$157,600Average Value$156Average Price per Sq Ft95Homes For Sale
The Aluminum City reinvents itself as a Corridor of Innovation
On the east side of the Allegheny River, New Kensington has a long industrial history dating back to the late 19th century. The Burrell Improvement Co. purchased the land that would eventually become New Kensington in 1890, using a grid pattern to lay out the city with avenues and streets that were reminiscent of Pittsburgh. Industrial powerhouses like Alcoa opened their doors along the riverfront in 1891, and New Kensington grew into a manufacturing hub known as the Aluminum City. This heyday wouldn’t last forever, though, as the city underwent rapid deindustrialization and depopulation in the 1970s and ‘80s after major employers like Alcoa moved away. Today, New Kensington is home to just under 12,000 people and is working to bring jobs back to the community with the growth of the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park. The city is also hoping to revitalize its historic downtown, transforming boarded-up storefronts into a “Corridor of Innovation” with the help of Penn State New Kensington. “It’s a friendly community where everyone knows their neighbors,” says Janet Ryan, the broker and owner of Century 21 American Heritage Realty. “You know who you can go to for help.”
On the east side of the Allegheny River, New Kensington has an industrial history from 19th-c.
There are plenty of food options to choose from at Fridays on Fifth.
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Home prices less than half the national median
Homebuyers in New Kensington will find a variety of housing styles and options. Foursquares and two-story cottages are the norm around downtown, while ranch-style and bi-level homes are more common on the outskirts of town. The median price of single-family homes is $165,000, less than half the national median of about $419,000. Homes also tend to be more affordable than in the rest of the Pittsburgh metro area, where the median price of single-family homes is just under $240,000. There are also several townhouse and condo developments farther from the city center, and townhouses typically sell for around $168,000. Residents who live in the western half of town alongside the Allegheny River may be required to purchase flood insurance.
New Kensington is also home to Aluminum City Terrace, a housing development built in the 1940s to accommodate the city’s growing workforce during WWII. With 35 buildings and 250 units, it began functioning as a co-op in 1948 and remains standing today as a prime example of wartime housing.
In New Kensington, the median price of single-family homes is $165,000.
In New Kensington the American Foursquares have covered porches, which is great for sunny days.
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The New Kensington Downtown Historic District and a local arts scene
Noted for its architectural diversity, the New Kensington Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and protects the town’s original business district around Fourth and Fifth Avenues. It continues to serve as the city’s center for shopping and dining and features a handful of boutiques, cafés and breweries. Downtown is also undergoing revitalization thanks to a 10-year plan developed by Olde Town Overhaul, a local business development group that works to restore traditional Main Street communities. The New Kensington Downtown Partnership supports the city’s local businesses with monthly Fridays on Fifth, an annual Shop Small Crawl and a seasonal farmers market set to begin in 2025.
In addition to shopping and dining, downtown hosts a growing arts scene. Preserving Record Shop has brought new life to one of New Kensington’s old churches, and its basement doubles as a performance venue known as Preserving Underground. The New Kensington Arts Center highlights local talent, and the Art in the Alley project received a $23,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Westmoreland County in 2024 to continue adding murals to the downtown streetscape.
New Kensington Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Yinzpired is located in New Kensington's original business district around Fourth and Fifth Ave.
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Pittsburgh commutes, WCTA bus service and riverfront manufacturing park
The Westmoreland County Transit Authority offers local bus service, with stops concentrated around downtown and the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park, but residents typically rely on their cars to get around. Pittsburgh is about a 20-mile drive away, and commuters can access the Steel City via the C.L. Schmitt Bridge and Pennsylvania Route 28. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the average travel time to work in New Kensington is 25 minutes. For air travel, Pittsburgh International Airport is about 38 miles away.
While New Kensington is no longer known as the Aluminum City, the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park has brought hundreds of jobs back to the city’s industrial waterfront. The facility is anchored by Re:Build Manufacturing and received $6 million of state grants in 2024 to continue expanding its industrial operations.
