Is Duquesne Safe, Pros and cons of living in Duquesne

Duquesne, a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, is a community with a distinct character shaped by its industrial past and evolving present. It offers a glimpse into a more affordable segment of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, presenting a unique set of advantages and challenges for potential residents. Understanding these aspects is key for anyone considering making Duquesne their home.

The cost of living in Duquesne is notably lower than the national average. Overall living expenses are approximately 12% less than the national average (according to PayScale). Housing expenses are particularly attractive, being about 60% lower than the national average (according to PayScale). This affordability extends to rent, with the average rent in Duquesne being $1,385, which is 30.75% lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow). The median home value in Duquesne is also significantly lower than the national median, with figures around $60,832 (as reported by Livability.com) and even lower estimates such as $57,543 (according to BestNeighborhood.org).

Is it Safe to Live in Duquesne?

Duquesne faces challenges regarding safety, with crime rates that are higher than both state and national averages. The violent crime rate in Duquesne is 9.517 per 1,000 residents (according to CrimeGrade.org), and your chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 141 (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime rates also present concerns, with a rate of 12 per one thousand population (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Crime Statistics

NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data indicates that Duquesne has a crime rate considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Relative to Pennsylvania, Duquesne’s crime rate is higher than 90% of the state’s cities and towns (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). When compared to communities of similar population size, Duquesne’s combined violent and property crime rate is also significantly above average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). CrimeGrade.org ranks Duquesne in the 4th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than only 4% of cities nationwide (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).

Safety Perceptions and Neighborhoods

Residents generally consider the south part of Duquesne to be the safest area within the borough (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Conversely, the east neighborhoods present a higher risk, with a chance of being a victim of violent crime ranging from 1 in 69 in these areas (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). The cost of crime per resident in Duquesne is estimated at $795 per year, which is higher than both the national and Pennsylvania state averages (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).

Housing and Real Estate in Duquesne

The housing market in Duquesne is characterized by its affordability, though it has seen recent appreciation. The median sale price of a home in Duquesne was $118K in March 2026, an increase of 28.1% compared to the previous year (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Duquesne tend to sell after an average of 109 days on the market, a significant increase from 33 days in the prior year (as reported by Redfin).

Home Prices and Trends

The Duquesne housing market is considered somewhat competitive, scoring 44 out of 100 on Redfin’s Compete Score (as reported by Redfin). The median sale price per square foot in Duquesne is $91, which is up 28.2% since last year (as reported by Redfin). While the market has seen price increases, homes in Duquesne are still significantly less expensive than the U.S. median (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org).

Rental Market

For renters, Duquesne offers a more affordable option compared to the national average. The average rent in Duquesne, PA, is $1,385 per month (as reported by Zillow). This is notably lower than the national average rent of $2,000 (as reported by Zillow). Apartments for rent can range widely, with some listings around $720 for a two-bedroom apartment and others reaching higher prices (as reported by Zillow and Trulia).

Job Market and Economy

The employment landscape in Duquesne reflects a community with an active labor force. The employment rate in Duquesne, PA, is currently 90.60% (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org). The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania has recently reached a record low of 3.9% (as reported by TribLIVE.com).

Major Employers

While specific major employers within Duquesne are not detailed, the broader Pittsburgh area boasts significant industries. Major employers in the region include U.S. Steel Corporation, a prominent player in manufacturing (as reported by Indeed.com). Duquesne University is also a notable institution in the Pittsburgh area, employing a substantial number of individuals and contributing to the local economy (as reported by Zippia).

Salaries and Wages

The average salary in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, is approximately $43,094 per year, or $20.72 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median wage is around $39,900 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). For those employed by the Duquesne City School District, the average annual salary is estimated to be $78,342 (as reported by Salary.com).

Climate and Weather in Duquesne

Duquesne experiences a climate with distinct seasons, characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The temperature typically varies from 23°F to 83°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 7°F or exceeding 91°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The warmest month is July, with average highs around 83°F and lows of 66°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 25°F and highs of 38°F (as reported by Weather Spark).

Temperature and Precipitation

Summers in Duquesne are warm and partly cloudy, while winters are very cold, snowy, and mostly cloudy (as reported by Weather Spark). The warm season lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 74°F. The cold season spans from early December to early March, with daily highs typically below 46°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest month being June, averaging 3.4 inches of rain, and the driest month being January, with about 1.6 inches (as reported by Weather Spark).

Seasonal Variations

The climate offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities from mid-June to mid-September, with a peak in late August (as reported by Weather Spark). However, residents should be prepared for the cold and snow during winter months, which can significantly impact daily life and travel.

Education and Schools in Duquesne

The educational landscape in Duquesne includes public and private school options. Duquesne Elementary School is a public school serving grades PK-8, with a student-teacher ratio of 9 to 1 (as reported by Niche). According to state test scores, 5% of students at Duquesne Elementary are proficient in math and 15% in reading (as reported by Niche).

School Ratings and Performance

Duquesne Elementary School has an overall Niche grade of C- (as reported by Niche). Niche rankings are based on analyses of U.S. Department of Education statistics and reviews. The school is noted for being among the most diverse public K-8 schools in Pennsylvania (as reported by Niche). Other nearby school options include Westinghouse Arts Academy Charter School and South Allegheny High School, which have received mixed reviews (as reported by Niche).

School District Overview

Duquesne is part of the Duquesne City School District. While Duquesne Elementary is a key institution, other schools in the district and nearby areas serve the community. The quality of education and school ratings can vary, making it important for families to research specific schools within the district.

Demographics and Community

Duquesne is a community with a population of approximately 5,149 residents (as reported by Niche). The borough offers a dense suburban feel, with a majority of residents choosing to rent their homes (as reported by Niche). The community is noted for its diversity, ranking as one of the most diverse suburbs in Pennsylvania (as reported by Niche).

Population and Diversity

Duquesne is a suburb of Pittsburgh with a population of 5,149 individuals (as reported by Niche). The community is described as having a dense suburban feel, and most residents rent their homes (as reported by Niche). Duquesne is recognized for its diversity, ranking 17th out of 713 suburbs in Pennsylvania for diversity (as reported by Niche).

Resident Demographics

Residents of Duquesne tend to lean liberal (as reported by Niche). The community offers a variety of local amenities, including numerous bars and restaurants (as reported by Niche). However, some residents have noted challenges such as deteriorating road conditions and a significant number of abandoned buildings within the city (as reported by Niche).