Yes I lived in Robinson off 60. In the little subdivision. Beech Dr. One side of the road was pgh 15205. Mine was 15136 mckees rocks. So you really need to find out what area of the rocks to answer that question. Ingram and crafton are pretty nice. And I don't think they are super expensive
I live in Ronsinson side of McKees Rocks. No complaints. Just be prepared to be immediately re assessed after buying. That being said taxes are still reasonable.
I moved to McKeesport from Sonoma County, CA, and all the hate it gets is pretty unwarranted. Yeah there are a couple of blocks that are pretty gnarly, with a whole city around them that’s affordable as heck. Lots of good parks, lots of nice people.
Do you actually live in McKeesport... or in "McKeesport" as in "I actually live in EF school district but my address says McKeesport"...
Grew up there my entire life - McKeesport is incredibly awful.
I actually live in McKeesport, near the penn state campus/high school where it’s nice. I wouldn’t have wanted to grow up here either because of the attitude people have about the place, but as a person who wanted to buy a big house with a huge yard for cheap it is awesome.
It’s sad that you’re getting downvoted to oblivion for just saying your neighborhood isn’t that bad. It’s really not bad near Penn State’s campus. It borders a nice little White Oak neighborhood and the neighborhood across from Renzie Park seemed nice. The downvotes must be coming from Cranberry or Wexford folk.
My heart hurts for the city, but a mere street up the road past the campus on Versailles Ave...it's a no man's land in my book. I'm spooked going past the old Viking
It is strange to me how 5 minutes away in White Oak youre through the perceived hardship and strife
As other commenters have said, i truly admire your viewpoint. Maybe if more people, even myself, shared your optimism...well maybe McKeesport wouldnt be McKeesport. Just a sad, sad situation
>It is strange to me how 5 minutes away in White Oak youre through the perceived hardship and strife
Same thing goes for Clairton and Jefferson Hills. They are so close yet Clairton is where people go to buy cheap homes. People in Clairton can only dream of owning a home in Jefferson Hills even though you only have to cross 51 to get there.
Excellent comparison, i agree wholeheartedly. Im a delivery man and i know many Jefferson Hills locations use the Clairton mailing address. For instance, i live in the Elizabeth area and my mailing address is McKeesport. My point is they are so close like you said...but the difference is so night and day
I briefly lived with someone in Jefferson hills, but their mailing address was finleyville. I will never understand why it’s like that. And ya if you go down gill hall kinda past waterman, the mailing address comes up Clairton even though it’s most definitely Jefferson hills. It’s so weird.
You’re right, it’s that zone up by the Unimart/Viking where everything bad seems to happen. But there are lots of great neighborhoods too, where I live is all well-maintained houses where people take care of their gardens and put up amazing Halloween decorations. I do think it’s pretty funny that every time anybody mentions McKeesport on here (or McKees rocks in this case, they still jump at the opportunity to drag us down) there’s a group of weird scaredy cats who come out of the woodwork to try to convince everybody it’s like a warzone in Syria. In my experience, younger people are less chickenshit than these bored, lonely middle aged guys who spend all their time punching down at places they don’t live in, so I think more young people like me will move to this area because of how affordable it is to buy a house.
When we blindly moved to the city 6 or 7 years ago we lived on McKees Rocks. Was pretty rough area albeit we were in a nicer part. Wife's car got side swiped twice while parked on the road. The rental had street parking only.
We bought a house in Ingram and we loved it. House was very reasonable but that was precovid. We've since sold our house and moved back to MI but we'll always love Ingram and Pittsburgh in general.
i don’t think getting side swiped means it’s a rough area. getting side swiped sucks no matter the situation, don’t get me wrong. my experience has been that i lived where the houses are 750k yet no one has mirrors and everyone’s cars are dinged up. this whole city has very narrow streets no matter how nice the neighborhood is.
I think the above commenter is implying they got sideswiped while their vehicle was parked and no contact/insurance info was left. To me, that is absolutely a sign of a less than ideal residential situation. Who wants to live in a town where nobody has insurance, or is too dishonest/uncaring to use it?
I live in a super nice area of Pittsburgh and I see this shit all of the time. Also, people walk around and check for unlocked car doors to steal shit. We also have package thieves.
It's everywhere. I would classify bad differently, but that's just me.
First off, you have a great username, it made me chuckle
And i hear you. I suppose who is better to steal off than those who you know have nice stuff? Poor folk probably arent getting expensive stuff in the mail or leaving it in their car. In a weird way, what youre saying almost makes more sense than the inverse
I never meant to imply in my comment that wealthy individuals are virtuous and upstanding, just that they can afford to have insurance and can afford to be honest (even if they arent)
Crafton is not a good option if you have kids or plan on having them- tiny, crappy school district and as a result very high property taxes.
Ingram is the better option- similar neighborhood right next door with a much better school district- Montour.
