Whether you are actively planning a move or just starting your research into the area, this definitive guide to living in Murrysville, Pennsylvania covers everything you need to know. Situated in Westmoreland County, the Municipality of Murrysville offers residents a perfect blend of small-town community charm alongside direct access to big-city amenities, dining, and employment hubs.
Located just a stone's throw away from the thriving city of Pittsburgh, Murrysville continues to be one of the region's most highly sought-after suburbs. Keep reading to explore the best neighborhoods, local schools, daily transit options, and top community activities to see if Murrysville has what you are looking for in your next home.
Where is Murrysville, PA Located?
Murrysville is situated roughly 20 miles east of downtown Pittsburgh, sitting right beyond the county line that separates Allegheny County and Westmoreland County. This positioning gives residents an easy drive into the city while allowing them to enjoy the scenic, rolling landscapes of the Western Allegheny Plateau.
For long-distance travelers and commuters, Murrysville offers excellent regional connectivity. Major East Coast metropolitan hubs like New York City, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Detroit are all accessible within a scenic, sub-6-hour drive via the nearby Pennsylvania Turnpike corridors.
Why Do Homebuyers Choose Murrysville?
For individuals looking for a quieter pace of life without sacrificing suburban convenience, Murrysville is a premier choice. Featuring an array of local restaurants, shopping strips along the Route 22 corridor, and pristine nature reserves, residents rarely have to travel far for daily essentials. It is a highly welcoming community that caters to all walks of life—from upwardly mobile business professionals and growing families to retirees looking for peace and quiet.
A Brief Look at Murrysville's History
Up until the mid-18th century, the area now known as the Municipality of Murrysville was a dense wilderness. A notable historical event occurred in 1758 during the French and Indian War, when Brigadier General John Forbes’ expeditionary forces—accompanied by a young Colonel George Washington—carved out Forbes Road on their final assault to seize Fort Duquesne. This military road laid the groundwork for modern transportation in the region. Over the next two centuries, the slow growth of Pittsburgh naturally extended outward, turning Murrysville from a rural settlement into a thriving, independent municipality.
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Local Business, Jobs, and Economy
While a significant percentage of Murrysville residents commute directly into downtown Pittsburgh or the Oakland university district for work, the municipality boasts a growing commercial ecosystem of its own. Local commercial centers support thriving medical practices, professional services, retail hubs, and engineering offices.
According to regional economic data, the average salary in Murrysville sits around $63,000, with median household incomes for dual-income families frequently exceeding $100,000. The highest-paying local employment sectors are anchored heavily in tech and manufacturing, led by Software Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and Systems Developers.
The Education System in Murrysville
School districts are a massive driving factor for families moving to Westmoreland County. The public schools in the Municipality of Murrysville are operated by the highly acclaimed Franklin Regional School District, known across the state for its academic excellence.
Franklin Regional Public Schools:
- Elementary Schools: Sloan Elementary School, Heritage Elementary School, and Newlonsburg Elementary School.
- Middle Schools: Franklin Regional Middle School.
- High Schools: Franklin Regional High School.
Franklin Regional High School boasts an exceptional graduation rate of 99.3%, vastly outperforming national averages. The district consistently receives top rankings for its college prep curriculum, athletic programs, and STEM courses.
Alternative & Higher Education Options
For families seeking private or parochial options, Mother of Sorrows Catholic School provides education for children from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. While there are no major universities directly within the municipality boundaries, several renowned higher-education institutions sit within a convenient 15-mile radius:
- Penn State New Kensington (Upper Burrell, PA) — 8 miles
- Penn State Greater Allegheny (McKeesport, PA) — 11 miles
- Seton Hill University (Greensburg, PA) — 12 miles
- University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg (Greensburg, PA) — 12 miles
The Best Neighborhoods in Murrysville, PA
Murrysville features a diverse mix of housing stock, ranging from established mid-century subdivisions to sprawling custom luxury estates on acreage.
Franklin Estates
Located conveniently near Route 22 and Harrison City Road, Franklin Estates is a quiet, highly welcoming neighborhood. Homes here typically feature grand, two-story colonial architecture situated on expansive, manicured lots. The majority of properties offer 3 to 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and attached multi-car garages. With home values trending upward, it stands as one of the area's premier communities, offering quick access to Franklin Estates Park, Hillside Park, and the exclusive Westmoreland Country Club golf course.
Mallard Landing
Tucked into the scenic rolling hills of Westmoreland County, Mallard Landing is an exclusive subdivision built primarily by Patalsky Homes Inc. Located along Greenhead Court, these high-end custom properties sit on spacious 1 to 3-acre lots, giving residents a distinct country feel without sacrificing modern neighborhood luxuries. Properties offer expansive floor plans with 3 to 5 bedrooms and custom finishes.
Heather Highlands
If you are looking for fantastic value and square footage without a luxury price tag, Heather Highlands is an ideal fit. This established family neighborhood features classic split-levels and two-story homes surrounded by mature trees. With quiet, low-traffic streets, it is a perfect option for first-time homebuyers and growing families looking to plant roots in the school district.
