Neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill and Shadyside are more convenient for car-free living, as they have a number of retail stores and services within walking distance. On the flip side, it is also relatively easy to maintain a car in Pittsburgh. With the exception of the tunnels, rush hour, and after major events, traffic is not bad. It is relatively easy to find decent housing near CMU at an affordable price. Most students rent apartments or share houses in nearby neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, Greenfield, and Edgewood.
Some students are even able to purchase homes rather than rent.
Housing quality and neighborhoods vary significantly in the area, so it is strongly recommended you visit potential residences before signing a lease. If you make an apartment-hunting trip to the area during the summer, you may be able to arrange to stay in a dorm during your visit at rates significantly lower than the nearby hotels. CMU Childcare is pretty expensive and has a long waiting list. There is a group of graduate students currently working with the CMU administration to find solutions. For now, parents are organizing child care among themselves.