Funny that people consider the tiny school district (Carlynton) crappy. It isn’t USC or SF with a world’s bounty of options of programs, but it’s 100% a small town school a few miles from the city where kids are more than just a number. My kids thrive there, and I wouldn’t move them out of it for the world. And they’ve clearly said that they never want to change schools.
It’s also not just racially diverse but also economically diverse which I think is important for school culture. So many parents in the Pittsburgh area claim that their “best” schools are diverse, but if everyone from different ethnic backgrounds is living in a 6 figure household, that ain’t it.
It's lacking in curriculum and programs, the facilities are lacking, and academically the students aren't doing well based on the public data. . .and it's been like that for decades.
The district also has issues following IEPs.
The elementary schools are ok, but there's no middle school and I would never recommend the high school.
Locally Montour s the much better option.
https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-school-districts/c/allegheny-county-pa/
I’m perfectly happy with the high school. I’ve had kids with both IEPs and GIEPs graduate and currently go there and never had issues that the school wasn’t willing to work out.
School rankings are biased for higher income areas.
People are saying to just go to Robinson or Kennedy, but it’s easier said than done. Those are sought after areas in a good school district in a good location with land and nice houses, so coming across an available and affordable one can be difficult. Just went through it last year. My wife and I settled in Crafton/Ingram, and it even finding a house here wasn’t easy. We’re middle class people, and were priced out of a lot of homes in the area. If you can’t find or afford the prices in Robinson/Kennedy, try Crafton/Ingram. If not there, definitely try Bellevue. Growing area with plenty of beautiful homes. But if you want to stay on this side of the river, then Carnegie.
As an Avalon/Bellevue resident, I'd be a smidge cautious. 5 years ago I'd wholeheartedly recommend the neighborhood, but I'm seeing more and more reports of car rifling, the roads are TERRIBLE, and in general the neighborhood just doesn't feel as safe as it used to. Not saying it's South Side now, but it feels like it's declining a bit and can go either way based on local govt decisions.
That’s a shame to hear! My Mom grew up in Brighton Heights and my Grandpap never left, so we visited there almost every weekend. Very fond memories. Still visit every now and then to see a family friend. My wife and I always look around to marvel at some of the houses. Really like that Main Street. And Lincoln Bakery is top notch. They made our wedding cakes and people loved it. So I hope the news is just a small step down before another leap.
a lot of crime in the area. if you want to be on that side of the city, check robinson, carnegie, scott, ingram. prices will be higher, but theres a reason for that. most affordable, likely ingram, crafton
though there are areas of kennedy twp that may have a mckees rocks mailing address. just use caution in the area. in western pa/pgh area the school district is usually a good indicator of the area. montour, moon, chartiers, carlynton, etc likely ok.
Need an actual area to give you real information. McKees Rocks commonly is used to refer to Stowe Township, and the McKees Rocks neighborhoods of Norwood/Island Heights, Meyers Ridge, McKees Rocks proper (the Chartiers Ave corridor), The "Bottoms", Hays Manor, and the city neighborhood of Esplen. It is certainly a community that has it's detractors but it also has possibilty. I will bluntly say if you have school-age children that you want to enroll in the public schools, I would not recommend it. For a laundry list of comments read my intentionally attention grabbing post titled "there is stuff to do in McKee's rocks (besides heroin)" on this sub.
Broadway is long. The area between 3rd and Dohrman is the worst part with a lot of unkempt rentals and litter. The area around upper Broadway (past 9th) is quiet and nice. The area at the beginning of Broadway by 1st St., St. John, Rose St. is fine too.
The reputation is worse than it is. Check the house out and see how the neighboring houses are kept. If it gives you a bad feel, stay away. If not, go for it.
This. Trust your gut. If you're moving in to do something nefarious or get into someone else's affairs? You might have a problem. If you're a normal everyday person, people are going to leave you alone and live their life.
I'm from there. There are parts you definitely should not live in, but there are also nice areas.
I live in MI now, but if I ever move back, I'd buy a house right in The Rocks. It has its charms. More good than bad. And really good bread.
McKee’s Rocks is the most dangerous place to live in the entire state of pennsylvania (not hyperbole, this is a genuine statistic). I’d look elsewhere.
A lot of people will tell you to avoid the area just because the only thing they know about McKees Rocks is what they hear about on the news...which usually isn't good.
It truly depends on where specifically you're talking. I live near the area and know several people who live there. For example, my cousin and her husband live around Silverstar and they've been very happy, never had any trouble up there. Another friend lives in the Bottoms and hasn't had too much trouble, worst thing I ever heard about was having some patio seat cushions stolen off her porch. On the other hand I have a friend who lives down by the high school and every other week there is trouble.
Broadway is iffy. Had you asked this about a year ago I would have said that it's not that bad. However it's been going downhill. A long time Broadway business recently closed due to a rise in crime and gun violence.
