The cost of living there is awesome. I just got a 1 br. in Shadyside for 620 (all utilities included). Coming for NJ, that was a huge shock. Granted the place is small, and it's 1.5 miles from the school, but it's across from a beautiful neighborhood (and Walnut Street, in case I ever have money to shop with :-D ). It feels safe, and it's clean...so I'm happy.