Why Oakmont is one of the BEST places to live in Pittsburgh

Why Oakmont Is One of Pittsburgh’s Most Livable and Desirable Communities

If you’ve spent any time in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, you already know there’s something special about this town.

Located along the Allegheny River just outside of Pittsburgh, Oakmont mixes small town charm with walkability, strong community pride, great dining, unique shops, and a wide variety of housing options. It’s one of those places where people move in and tend to stay for decades.

As both a longtime Oakmont resident and  Oakmont real estate agent, I’ve had the opportunity to experience the community not just professionally, but personally as well. From raising a family here to helping hundreds of buyers and sellers navigate the Oakmont real estate market, I’ve seen firsthand why so many people fall in love with this town.

What makes Oakmont such a great place to live?


A Wide Variety of Homes for Every Lifestyle

One of Oakmont’s biggest strengths is the diversity of housing.

You’ll find everything from:

• Classic brick colonials and Victorians with tons of character
• Updated mid century homes and ranches
• Townhomes and low maintenance options
• Newer construction sprinkled throughout nearby areas

Whether you’re a first time home buyer, a growing family, or someone looking to downsize and enjoy walkable living, Oakmont truly offers something for everyone.

Many homes feature original craftsmanship, hardwood floors, and architectural details that you just don’t see in newer developments. At the same time, there are plenty of renovated properties that blend charm with modern finishes.

Because of this variety, Oakmont attracts a wide range of buyers, which keeps the real estate market active and healthy year after year.


Walkability, Livability, and Everyday Convenience

Oakmont consistently stands out as one of the most walkable towns in the Pittsburgh area.

Residents love being able to stroll to:

Local coffee shops
Restaurants and bakeries
Small boutiques and gift shops
Parks and playgrounds
Community events downtown

It’s the kind of place where you run into neighbors, chat on front porches, and feel connected.

For families, Oakmont offers a safe, welcoming environment with great schools nearby, youth sports programs, and plenty of outdoor spaces. For professionals and retirees, the easy access to Route 28 makes commuting into Pittsburgh simple while still enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

It truly offers the best of both worlds.


A Thriving Restaurant and Small Business Scene

Oakmont punches way above its weight when it comes to dining and local businesses.

Some longtime favorites and popular spots include:

Oakmont Bakery (a destination all on its own)
Local pubs and casual eateries like Local Remedy, Vinnie's Tavern, The Pub 333, Leone's Pizza, Taco Boys, and more.
Upscale dining options like The Lot, Michael A's, and Abode
Unique shops and specialty stores like Roots to Petals, Straight line Boutique, Precious + Posh, Embroidery from the Heart, Oakmont Candleworks, Todays Market, Carabella, Goatfeathers, Urbana, and more.

Mystery Lovers Bookshop, Oakmont Deli, and one of the best local libraries in Pittsburgh.

The town does an incredible job supporting small businesses, which creates a vibrant downtown atmosphere you don’t find in many suburbs.

New shops and restaurants continue to open, keeping the area fresh while still honoring Oakmont’s history and roots.


A Community That Shows Up for Each Other

What truly sets Oakmont apart is its sense of community.

The Oakmont Chamber of Commerce is extremely active and constantly organizing events that bring people together. Throughout the year you’ll see:

The Hometown Christmas Parade
The Summer Street Sale
Seasonal festivals and community gatherings
Holiday events and family activities

These aren’t just small happenings. They’re well attended, lively, and full of local pride. Look for our float (We are Best Float Champs for the last two years!)

It’s common to see families lining the streets during parades, friends meeting downtown for events, and neighbors volunteering together. Oakmont has managed to keep that close knit feel while still growing and evolving.


Strong Real Estate Market and Long Term Value

From a real estate perspective, Oakmont has remained one of the most desirable and stable communities in the region.

Homes here tend to hold value well due to:

High demand
Limited inventory
Strong community appeal
Walkability and location

Buyers are consistently looking for opportunities in Oakmont, and well priced homes often move quickly.

As someone who specializes in Oakmont real estate and lives in the community myself, I help clients understand not just pricing, but the different pockets of town, schools, future development, and what makes certain homes more desirable than others.

Every street and neighborhood has its own feel, and having a local expert makes a big difference when navigating the market.


Living Here and Working Here Makes a Difference

There’s a big difference between working in a town and truly being part of it.

I’m proud to call Oakmont home and to serve as a real estate resource for buyers and sellers throughout the community and surrounding areas.

Being a resident allows me to offer insights you won’t find online, from which streets get the best sunlight (yes, this was a request), to where community events are held, to what areas are seeing the most interest from buyers.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, move up, downsize, or sell in Oakmont, having a local expert who understands the market from both a professional and personal perspective can make the process smoother and more successful.


Is Oakmont, PA a Good Place to Live?

For most people, the answer is a clear yes.

Oakmont offers:

✔ Diverse housing options
✔ Walkable downtown living
✔ Great food and small businesses
✔ Strong sense of community
✔ Convenient access to Pittsburgh
✔ A stable real estate market

It’s a town that continues to grow while staying true to what makes it special.


Thinking About Buying or Selling in Oakmont?

If you’re considering making a move in Oakmont or just want to understand the local market better, I’m always happy to help.

I’m John Marzullo, a longtime Oakmont resident and local real estate expert with the John Marzullo Team at Compass. I’ve helped thousands of families buy and sell homes throughout Oakmont, Verona, Plum, and the surrounding Pittsburgh communities.

Whether you’re just starting to explore options or ready to take the next step, having a knowledgeable, local guide can make all the difference.

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