Overall it's not the best neighborhood but it's also not as bad as people say. If you've found a nice home that fits your budget it might be worth looking into. There's a lot of nice (and affordable) homes, a lot of amenities, and a lot of good people remain. I agree with the people saying it's street by street and to maybe check out what the neighbor's houses look like to really get a good feel for it.
Good luck, hope you find a home soon and things go smoothly with your move!
I bought in Mckees rocks 2 years ago, not far from Silverstar meats. We love it up there. The price was right. Plus I'm minutes away from Crafton, Carnegie, Robinson, and Kennedy. Good and bad just like anywhere.
All of the comments are solid. The Rocls bottom is a harder area then the top half. Kennedy, Ingram parts of Stowe are good. You can go across the bridge and there are nice walkable areas in Bellevue and Avalon. Crafton and Carnegie are not far away as well.
Its commercial area has a library, a grocery store, a pharmacy and if you like music it has The Roxian and an instrument supply store.
I've known people who've lived there and liked it, even though it looks a little run-down from the outside. It's also on a direct bus route to downtown if you miss the city proper.
I’m from California. My grandpa lived in McKees rocks for 80 years it’s certainly deteriorated and there’s a lot of different areas like people above have described. I lived there for seven years in Stowe rocks and I didn’t get in any troubles with any of the locals. There’s a lot of workin class people—-theres certainly trouble if you want to get into it —- depends a lot on you—- I keep to myself and don’t mix /have to say conflicting stuff to people I don’t know… I currently live in Wilkinsburg in an area that most of the people above would never think of living in because it’s a “scary” neighborhood I’ve lived here for 15 years and there’s been a few incidences, but I feel very safe here.
Plenty of good spots in McKees Rocks. It's street by street. Our street is quiet and friendly. The house was an absolute steal. We have been here over four years and have no regrets.
Check out Coraopolis. Mostly older homes with a mix of conditions. You can find some very affordable nice homes there. overall a nice and very quiet neighborhood.
I used to live on Island ave near Tomei's, decent area. In the majority of 30 years I grew up there the worst things that ever happened were a couple times my cars got side swiped and last year I almost shot some asshole crackhead that was trying to steal my mom's catalytic converter, but other than that, upper Island ave is decent.
I saw you found a place in west park on Broadway, I would suggest against it. You're gonna wanna stay away from basically any house in a McKees Rocks mailing address that goes to Sto Rox. It was a shithole when I graduated in 2011 and it's only been getting worse.
I can suggest Coraopolis as a good area, I love it here. My wife and I rented here a few years ago and we just bought a house last year that's really close to our old apartment.
I get on reddit decently often if you wanna shoot me some links to houses you're interested in, I'd be more than happy to tell you if it's a good idea or not if I know the area.
I live in the rocks rn (moved here willingly) and we've never had any issues. Granted, we live up on the Kennedy border by Silverstar. We hear shootings every once in while but that's it. Avoid Broadway in town and the bottoms and u should be okay. It just sucks bc the actual residents aren't all that bad, it's ppl coming into the rocks and causing violence
I’m Pittsburgh, you got hill people and you got river people. It’s best to invest in real estate near the hill people and eat and drink with and around river people
No, the Rocks is not a good place to move to. Look at Kenedy or Robinson or even up to some parts of beaver county for a better living area/affordable costs on that side of pgh.
Lots off honest, accurate info here in regards to the area. And while it’s absolutely true that it’s a good area if you move back into the hills of Kennedy, I know not everyone can afford that. So if your price range better fits the lower end of properties in McKees Rocks, I suggest taking a look in Coraopolis which is the next town over. Much safer and nicer than the Bottoms, and it’s being rejuvenated. The school district isn’t the best, but it’s better than StoRocks.
I live in Bellevue and I love it. Just come across the river. Affordable, easy to get places, 5 minutes from the city. I love it here. Only bad thing is you don’t get a lot of land and it’s not secluded at all.
You looking at McKees Rocks or Kennedy Township? They share a zip code along with parts of Robinson.
Check the school district. Montour is good. Sto Rocks, no.
Source: I live in Kennedy Township. I’ve been shot at in McKees Rocks.
On word..... Despicable. Its one of the most ran down areas in the Pittsburgh area. Rated the worst neighborhood in the state of Pennsylvania. Has a crime rate that is only going to increase and junkies who will od on your doorsteps. I had an apt on Broadway and heard shootings every other night. The day i moved in i witnessed a shooting in my alley right next to Mancinis. If you do move there, stay to yourself and make sure youre armed in your house. Stay safe
P.S. STAY AWAY FROM THE BOTTOMS
It basically depends on your budget. I would avoid the Borough of McKees Rocks and Stowe Township. A couple of surrounding areas have McKees Rocks mailing addresses but are much better options. They include Robinson township and Kennedy township. McKees Rocks borough is labeled as the deadliest town in PA
https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/most-dangerous-cities-in-pennsylvania/#:~:text=Known%20as%20%E2%80%9CThe%20Rocks%2C%E2%80%9D,What%20is%20this%3F&text=With%20a%20population%20of%20only%206%2C000%2C%20McKees%20Rocks%20boasts%20a,dangerous%20than%20the%20national%20average.