New Kensington public and Pittsburgh private schools
The New Kensington-Arnold School District earns an overall grade of C-minus from Niche and has an average student-teacher ratio of 13-to-1. It consists of an early childhood education center, a lower elementary school, an upper elementary school and a junior/senior high school, all of which receive a C-minus or higher from Niche. Nearby private school options include The Kiski School, a college-preparatory boarding school less than 20 miles from New Kensington. Kiski serves ninth through 12th grade, and Niche ranks it as the best private high school in Westmoreland County. Penn State New Kensington, a commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University, is about 5 miles from town and offers a variety of baccalaureate and associate degree programs.
Martin Elementary School is part of The NEw Kensington-Arnold School District.
The Kiski School, a college-preparatory boarding school less than 20 miles from New Kensington.
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Memorial Park, indoor ice arena and a small marina on the Allegheny River
New Kensington experiences all four seasons, with humid summers and snowy winters that are typical across the Pittsburgh Metro Area. According to the Trust for Public Land, 35% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. Memorial Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and features a playground, various athletic facilities and several picnic pavilions. The park also contains a memorial to local Veterans, with an M5 anti-tank gun from the U.S. Army and an F-80 fighter plane used by the U.S. Air Force. New Kensington is home to the Pittsburgh Ice Arena, an indoor facility with two NHL-sized ice rinks that are open year-round. The city takes advantage of its proximity to the Allegheny River with the New Kensington Hunter’s and Fisherman’s Club and The Lighthouse Marina. Organizations like the Peoples Library and Valley Points Family YMCA support the community with recreational and educational programming for all ages.
F-80 fighter plane used by the U.S. Air Force is located in Memorial Park.
Riverside Park is located at the banks of Allegheny River.
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Festivities include The Annual City of New Kensington Christmas Parade
New Kensington hosts a variety of events to celebrate the area. Band Blast brings live music, food trucks and local vendors to Memorial Park. A local favorite for over a decade, the daylong concert doubles as a fundraiser for the park’s ongoing preservation. In December, a festive tree lighting lights up downtown before residents gather at the New Kensington Fire Department for the Mayor’s Annual Holiday Dinner. The annual City of New Kensington Christmas Parade takes place the following day and spreads even more holiday cheer throughout downtown as festive floats, local marching bands and more make their way down Fourth and Fifth avenues.
There is always live music at Fridays on Fifth in New Kensington.
Sing along to the tones at the Live Music at Voodoo Brewery event.
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Crime rates and a decrease in the number of property-related crimes
While the city’s overall CAP Index crime score is on par with the national average of 4, the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer shows that property-crime rates rank above national figures. However, the number of property crimes reported to the New Kensington Police Department decreased by nearly 10% between 2020 and 2024. The same data shows that violent crime rates remain consistently below national figures.
