Suburban Neighborhood in Observatory, Pennsylvania
Allegheny County 15214
Neighborhood Reviews
3.7
$189,963Average Value$100Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Small suburban enclave known for its historic homes, rural landscape
Perry North, or Observatory Hill, is a neighborhood of many unique attributes, from its seemingly rural landscape despite being in Pittsburgh to its high volume of historic mansions and its designation as the home of the state-of-the-art Allegheny Observatory. The neighborhood was established in 1894 as part of the former Allegheny City but was annexed by Pittsburgh in 1907. Many of the community's original structures still stand today, including the observatory and a slew of Victorian and Colonial Revival homes, giving the neighborhood a historic small-town feel. Perry North's modest business district adds to that charm, with local businesses occupying two-story brick rowhomes.
The Allegheny Observatory stands on a hilltop at the center of Riverview Park.
Perry North is a quiet neighborhood in Observatory, PA.
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Historic homes on modest lots
Perry North is an established community filled with grand historic mansions and modest traditional homes built between the late 1800s and mid-1900s. Many are slowly being updated, and according to Mike Netzel, a Realtor and entrepreneur with Keller Williams – Pittsburgh North, "Investors are coming in because of the architectural flexibility and turning those mansions into multi-family homes." Most sit snuggly along winding streets, though occasionally, homebuyers can find more spacious plots. Popular home styles include Colonial Revivals with brick facades, Foursquares with American and Victorian influences, quaint cottages with Cape Cod and Tudor elements, and prominent renovated Victorians with decorative beam work and dramatic turrets. Small, single-family fixer-uppers start around $38,000, while large, well-maintained, or updated dwellings can go for over $345,000. There are several multi-family homes in the community as well. Many are in need of some TLC, which has allowed them to sell for the extremely affordable prices of $85,000 to $250,000.
The gothic revival in Perry North have bargeboards and pointed arches.
You will love the cozy look of Tudors which can be found in Perry North.
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Stargazing at the Allegheny Observatory in Riverview Park
Riverview Park is a prominent feature in Perry North, covering most of the community's southern half. This 259-acre space is like "an island of green in the center of housing," says Netzel. It features walking and equestrian trails, playgrounds and sports fields. Popular trails in the park include the Riverview Park Loop and the Snowflake Loop, both designated as "easy." Residents are welcome to bring their dogs and can find shelter areas perfect for breaks along the pathways. The park is also home to the state-of-the-art Allegheny Observatory, which was built between 1900 and 1912 in a neoclassical style. Under each of its three domes, folks can find the Fitz/Clark Refractor, the Thaw Memorial Refractor, and the Keeler Telescope, instruments operated by the University of Pittsburgh and sometimes used for public programming.
Perry North residents enjoy a stroll in Riverview Park.
You can also use the green space in Riverview Park as a great opportunity to sun bathe.
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Summer movie nights at Riverview Park
Riverview Park is Perry North's main event stage, hosting programs sponsored by the Friends of Riverview Park organization and the city. One annual event aimed at preserving the park's beauty is the Arbor Day Celebration, where residents can spend time in nature, and kids can learn the importance of taking care of trees. The Stars at Riverview concert series is a summer tradition running from early June to late August. Each Saturday evening, local jazz groups set up in the park and serenade residents as they enjoy time with friends and family. After the concert, folks can hang back to watch a film as a part of the city's summer Cinema in the Park events.
Residents can enjoy the scenic views at local parks in Perry North.
Perry North offers affordable housing compared to most of the city suburbs.
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Specialized educational opportunities at Perry High
The neighborhood is served by Pittsburgh Public School District, which includes Pittsburgh Morrow PreK-8, graded a C on Niche, and Pittsburgh Perry High School, graded a C-minus. Perry High is divided into three schools: one for Liberal Arts, one for Career & Technical Education, and one for Service & Military. Students must commit to one or more school(s) before the end of ninth grade to target their education.
Pittsburgh Morrow K-8 prepares students for the future.
Pittsburgh Perry High School was built in 1890.
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Shopping, dining along U.S. Route 19
Perry North is mainly residential, apart from a few small businesses and restaurants near U.S. Route 19, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare. Observatory Hill Deli is a popular carryout sandwich shop serving everything from traditional cold-cut sandwiches to personal pizzas. Ida's Sandwich Shop is another family-owned favorite, offering classics like grilled cheeses and Reubens or more unique options like the French toast sandwich. For daily shopping needs and additional dining options, folks often visit nearby communities like Brighton Heights and Bellevue, where there are a handful of cafes, local eateries and a Giant Eagle Supermarket. The community is also just 4 miles from North Shore, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers' Acrisure Stadium and the Pirates' PNC Park.