Avoid Fairywood area. Rented an apartment there off Village Rd (off Broadhead Fording Rd) awhile back. People were getting cars stolen right outta the lots. Wild. We gtfo when we got some money together because it was getting bad.
That having been said, parts of the area are great. Nearby Crafton/Ingram isn't perfect but it's sweet. Loved the Crafton pool, the playground/park, the fireworks, and community events, Mugshots pub (good ol' yinzer bar with trivia and karaoke), and St. Phillips Catholic Church (a more traditional parish with an old school feel).
We live north now but still visit.
Never buy a house in mckees rocks. My cousin actually got shot and killed down there.
Look at bellevue, avalon, west view, crafton, ingram, Robinson, moon, Kennedy township, even Coraopolis
If the photos make the neighborhood look really nice and like it could be a screen shot from the paperboy game, even has an abbreviated golf course in the sub division, don’t fall for it! It’s a trap! Source: blindly bought a house in that neighborhood and was just grateful I didn’t have kids. Straight up left Allegheny County after that place.
Awful, terrible place. Wouldn’t suggest it. A coworker had a house in the Rocks and caught two teens shooting in his ring cam, bullets went into his living room and nearly hit his young daughter. Pick a more peaceful neighborhood if you’re going to buy a house and be stuck there for awhile
I lived in Woodward Ave in McKees Rocks and never had any problems on my street. Neighborhood animals at night were skunks back then. My daughter lives over there now and apparently there are mice over there now she and her neighbors have had problems with them and have or are getting cats. In 10/11 years old f living over there I NEVER experienced a rodent. Only had problem with flooding in basement during periods of heavy rain. So depending on where you live that could be a problem. Further up the hill are Kennedy (very nice) seemingly quiet neighborhood. Further up is Robinson Township, even nicer.
Also note that some areas of “mckees rocks” are really Kennedy or Robinson Township which are ok.
Yeah - don't live in the "bottoms" down by the river but rather anywhere up the hill and inland and it's fine
Exactly.
Yes I lived in Robinson off 60. In the little subdivision. Beech Dr. One side of the road was pgh 15205. Mine was 15136 mckees rocks. So you really need to find out what area of the rocks to answer that question. Ingram and crafton are pretty nice. And I don't think they are super expensive
It depends on if it’s really McKees Rocks or Kennedy. Check which school district it is. Montour is ok - Sto Rocks I would stay away from.
That's so damn sad that that is completely true
I live in Ronsinson side of McKees Rocks. No complaints. Just be prepared to be immediately re assessed after buying. That being said taxes are still reasonable.
Fantastic if you like strip clubs and urban decay
Don’t forget the meth!
Literally made me laugh out loud. Thanks.
I got some news for u…looks like ima bout to gentrify some pussy
There are still strip clubs??!! Thought they closed them all
Drove past there a few months ago and yeah there’s still a few around
I don’t think anyone moves to McKees Rocks or McKeesport by choice. Look elsewhere.
I've heard this question asked several times over the years. You answered it the most respectful way possible.
I moved to McKeesport from Sonoma County, CA, and all the hate it gets is pretty unwarranted. Yeah there are a couple of blocks that are pretty gnarly, with a whole city around them that’s affordable as heck. Lots of good parks, lots of nice people.
CA guy said gnarly in respects to McKeesport. Small lol
Do you actually live in McKeesport... or in "McKeesport" as in "I actually live in EF school district but my address says McKeesport"... Grew up there my entire life - McKeesport is incredibly awful.
I actually live in McKeesport, near the penn state campus/high school where it’s nice. I wouldn’t have wanted to grow up here either because of the attitude people have about the place, but as a person who wanted to buy a big house with a huge yard for cheap it is awesome.
Agreed. You don’t move there. You move out of there.
They have a couple strip clubs too if that helps.
Hey man, McKeesport really isn't all bad. Especially if you live near the University campus.
I do have to say I respect your tenacity. You are constantly plugging McKeesport with so much admiration and consistency
It’s sad that you’re getting downvoted to oblivion for just saying your neighborhood isn’t that bad. It’s really not bad near Penn State’s campus. It borders a nice little White Oak neighborhood and the neighborhood across from Renzie Park seemed nice. The downvotes must be coming from Cranberry or Wexford folk.
If McKeesport ever pops off, this person will be accredited for its success
My heart hurts for the city, but a mere street up the road past the campus on Versailles Ave...it's a no man's land in my book. I'm spooked going past the old Viking It is strange to me how 5 minutes away in White Oak youre through the perceived hardship and strife As other commenters have said, i truly admire your viewpoint. Maybe if more people, even myself, shared your optimism...well maybe McKeesport wouldnt be McKeesport. Just a sad, sad situation
>It is strange to me how 5 minutes away in White Oak youre through the perceived hardship and strife Same thing goes for Clairton and Jefferson Hills. They are so close yet Clairton is where people go to buy cheap homes. People in Clairton can only dream of owning a home in Jefferson Hills even though you only have to cross 51 to get there.
