mostly in the suburbs, including the North Hills, Cranberry, Moon and the South Hills. Elevator buildings in Downtown, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill and Mount Washington also offer one-level living. Our guide lists the communities we track.

Should I sell my house before buying a condo?

Selling first sets your budget and avoids two payments; buying first lets you move once. Many downsizers coordinate same-day settlements. A bridge loan or cash can help if you buy first.

How much is a condo in the Pittsburgh area?

The median condo or HOA townhome sold for about $323,750 in the 12 months ending October 2026, with a median reported fee of about $278 a month, below the median single-family home price of about $355,000.

Are there 55+ condo communities near Pittsburgh?

A few, but most Pittsburgh-area condo communities are open to all ages. Ask about age restrictions, and look for one-level layouts and elevators instead.

What tax programs should downsizers check?

Apply for Allegheny County’s homestead exclusion on your new primary residence, and check county, municipal and school district senior tax relief programs, which have age, residency and income rules.

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Questions? Call the My Pittsburgh Condo team at (724) 933-8500 or contact us.

Market figures: West Penn MLS closed sales and leases, November 2025 to October 2026. General information, not legal, tax or lending advice.