What to know when moving to Pittsburg, CA
Pittsburg at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 39.8% of residents are renters and the median household income is $95,035.
- The Major Draw:
- With a median gross rent of $2,145, housing costs are competitive within Contra Costa County.
- The Reality Check:
- 11.6% of the population lives below the poverty line, which may affect local amenities.
- Commute:
- 6.6% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $2,145/month in rent to secure a place in this area.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Pittsburg presents a mix of renters and homeowners, with 39.8% of the population renting their homes. The median household income is $95,035, and the education level reflects that, with 21.6% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area has a relatively high poverty rate of 11.6%, which could influence the availability of local services.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a very low cost of living, as rental prices are significant compared to the income levels.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,145, which may be on the higher side for some budgets.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $563,300, indicating a competitive housing market.
- Education level is notable with 21.6% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The poverty rate stands at 11.6%, which may impact community services.
- 6.6% of residents commute using public transit.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
California has seen mixed trends in crime rates, with property crime decreasing by 26.1% from 2022 to 2025. The state annual rate for property crime is 1,764 per 100,000, which is 14% higher than the national average. Violent crime is also on a downward trend, with a rate of 415.5 per 100,000, 27.7% higher than the national average.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has decreased by 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
In the Pittsburg area, there are a total of 9 postsecondary institutions available for residents.
- Los Medanos College
- Carrington College-Pleasant Hill Campus (Pleasant Hill)
- Contra Costa Medical Career College (Antioch)
- Diablo Valley College (Pleasant Hill)
- Mt. Diablo Adult Education-Mt. Diablo USD (Concord)
- Paul Mitchell the School-East Bay (Pleasant Hill)
- Unitek College - Concord (Concord)
- Urban Barber College (Concord)
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data for Pittsburg is unavailable, there are several outdoor spots nearby that residents can enjoy.
- Contra Loma Regional Park - rating 4.6 (1,887 reviews)
- Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve - rating 4.7 (1,421 reviews)
- Newhall Community Park - rating 4.6 (1,115 reviews)
- Buchanan Park - rating 4.3 (853 reviews)
- Willow Pass Community Park - rating 4.4 (703 reviews)
Source: Google Places API (New).
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Contra Costa County, the unemployment rate is currently at 4.5%, with a labor force of 583,012 people.
- Unemployment rate: 4.5% (December 2025)
- Total employment: 556,672
- Total labor force: 583,012
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.