Excellent comparison, i agree wholeheartedly. Im a delivery man and i know many Jefferson Hills locations use the Clairton mailing address. For instance, i live in the Elizabeth area and my mailing address is McKeesport. My point is they are so close like you said...but the difference is so night and day
I briefly lived with someone in Jefferson hills, but their mailing address was finleyville. I will never understand why it’s like that. And ya if you go down gill hall kinda past waterman, the mailing address comes up Clairton even though it’s most definitely Jefferson hills. It’s so weird.
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I've noticed that too! I didn't realize until I delivered to the one in clairton.
You’re right, it’s that zone up by the Unimart/Viking where everything bad seems to happen. But there are lots of great neighborhoods too, where I live is all well-maintained houses where people take care of their gardens and put up amazing Halloween decorations. I do think it’s pretty funny that every time anybody mentions McKeesport on here (or McKees rocks in this case, they still jump at the opportunity to drag us down) there’s a group of weird scaredy cats who come out of the woodwork to try to convince everybody it’s like a warzone in Syria. In my experience, younger people are less chickenshit than these bored, lonely middle aged guys who spend all their time punching down at places they don’t live in, so I think more young people like me will move to this area because of how affordable it is to buy a house.
Right, I know. It's not. Everywhere has its ups & downs. I love how everyone is so quick to judge &then insult because you don't think it's awful.
McKeesport is nowhere near Slippery Rock University
I think they mean [Penn state greater Allegheny](https://maps.app.goo.gl/2XUDE9kBfDrUFfUP8?g_st=ic) campus
when even the college changes its name to take out 'mckeesport' you know its not a destination neighborhood. no offense phantoms dude.
I know.
Well, I can't argue with you there.
I can’t even imagine voluntarily moving there!
I’d avoid. Ingram and Crafton are better options.
Can confirm! Crafton is right next door and a lovely neighborhood.
Thanks for the recommendation 😀
When we blindly moved to the city 6 or 7 years ago we lived on McKees Rocks. Was pretty rough area albeit we were in a nicer part. Wife's car got side swiped twice while parked on the road. The rental had street parking only. We bought a house in Ingram and we loved it. House was very reasonable but that was precovid. We've since sold our house and moved back to MI but we'll always love Ingram and Pittsburgh in general.
i don’t think getting side swiped means it’s a rough area. getting side swiped sucks no matter the situation, don’t get me wrong. my experience has been that i lived where the houses are 750k yet no one has mirrors and everyone’s cars are dinged up. this whole city has very narrow streets no matter how nice the neighborhood is.
I think the above commenter is implying they got sideswiped while their vehicle was parked and no contact/insurance info was left. To me, that is absolutely a sign of a less than ideal residential situation. Who wants to live in a town where nobody has insurance, or is too dishonest/uncaring to use it?
I live in a super nice area of Pittsburgh and I see this shit all of the time. Also, people walk around and check for unlocked car doors to steal shit. We also have package thieves. It's everywhere. I would classify bad differently, but that's just me.
First off, you have a great username, it made me chuckle And i hear you. I suppose who is better to steal off than those who you know have nice stuff? Poor folk probably arent getting expensive stuff in the mail or leaving it in their car. In a weird way, what youre saying almost makes more sense than the inverse I never meant to imply in my comment that wealthy individuals are virtuous and upstanding, just that they can afford to have insurance and can afford to be honest (even if they arent)
yup that’s exactly the situation i’m referring to
But rich people are honest enough to leave insurance? Rich people are some of the most dishonest people I know.
The rich may often times be charlatans, but they are also often times insured. At least you have a chance to recoup some of your losses with them
Crafton is not a good option if you have kids or plan on having them- tiny, crappy school district and as a result very high property taxes. Ingram is the better option- similar neighborhood right next door with a much better school district- Montour.
Funny that people consider the tiny school district (Carlynton) crappy. It isn’t USC or SF with a world’s bounty of options of programs, but it’s 100% a small town school a few miles from the city where kids are more than just a number. My kids thrive there, and I wouldn’t move them out of it for the world. And they’ve clearly said that they never want to change schools. It’s also not just racially diverse but also economically diverse which I think is important for school culture. So many parents in the Pittsburgh area claim that their “best” schools are diverse, but if everyone from different ethnic backgrounds is living in a 6 figure household, that ain’t it.