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Murrysville Transportation & Commuter Guide
Most residents rely on private vehicles or carpools to get around, using the main artery of US Route 22 to connect directly to the Parkway East (I-376). However, commuters looking to bypass city parking fees can utilize the Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) commuter bus system, which operates park-and-ride routes directly into downtown Pittsburgh.
Proximity to Key Regional Destinations:
- Downtown Pittsburgh: 17.7 miles via I-376 W (Approx. 25–35 minutes)
- Greensburg, PA: 15.1 miles via US-22 E (Approx. 20 minutes)
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT): 34.7 miles via I-376 W (Approx. 45 minutes)
Additionally, nearby Monroeville offers a regional Greyhound station providing seamless bus connections to major transit hubs across the Northeast corridor.
Dining & Restaurants in Murrysville
The culinary scene in Murrysville has exploded in recent years, with local favorites clustered right along the active Route 22 corridor:
- Osteria Pasqualino: A warm, authentic Italian staple featuring traditional homemade pasta dishes, an excellent wine selection, and a seasonal outdoor patio.
- Atria's Restaurant: A sophisticated yet casual neighborhood gathering place known for its diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, prime steaks, signature burgers, and a full-service bar.
- North Park Lounge Murrysville: The ultimate local spot for catching the Steelers or Penguins game, featuring an extensive tap list, famous wings, and classic American lounge fare.
Parks, Recreation, and Outdoor Activities
One of the greatest benefits of living in Murrysville is the abundance of green space, public parks, and protected wildlife sanctuaries right in your backyard.
Murrysville Community Park
Serving as the crown jewel of the local park system, Murrysville Community Park features a modern splash pad, expansive playgrounds, a dedicated dog park, and protected wetlands. Visitors can explore miles of paved walking trails and wooded hiking paths, while sports enthusiasts take advantage of the massive Rotary Miracle Sports Complex, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields.
Duff Park
Designated as a official Wild Plant Sanctuary by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Duff Park is a pristine, heavily wooded nature reserve running parallel to Route 22. It features rugged, scenic hiking and mountain biking trails that showcase old-growth timber and native spring wildflowers.
Premier Golf Courses
Golfers will feel right at home in Murrysville, surrounded by excellent fairways nestled into the Westmoreland countryside:
- Meadowink Golf Course: A beautifully manicured, public 18-hole course set against the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains.
- Rolling Fields Golf Club: Located on Hankey Church Road, this course offers a challenging layout for all skill levels, a fully stocked pro shop, and an active clubhouse.
- Murrysville Golf Course: A classic par-72 course complete with a driving range and an excellent on-site restaurant perfect for post-round meals.
Annual Community Events
Murrysville hosts a variety of family-focused annual traditions that bring the community together throughout the year:
- Annual Easter Egg Hunt: Held at Murrysville Community Park, this massive spring event includes a dedicated hunt for children, alongside a popular "dogs-only" egg hunt held earlier in the day.
- Tuesdays at Townsend: A popular summer concert series at the Townsend Park pavilion, featuring live music from local bands, family activities, and rotating local food trucks.
- Trick or Treat on the Trail: A safe, festive autumn event where local children dress up and collect candy from community vendors along the scenic Westmoreland Heritage Trail.
- Santa at Sardis: A cozy winter tradition at Sardis Park featuring holiday bonfires, hot chocolate, children's crafts, and a direct meet-and-greet with Santa Claus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Murrysville
What school district serves Murrysville, PA?
The Municipality of Murrysville is served by the highly-rated Franklin Regional School District. It includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and Franklin Regional High School, which boasts a 99.3% graduation rate and is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in Pennsylvania.
How long is the commute from Murrysville to downtown Pittsburgh?
Murrysville is about 20 miles east of Pittsburgh. Driving via US Route 22 and I-376 West typically takes 25 to 35 minutes off-peak. During peak rush hours, expect the commute to take 45 to 60 minutes due to standard Parkway East traffic.
Does Murrysville have public transportation options?
While there is no local internal transit system, the Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides commuter bus routes. These offer convenient park-and-ride options directly from the Route 22 corridor into downtown Pittsburgh, allowing commuters to easily skip city driving and parking fees.
What are the best outdoor recreational spots in Murrysville?
Murrysville is known for its incredible green spaces. Top spots include Murrysville Community Park, featuring a splash pad and sports complexes, and Duff Park, a protected Wild Plant Sanctuary with rugged hiking and biking trails. Golfers can also enjoy three local courses, including Murrysville Golf Course.
Partner With a Trusted Murrysville Real Estate Expert
With its unbeatable school system, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to the city of Pittsburgh, it's easy to see why so many buyers are looking for homes in Murrysville, PA. If you are considering buying, selling, or relocating to the Westmoreland County area, our team is here to guide you through the local market with confidence.
Have questions about current market trends, property taxes, or upcoming listings? Contact Adam Slivka and Team today for a complimentary consultation.
