Allegheny County Overview
Allegheny County is located in southwestern Pennsylvania and is the second-most populous county in the state. The county was established in 1788 and named after the Allegheny River, which runs through the region. Allegheny County is bordered by Beaver County to the west, Butler County to the north, Armstrong County to the northeast, Westmoreland County to the east, and Washington County to the south. The county is known for its industrial history, particularly its steel production, which helped shape Pittsburgh into a major urban center during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Today, Allegheny County is home to over 1.2 million residents, and Pittsburgh, the county seat, serves as its cultural and economic hub. The county has diversified its economy, now focusing on healthcare, education, technology, and finance. The area is also known for its numerous parks, museums, and universities, making it a vibrant place to live and visit.
- County Seat: Pittsburgh
- Number of Cities and Towns: 130 municipalities (including 2 cities and numerous boroughs and townships)
- Major School Districts: Pittsburgh Public Schools, North Allegheny School District, Fox Chapel Area School District
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Overview
Pittsburgh, the largest city and county seat of Allegheny County, is located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. Founded in 1758 as a fort during the French and Indian War, Pittsburgh grew into a major industrial center, particularly in steel production, earning it the nickname “Steel City.” Today, Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a hub for healthcare, education, and technology, with institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University leading research and innovation.
Pittsburgh experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The city is home to numerous cultural and historical landmarks, including the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Andy Warhol Museum, and PNC Park, home to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- Population: 302,971
- Population Density: 5,501 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 15122, 15201-15244
- Road Network: Interstates 376, 279, and 79, U.S. Route 19
- Nearest Airports: Pittsburgh International Airport
- Libraries: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
- Hospitals: UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, Allegheny General Hospital
Schools in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is served by the Pittsburgh Public Schools system. Pittsburgh Allderdice High School (grades 9-12) enrolls approximately 1,400 students, offering a wide range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses. Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12 (Creative and Performing Arts) has around 900 students and focuses on specialized training in the arts, alongside traditional academics. Additionally, Pittsburgh is home to major higher education institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, both of which contribute to the city’s strong academic reputation.
McKeesport
McKeesport Overview
McKeesport is located southeast of Pittsburgh at the confluence of the Monongahela and Youghiogheny Rivers. Founded in 1795, McKeesport became an industrial powerhouse during the 19th and 20th centuries due to its steel mills and manufacturing plants. As part of the Rust Belt, the city faced economic challenges following the decline of the steel industry, but it has since focused on revitalization efforts. McKeesport is known for its riverfront parks and proximity to the Great Allegheny Passage, a popular trail for biking and hiking.
McKeesport has a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Notable landmarks include Renziehausen Park, which hosts annual festivals and community events, and the McKeesport Little Theater, one of the oldest community theaters in the region.
- Population: 19,731
- Population Density: 3,222 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 15132, 15133
- Road Network: U.S. Route 30, Pennsylvania Route 148
- Nearest Airports: Pittsburgh International Airport
- Libraries: Carnegie Library of McKeesport
- Hospitals: UPMC McKeesport
Schools in McKeesport
McKeesport is served by the McKeesport Area School District. McKeesport Area High School (grades 9-12) enrolls approximately 1,000 students and offers a variety of academic tracks, including Advanced Placement courses and vocational training. Founders’ Hall Middle School (grades 6-8) serves about 700 students, focusing on preparing students for high school with a range of academic and extracurricular programs. The district emphasizes career readiness and offers programs that align with the needs of the local workforce.
Bethel Park
Bethel Park Overview
Bethel Park is a suburban community located south of Pittsburgh. Founded in the late 18th century, Bethel Park has grown into a residential area known for its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Its proximity to Pittsburgh makes it a popular choice for commuters, while its own amenities—including South Hills Village Mall and several community parks—make it a vibrant place to live.
Bethel Park experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The area’s landmarks include the Montour Trail, a popular spot for cycling and walking, and the Bethel Park Historical Society’s Schoolhouse Arts & History Center, which preserves the community’s heritage.
- Population: 32,313
- Population Density: 2,797 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 15102
- Road Network: Pennsylvania Route 88, U.S. Route 19
- Nearest Airports: Pittsburgh International Airport
- Libraries: Bethel Park Public Library
- Hospitals: St. Clair Hospital (nearby in Mt. Lebanon)
Schools in Bethel Park
Bethel Park is served by the Bethel Park School District. Bethel Park High School (grades 9-12) has about 1,400 students and offers a range of Advanced Placement courses, extracurricular activities, and sports teams. The district also includes Neil Armstrong Middle School (grades 5-6) and Independence Middle School (grades 7-8), with a combined student population of about 1,600. Bethel Park schools are known for their strong academic performance, with high graduation rates and a focus on preparing students for college and careers.
Monroeville
Monroeville Overview
Monroeville is a suburb located east of Pittsburgh and is known for its commercial centers, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities. Originally a farming community, Monroeville grew significantly in the mid-20th century as suburbanization spread from Pittsburgh. Today, it is a major retail and business hub, home to the Monroeville Mall, as well as several large medical facilities, including UPMC East.
Monroeville has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The town is home to several parks and recreation centers, and it’s known for the Monroeville Convention Center, which hosts various events throughout the year. Monroeville also has a rich history in the movie industry, as George A. Romero’s classic film Dawn of the Dead was filmed at the Monroeville Mall.
- Population: 28,640
- Population Density: 1,340 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 15146
- Road Network: Interstate 376, U.S. Route 22, Pennsylvania Turnpike
- Nearest Airports: Pittsburgh International Airport
- Libraries: Monroeville Public Library
- Hospitals: UPMC East, Forbes Hospital
Schools in Monroeville
Monroeville is part of the Gateway School District. Gateway High School (grades 9-12) serves approximately 1,300 students, offering Advanced Placement courses, vocational training, and a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics and performing arts. The district also includes Moss Side Middle School (grades 6-8) and Evergreen Elementary School (PreK-5), both of which have strong academic programs and enrichment activities. Gateway schools are known for their focus on student success, with a commitment to fostering both academic and personal growth.
Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon Overview
Mt. Lebanon is an affluent suburb located just southwest of Pittsburgh. Established in 1912, it is known for its high-quality schools, historic homes, and vibrant community life. Mt. Lebanon has a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and the iconic Uptown Mt. Lebanon district. It is also known for its excellent public services, including recreation centers and well-maintained parks.
Mt. Lebanon has a humid continental climate, with cool winters and warm summers. The community is home to several landmarks, including the Mt. Lebanon Public Library and the Mt. Lebanon Ice Center, which offers public skating and ice hockey. The area’s tree-lined streets and historic architecture make it one of the most desirable suburbs in the Pittsburgh area.
- Population: 33,137
- Population Density: 5,000 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 15228
- Road Network: U.S. Route 19, Pennsylvania Route 88
- Nearest Airports: Pittsburgh International Airport
- Libraries: Mt. Lebanon Public Library
- Hospitals: St. Clair Hospital
Schools in Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon is served by the Mt. Lebanon School District, known for its academic excellence. Mt. Lebanon High School (grades 9-12) enrolls approximately 1,800 students and is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate options. Jefferson Middle School and Mellon Middle School serve students in grades 6-8, with about 1,200 students combined. The district is known for its high graduation rates and emphasis on preparing students for post-secondary success. The schools also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from athletics to the arts.