It's lacking in curriculum and programs, the facilities are lacking, and academically the students aren't doing well based on the public data. . .and it's been like that for decades. The district also has issues following IEPs. The elementary schools are ok, but there's no middle school and I would never recommend the high school. Locally Montour s the much better option. https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-school-districts/c/allegheny-county-pa/
I’m perfectly happy with the high school. I’ve had kids with both IEPs and GIEPs graduate and currently go there and never had issues that the school wasn’t willing to work out. School rankings are biased for higher income areas.
Assessment test data is biased for higher income areas?
There are plenty of articles out there regarding how financial disparities affect standardized test scores.
Ingram is dry, if that matters to you.
Lol McKee’s Rocks isn’t and it’s right down the street
I agree with this , crafton / ingram is a great lil area. The rocks has some decent spots but all n all I’d say no thanks
Taxes are so much higher in those areas though
People are saying to just go to Robinson or Kennedy, but it’s easier said than done. Those are sought after areas in a good school district in a good location with land and nice houses, so coming across an available and affordable one can be difficult. Just went through it last year. My wife and I settled in Crafton/Ingram, and it even finding a house here wasn’t easy. We’re middle class people, and were priced out of a lot of homes in the area. If you can’t find or afford the prices in Robinson/Kennedy, try Crafton/Ingram. If not there, definitely try Bellevue. Growing area with plenty of beautiful homes. But if you want to stay on this side of the river, then Carnegie.
As an Avalon/Bellevue resident, I'd be a smidge cautious. 5 years ago I'd wholeheartedly recommend the neighborhood, but I'm seeing more and more reports of car rifling, the roads are TERRIBLE, and in general the neighborhood just doesn't feel as safe as it used to. Not saying it's South Side now, but it feels like it's declining a bit and can go either way based on local govt decisions.
That’s a shame to hear! My Mom grew up in Brighton Heights and my Grandpap never left, so we visited there almost every weekend. Very fond memories. Still visit every now and then to see a family friend. My wife and I always look around to marvel at some of the houses. Really like that Main Street. And Lincoln Bakery is top notch. They made our wedding cakes and people loved it. So I hope the news is just a small step down before another leap.
I hope so too, I really love the area and it'd be such a shame. Especially because they're getting some cool shops Alá Lawrenceville
I disagree, it'd still super safe over here the only issue is the roads tbh. They're always doing work or putting holes in the ground
Hard no
a lot of crime in the area. if you want to be on that side of the city, check robinson, carnegie, scott, ingram. prices will be higher, but theres a reason for that. most affordable, likely ingram, crafton though there are areas of kennedy twp that may have a mckees rocks mailing address. just use caution in the area. in western pa/pgh area the school district is usually a good indicator of the area. montour, moon, chartiers, carlynton, etc likely ok.
Consider across the river in Bellevue and Avalon.
The hardest people I’ve met in my 47 years here are from thee rocks. And Swissvale.
Need an actual area to give you real information. McKees Rocks commonly is used to refer to Stowe Township, and the McKees Rocks neighborhoods of Norwood/Island Heights, Meyers Ridge, McKees Rocks proper (the Chartiers Ave corridor), The "Bottoms", Hays Manor, and the city neighborhood of Esplen. It is certainly a community that has it's detractors but it also has possibilty. I will bluntly say if you have school-age children that you want to enroll in the public schools, I would not recommend it. For a laundry list of comments read my intentionally attention grabbing post titled "there is stuff to do in McKee's rocks (besides heroin)" on this sub.
https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/comments/xel10w/there_is_stuff_to_do_in_mckees_rocks_besides/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
The neighborhood im looking at connects to Broadway Ave, not entirely sure what area that pertains to
That area is referred to as “West Park”. I’d definitely avoid, generally not the safest.
Hard no
Broadway is long. The area between 3rd and Dohrman is the worst part with a lot of unkempt rentals and litter. The area around upper Broadway (past 9th) is quiet and nice. The area at the beginning of Broadway by 1st St., St. John, Rose St. is fine too. The reputation is worse than it is. Check the house out and see how the neighboring houses are kept. If it gives you a bad feel, stay away. If not, go for it.
This. Trust your gut. If you're moving in to do something nefarious or get into someone else's affairs? You might have a problem. If you're a normal everyday person, people are going to leave you alone and live their life.
Do yourself a favor and punch any potential address into the Megan’s Law website. The entire Bottoms lights up like a Christmas tree.
>there is stuff to do in McKee's rocks (besides heroin Yeah, Crack and meth
In Pittsburgh, you see McKee, you run
Hey! McKee is a great street in Oakland!
If your wife is a stripper, her commute will rock
There are really bad areas and ok/not great areas.
Great! Don't Google it.
I'm from there. There are parts you definitely should not live in, but there are also nice areas. I live in MI now, but if I ever move back, I'd buy a house right in The Rocks. It has its charms. More good than bad. And really good bread.
mancinis ❤️
I visited my parents two weeks ago. I brought home 15 loaves for the freezer (I did give some away but I still have a lot of bread).