Ida's Sandwich Shop in Perry North is always bustling with hungry residents.
Observatory Hill Deli is a welcoming shop in Perry North.
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I-279 borders the neighborhood
The neighborhood is bordered by U.S. Interstate 279, which leads directly to downtown Pittsburgh, about 5 miles away. Commuters who prefer public transit can catch Pittsburgh Regional Transit buses, which stop throughout the neighborhood. To travel internationally, residents can head about 23 miles west to Pittsburgh International Airport. Perry North is also home to 21 flights of city steps, a publicly managed outdoor staircase system that connects city communities to public transit. These unassuming concrete staircases are easy to miss, but are well used for exercise and getting around town. There are also three houses of worship here, each belonging to a different Christian denomination.
A great way to get in and out of Perry North is by using the Port Authority bus.
Perry North's streets are dotted with homes placed on small lots.
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Risk of flooding
According to Risk Factor, Perry North faces a major risk of experiencing flooding in the next 30 years.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Nancy Ware,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Riverview Park
Dog Park
Picnic Area
Pool
North Park
Young Field
Baseball/Softball
Central Avenue Park
Playground
Horace Mann Field
Baseball/Softball
Playground
Fowler Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Pool
Transit
Airport
Pittsburgh International
32 min drive
Bus
Perrysville Ave & Watson Blvd
Bus
Perrysville Ave & Franklin Fs
Bus
Perrysville Ave & Cherryfield
Bus
Ivory Ave & Peachtree Way
Bus
Perrysville Ave & East St
Bus
Perrysville Ave & Watson Blvd Fs
Bus
Mcknight Rd & Evergreen Rd
Reviews
Niche Reviews
3.76 Reviews
5.0Niche User
7/11/2016Niche Review
Big old 100 year old houses. Fantastic Park. New Soccer field. New restaurant. It is great place to raise a family.
5.0Current Resident
8/13/2019Niche Review
We have an awesome city park, it just needs a bit of TLC. Business district is starting to pick up and will make it much better. Houses are cheap but are going up in value very fast.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Perry North
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
2
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Perry North, Observatory sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Perry North, Observatory over the last 12 months is $172,919, down 2% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with character and key updates already done for you! Decorative brick fireplaces, a welcoming front porch, and a sunny back deck offer timeless appeal, while recent upgrades—including a new water heater, main drain stack, repaired fireplaces, updated handrails, replaced windows, fixed outlets, and bathroom improvements—make it move-in ready. All kitchen appliances
Opportunity to add value with this purpose-built multi-family property located close to transportation and ammenities. There is 1 two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit, and 1 three/four bedroom, two-bath unit with covered porches on a quiet street. Each unit is separately metered for electricity and gas and has individually controlled HVAC system. Individual laundry and storage areas are located in the
Derek EisenbergCONTINENTAL REAL ESTATE GROUP, INC.
Explore this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence in Observatory Hill featuring hardwood floors throughout, along with a partially completed full bathroom in the basement, located in Observatory Hill. The recently updated eat-in kitchen is a highlight, complemented by a small adjoining room that can serve as an office or a sizable pantry. The second level boasts three spacious bedrooms and
4029 Franklin Rd in Observatory Hill features 3 bedrooms/1.5 bathrooms and sits on a double lot. It is conveniently located to Perryville Ave, I-279, the North Shore and downtown Pittsburgh. Original hardwood floors are found throughout. Kitchen and bathrooms have been updated. Living room with decorative fireplace and dining room are generously sized. The main level half bath is an added bonus.
Newly renovated, fully furnished apartment with a fully stocked kitchen, stocked bathroom, bed linens, and all utilities and wifi included! Flexible lease terms make this the perfect place for clients that are selling their current home before moving into their new home or are renovating their home and need a place to stay for a few weeks to a few months! Also perfect for traveling professionals
Newly renovated, fully furnished apartment with a fully stocked kitchen, stocked bathroom, bed linens, and all utilities and wifi included! Flexible lease terms make this the perfect place for clients that are selling their current home before moving into their new home or are renovating their home and need a place to stay for a few weeks to a few months! Also perfect for traveling professionals
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Nancy Ware,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,970
Median Age
40
Population Density
5 ppl/acre
Population under 18
23.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$66,987
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$79,694
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.9%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
34%
Advanced Degrees
15.5%
% Population in Labor Force
72.8%
Above the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
41''
Average Winter Low Temperature
23°F
Average Summer High Temperature
83°F
Annual Snowfall
40''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
42/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
30/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
40/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
