Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Southwest, PA
Considering a move to Southwest, PA? With about 5,200 residents, this friendly community offers affordable living, with median home prices around $128,000 and rents near $810. Crime rates are low, commutes are reasonable at 26 minutes, and schools offer strong student-teacher ratios. Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, reliable healthcare options nearby, and a lower cost of living than the national average—making Southwest a great choice for those seeking small-town charm and value.
Demographics - Southwest, PA
Demographics - Southwest, PA
Southwest, PA is a close-knit community of about 5,200 people, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 42. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a small but diverse mix of non-English speakers, reflecting a friendly and mature atmosphere ideal for families and retirees.
Population:
5,200
Density:
420 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.5%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Southwest, PA?
Living in Southwest is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $128,000. Residents benefit from lower housing and utility costs, making it an attractive destination for those seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
Median House Value:
$128,000
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.6
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
71.0
Utilities:
95.8
Transportation:
83.5
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Southwest, PA a safe place to live?
Southwest experiences low crime rates, with violent crime significantly below national averages and property crime risk at about 1 in 95. This safe environment makes it especially appealing to families and those prioritizing peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
145
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,195
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 690
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Southwest, PA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 83°F and winters that dip to around 20°F. The area receives about 41 inches of annual rainfall and has nearly half its days filled with sunshine, offering a balanced climate for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $51,800 and a strong educational background, with over 91% of adults holding a high school diploma. Commute times average just under 26 minutes, and the area maintains a welcoming, small-town feel with accessible amenities.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$51,800
Family Income:
$63,100
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$41,400
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.7%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
25.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
23.6%
Education
How are the schools in Southwest, PA?
Southwest offers quality public and private education options, with favorable student-teacher ratios and schools serving all grade levels. Proximity to higher education institutions like Seton Hill University and the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg provides additional opportunities for lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Southwest Elementary School
Street:
206 W Pittsburgh St
Phone:
724-837-8190
Students:
354
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
West Hempfield Middle School
Street:
156 Northumberland Dr
Phone:
724-837-6130
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
Greensburg Central Catholic High School
Street:
911 Armory Dr
Phone:
724-834-0310
Students:
315

Colleges
Name:
Seton Hill University
City:
Greensburg
State:
PA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg
City:
Greensburg
State:
PA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Southwest residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Excela Health Westmoreland and UPMC East nearby, and an impressive 91.8% health insurance coverage rate. The community benefits from a solid physician-to-population ratio, ensuring reliable medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital
Address:
532 W Pittsburgh St, Greensburg, PA 15601
Phone:
(724) 832-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UPMC East
Address:
2775 Mosside Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146
Phone:
(412) 357-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Southwest, PA?
The housing market in Southwest is stable and affordable, highlighted by a median home price of $128,000 and owner-occupancy rates above 73%. Modest home appreciation and a healthy rental market make this area appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$128,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Southwest is served by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), offering a full range of DMV services from its main office in Harrisburg as well as convenient online resources for residents.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) - DMV
Address:
1101 S Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17104
Phone:
1-800-932-4600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.