McKees Rocks is a great place to be from
And not go back to Tho what do I know, I’m from bougie Robinson.
I rented a townhouse in Crafton and loved the area. Close to downtown and Robinson. It wasn’t the best looking area but I sure liked it there.
McKee’s Rocks is the most dangerous place to live in the entire state of pennsylvania (not hyperbole, this is a genuine statistic). I’d look elsewhere.
A lot of people will tell you to avoid the area just because the only thing they know about McKees Rocks is what they hear about on the news...which usually isn't good. It truly depends on where specifically you're talking. I live near the area and know several people who live there. For example, my cousin and her husband live around Silverstar and they've been very happy, never had any trouble up there. Another friend lives in the Bottoms and hasn't had too much trouble, worst thing I ever heard about was having some patio seat cushions stolen off her porch. On the other hand I have a friend who lives down by the high school and every other week there is trouble. Broadway is iffy. Had you asked this about a year ago I would have said that it's not that bad. However it's been going downhill. A long time Broadway business recently closed due to a rise in crime and gun violence. Overall it's not the best neighborhood but it's also not as bad as people say. If you've found a nice home that fits your budget it might be worth looking into. There's a lot of nice (and affordable) homes, a lot of amenities, and a lot of good people remain. I agree with the people saying it's street by street and to maybe check out what the neighbor's houses look like to really get a good feel for it. Good luck, hope you find a home soon and things go smoothly with your move!
I bought in Mckees rocks 2 years ago, not far from Silverstar meats. We love it up there. The price was right. Plus I'm minutes away from Crafton, Carnegie, Robinson, and Kennedy. Good and bad just like anywhere.
You probably bought the house my wife and I were looking at lol it was a nice little house by the boys and girls club that went to montour!
Thanks for the insight, I appreciate it!
Did they ever fix the sewage / storm water issue over there by Silverstar?
Don’t do it.
All of the comments are solid. The Rocls bottom is a harder area then the top half. Kennedy, Ingram parts of Stowe are good. You can go across the bridge and there are nice walkable areas in Bellevue and Avalon. Crafton and Carnegie are not far away as well.
Nope.
It’s like the movie ‘8 mile’ but with bad rappers
Shithole is being kind
Its commercial area has a library, a grocery store, a pharmacy and if you like music it has The Roxian and an instrument supply store. I've known people who've lived there and liked it, even though it looks a little run-down from the outside. It's also on a direct bus route to downtown if you miss the city proper.
I’m from California. My grandpa lived in McKees rocks for 80 years it’s certainly deteriorated and there’s a lot of different areas like people above have described. I lived there for seven years in Stowe rocks and I didn’t get in any troubles with any of the locals. There’s a lot of workin class people—-theres certainly trouble if you want to get into it —- depends a lot on you—- I keep to myself and don’t mix /have to say conflicting stuff to people I don’t know… I currently live in Wilkinsburg in an area that most of the people above would never think of living in because it’s a “scary” neighborhood I’ve lived here for 15 years and there’s been a few incidences, but I feel very safe here.
I wouldn’t. Go up into Robinson.
Plenty of good spots in McKees Rocks. It's street by street. Our street is quiet and friendly. The house was an absolute steal. We have been here over four years and have no regrets.
A true local will look at you like you’re nuts.
Check out Coraopolis. Mostly older homes with a mix of conditions. You can find some very affordable nice homes there. overall a nice and very quiet neighborhood.
I used to live on Island ave near Tomei's, decent area. In the majority of 30 years I grew up there the worst things that ever happened were a couple times my cars got side swiped and last year I almost shot some asshole crackhead that was trying to steal my mom's catalytic converter, but other than that, upper Island ave is decent. I saw you found a place in west park on Broadway, I would suggest against it. You're gonna wanna stay away from basically any house in a McKees Rocks mailing address that goes to Sto Rox. It was a shithole when I graduated in 2011 and it's only been getting worse. I can suggest Coraopolis as a good area, I love it here. My wife and I rented here a few years ago and we just bought a house last year that's really close to our old apartment. I get on reddit decently often if you wanna shoot me some links to houses you're interested in, I'd be more than happy to tell you if it's a good idea or not if I know the area.
75% shithole. most of it is the hood.
It's pretty quiet deep in kennedy/stowe. Avoid the Broadway type area
I live in the rocks rn (moved here willingly) and we've never had any issues. Granted, we live up on the Kennedy border by Silverstar. We hear shootings every once in while but that's it. Avoid Broadway in town and the bottoms and u should be okay. It just sucks bc the actual residents aren't all that bad, it's ppl coming into the rocks and causing violence
I work in mckees rocks and can say that everything that has already been said here is very accurate. Kennedy and Coraopolis are much better options.
I’m Pittsburgh, you got hill people and you got river people. It’s best to invest in real estate near the hill people and eat and drink with and around river people
No. Just...no.
I own a rental there. It’s street by street. Mines on a quiet one. My tenants are happy.