Written By
Sally Stimpson
Photography Contributed By
Anna Dukovich
Video By
Taylor Noll
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Nathaniel Nieland,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in New Kensington, PA sell after 77 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in New Kensington, PA over the last 12 months is $179,900, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Space & Style Await! This meticulously maintained multi-level gem combines modern updates with unbeatable curb appeal. The heart of the home features a sun-drenched living room that flows effortlessly into a formal dining area, perfect for seamless entertaining. Culinary enthusiasts will love the stylishly updated kitchen, which offers peaceful views of the expansive backyard and private covered
Welcome to this well-maintained home nestled on a cul de sac street that perfectly balances comfort and charm. The inviting entry features tile flooring, crown molding, and a convenient coat closet. The bright living room boasts gleaming hardwood floors, a bay window, and elegant crown molding. The adjoining dining room continues the hardwood floors, includes a ceiling fan, and opens to a large
Welcome home to this charming and well-maintained townhome nestled in the desirable Ramparts community. This inviting two-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath residence blends comfort, style, and thoughtful updates throughout. Enjoy peace of mind with a newer furnace, central A/C, and hot water heater, all installed in 2019. The main living area is ideal for relaxing or entertaining, featuring wired
Classic 2-story brick Colonial home with timeless charm & modern upgrades throughout. 3 spacious bedrooms & a thoughtfully expanded layout, it perfectly balances form & function. Main level features a formal living room & dining room. A cozy familyroom & an enlarged kitchen, expanded by a previous owner, seamlessly integrates a cozy breakfast area. White cabinetry contrasts beautifully with sleek
Space & Style Await! This meticulously maintained multi-level gem combines modern updates with unbeatable curb appeal. The heart of the home features a sun-drenched living room that flows effortlessly into a formal dining area, perfect for seamless entertaining. Culinary enthusiasts will love the stylishly updated kitchen, which offers peaceful views of the expansive backyard and private covered
Beautiful 2-Story Brick Home with Tons of Charm!Step into this stunning 2-story brick home featuring gorgeous hardwood floors throughout and an abundance of natural light. Perfect for both entertaining and relaxing, you'll love the two spacious decks—one upper and one lower patio—ideal for summer gatherings or quiet evenings at home.Enjoy cozy nights by the gas fireplace in the inviting
Discover low-maintenance living in this spacious stand-alone townhouse in the desirable Oakmont Heights plan! This 3bdrm home plus office/flex space offers room for work, guests, or hobbies. The elegant primary suite features a tray ceiling with recessed lights and ceiling fan, large WIC, and fabulous private bath with separate shower and soaking tub. Entertain with ease in the open-concept floor
Discover this inviting 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath residence situated at 1620 Ridge Avenue in Arnold. The home features a spacious upper level with all three bedrooms, including a walk-in closet in the master suite, and a full bathroom for convenience and comfort. The heart of the home showcases a modern kitchen with granite countertops, ideal for both everyday meals and entertaining along with plenty of
Welcome to 931 Wildlife Lodge Rd! This sweet bungalow is situated on 1 acre of land, close to the heart of Lower Burrell. Newer roof, siding, flooring & paint. This is a perfect starter or downsizer with plenty of room for a future garage, additions if desired or a massive garden out back. Home warranty included for your peace of mind.
Oakmont Heights Better than new! This stunning patio home offers one-level living at its finest and is just two years young! Thoughtfully upgraded throughout, featuring custom window treatments, a built-in stereo sound system and Sonova solar panels for energy efficiency and reduced electric bills. The inviting entry opens to a bright and airy open concept living, dining, and kitchen area filled
Welcome to this 3-bed, split-level home in Melwood Manor, Allegheny Twp. The main floor offers a living room, an open kitchen, & dining room w/a sliding glass door opening to a new deck. Down the hallway is a full bath, 3 beds, a laundry chute, & 2 hallway closets. The primary bed includes its own en-suite half bath. The lower level features an additional bonus room (4th bed), a partial bathroom,
Welcome home to this beautiful two bedroom on a corner lot and quiet street! The entryway/mudroom beams with light as you enter inside. Spacious dining and living room, perfect for entertaining. Kitchen has all of the essentials as well as access to your yard space and off street parking pad in the rear! Second floor has two large bedrooms and a lovely bright bathroom! Basement is great for extra
Three residential lots available in a peaceful neighborhood! Conveniently located near schools, shops, and recreation, this property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and urban access!
Welcome home to this generously sized Cape Cod offering character and exceptional versatility. A charming covered front porch sets the tone and invites you inside to a large living room anchored by a cozy wood-burning fireplace. The main level also features a formal dining room, a well-appointed kitchen, two comfortable bedrooms, and a full bath, providing the convenience of first-floor living.
