Ben Avon, PA

Ben Avon sits on the bluffs overlooking the Ohio River, about six miles northwest of Downtown Pittsburgh. True to its Scottish name, which means "hill by the water," this small borough of roughly 1,900 residents offers a quiet, leafy retreat from the city. Stroll down the residential streets and you'll find plenty of historic charm, with shaded sidewalks, classic Victorian and Craftsman homes, and neighbors chatting from front porches. It gives you a close-knit, small-town atmosphere with an easy commute straight down Route 65.

Families are often drawn here for the well-regarded Avonworth School District, which serves the borough and neighboring areas. Ben Avon is mostly residential, so locals head along Ohio River Boulevard for everyday groceries and dining, or take a quick drive into Pittsburgh for major shopping, museums, and work. With quick access to I-79 and I-279, getting around the region is straightforward, making it an appealing spot for anyone looking for suburban calm without giving up city convenience.