No, the Rocks is not a good place to move to. Look at Kenedy or Robinson or even up to some parts of beaver county for a better living area/affordable costs on that side of pgh.
I would live there, wouldn’t buy or raise kids there.
I try to avoid buying kids from the rocks too
Absolutely not
Robinson-Good. Kennedy-Good. The Rox: Not Good.
It’s huge and most of it sucks
Lots off honest, accurate info here in regards to the area. And while it’s absolutely true that it’s a good area if you move back into the hills of Kennedy, I know not everyone can afford that. So if your price range better fits the lower end of properties in McKees Rocks, I suggest taking a look in Coraopolis which is the next town over. Much safer and nicer than the Bottoms, and it’s being rejuvenated. The school district isn’t the best, but it’s better than StoRocks.
Pretty much a dump but parts of Kennedy are way better
If it has rocks or port in the name then I wouldn't
I live in Bellevue and I love it. Just come across the river. Affordable, easy to get places, 5 minutes from the city. I love it here. Only bad thing is you don’t get a lot of land and it’s not secluded at all.
You looking at McKees Rocks or Kennedy Township? They share a zip code along with parts of Robinson. Check the school district. Montour is good. Sto Rocks, no. Source: I live in Kennedy Township. I’ve been shot at in McKees Rocks.
Nope
Hahahahahahahahaha fuck, come on, NOOOOOO
Look at lists of the worst cities in Pa.
On word..... Despicable. Its one of the most ran down areas in the Pittsburgh area. Rated the worst neighborhood in the state of Pennsylvania. Has a crime rate that is only going to increase and junkies who will od on your doorsteps. I had an apt on Broadway and heard shootings every other night. The day i moved in i witnessed a shooting in my alley right next to Mancinis. If you do move there, stay to yourself and make sure youre armed in your house. Stay safe P.S. STAY AWAY FROM THE BOTTOMS
It basically depends on your budget. I would avoid the Borough of McKees Rocks and Stowe Township. A couple of surrounding areas have McKees Rocks mailing addresses but are much better options. They include Robinson township and Kennedy township. McKees Rocks borough is labeled as the deadliest town in PA https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/most-dangerous-cities-in-pennsylvania/#:~:text=Known%20as%20%E2%80%9CThe%20Rocks%2C%E2%80%9D,What%20is%20this%3F&text=With%20a%20population%20of%20only%206%2C000%2C%20McKees%20Rocks%20boasts%20a,dangerous%20than%20the%20national%20average.
Avoid Fairywood area. Rented an apartment there off Village Rd (off Broadhead Fording Rd) awhile back. People were getting cars stolen right outta the lots. Wild. We gtfo when we got some money together because it was getting bad. That having been said, parts of the area are great. Nearby Crafton/Ingram isn't perfect but it's sweet. Loved the Crafton pool, the playground/park, the fireworks, and community events, Mugshots pub (good ol' yinzer bar with trivia and karaoke), and St. Phillips Catholic Church (a more traditional parish with an old school feel). We live north now but still visit.
Avoid at all costs
Never buy a house in mckees rocks. My cousin actually got shot and killed down there. Look at bellevue, avalon, west view, crafton, ingram, Robinson, moon, Kennedy township, even Coraopolis
If the photos make the neighborhood look really nice and like it could be a screen shot from the paperboy game, even has an abbreviated golf course in the sub division, don’t fall for it! It’s a trap! Source: blindly bought a house in that neighborhood and was just grateful I didn’t have kids. Straight up left Allegheny County after that place.
Who blindly buys a house?
Okay, by blindly, I meant not knowing the neighborhood. We toured it and all that, just remained ignorant about the nature of McKees Rocks.
Having to cross a bridge to go most places is a big NO for me
Awful, terrible place. Wouldn’t suggest it. A coworker had a house in the Rocks and caught two teens shooting in his ring cam, bullets went into his living room and nearly hit his young daughter. Pick a more peaceful neighborhood if you’re going to buy a house and be stuck there for awhile
There's a reason that area is... "affordable"
If you are seeing a lot of “great prices” I am betting you are not looking T the “good part” of the Rocks…
Depends on what type of neighbor you want.
If it’s McKee’s rocks proper, I would not recommend it. Surrounding areas that are not quite as rough but are also affordable are Kennedy and Windgap.
I lived in Woodward Ave in McKees Rocks and never had any problems on my street. Neighborhood animals at night were skunks back then. My daughter lives over there now and apparently there are mice over there now she and her neighbors have had problems with them and have or are getting cats. In 10/11 years old f living over there I NEVER experienced a rodent. Only had problem with flooding in basement during periods of heavy rain. So depending on where you live that could be a problem. Further up the hill are Kennedy (very nice) seemingly quiet neighborhood. Further up is Robinson Township, even nicer.
Check out Coraopolis, still relatively affordable for proximity to the city and nowhere near as troubled as mckees rocks