Tucked away on a full acre of greenery, 2035 Aurora Drive offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and potential. With 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths—including a main-level master suite—this brick home is filled with flexible living areas, cozy touches, and a partially finished walk-out basement ready for game nights, hobbies, or unwinding in the home’s relaxing sauna. The expansive, tree-lined
Welcome to Craigdell Gardens, located at 300 Craigdell Road in New Kensington, PA, offering a range of spacious studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartment homes in a peaceful, well-maintained community. With a convenient location just minutes from Route 28, residents enjoy easy access to downtown Pittsburgh, shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as nearby parks and outdoor recreation areas.
This charming three-bedroom, one-bathroom home has been freshly updated with new flooring and paint throughout. The first floor features a spacious living room, dining room, and updated kitchen. Upstairs, you’ll find all four bedrooms and a beautifully updated full bathroom. Additional features include laundry hookups in the basement, on-street parking, and the option for tenants to provide
Property Id: 1944523Don’t miss this massive 2 - bedroom, 2-bathroom unit in a fully renovated duplex!Everything is brand new - from the electrical system, plumbing, boiler, floors, bathrooms - you name it! Move-in ready and built for comfort.Features:2 spacious bedrooms2 full bathroomsBrand new electrical & plumbingNew boilerFully updated interiorQuiet
This charming four-bedroom, one-bathroom home has been freshly updated with new flooring and paint throughout. The first floor features a spacious living room, dining room, and updated kitchen. Upstairs, you’ll find all four bedrooms and a beautifully updated full bathroom. Additional features include laundry hookups in the basement, on-street parking, and the option for tenants to provide window
Property Id: 982837Welcome to this charming 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, single family home in Lower Burrell, PA. Featuring modern appliances & amenities such as range, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Included basement , Front porch and Convenient off-street parking. Available for rent starting January 1st, 2026. Don't miss out on this cozy living space, Yard and great
Welcome home to Kellywood Manor. This lovely community is located with in the Plum Boro school district. This one bedroom studio has been renovated and features today's modern finishes including newer paint, newer lighting, vinyl hardwood flooring throughout, updated fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and a large bathroom with newer fixtures. The property has plenty of off street parking
Patrick ConleyBERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES THE PREFERRED PROP
Property Id: 2097884A building filled with professionals just like your self! Linens, towels, spices, dishes, bed, internet, single serve coffee maker... all ready and waiting for you.Private access roomOf course, utilities are included in the rent.Furnished with all starter items and basic necessities like Tp and paper towels will be restocked!
Welcome home to Kellywood Manor. This lovely community is located with in the Plum Boro school district. With an additional den space this 2 bedroom has been renovated and features today's modern finishes including paint, lighting, vinyl hardwood flooring 1st floor and carpeting in the second floor, updated fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and a large bathroom with fixtures. The property
Patrick ConleyBERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES THE PREFERRED PROP
Property Id: 1786707This fully renovated 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits on a rare triple-lot property, offering an oversized yard, excellent parking, and tons of usable space inside and out.The interior features a large living room filled with natural light and an exceptionally large dining room, perfect for entertaining or flexible use. The eat-in kitchen has been completely
LEASE. Office Space. Entry area, reception/office area and two separate offices. Nice open space. Bathroom and extra room for storage, etc. New floors and paint. Unit #2 has 1002 square feet ($980 per month) Unit #2 pays 1/4 water/sewage and snow removal: Gas, Electric Separate.
Property Id: 2097886Welcome to this charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom room in New Kensington, PA. Enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry, security cameras, and a secure building. With utilities included and a list of amenities including a dryer, refrigerator, and microwave, this furnished property is perfect for your next home. Don't miss out on this opportunity!Designed for the
READ IN FULL:Rent includes water, sewage, garbageAND high speed internet Fully Furnished!! In unit laundry!!Welcome to 639 Bell Street a spacious and thoughtfully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath unit perfect for families. This bright and inviting home features a private primary suite with its own full bathroom, ideal for extra privacy or a comfortable work-from-home setup. Enjoy an
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