Trying to choose between Plum and Murrysville for your next move? You are not alone. Both offer strong suburban living east of Pittsburgh, but they feel different day to day. If you want a clear, practical comparison focused on commute, parks, housing, conveniences, and resale, you are in the right place. Let’s dive in.
Quick snapshot: Plum vs. Murrysville
- Commute and access
- Plum sits closer to Monroeville and the Parkway East corridor into Pittsburgh. That usually means shorter drives to east‑side employers, hospitals, and retail.
- Murrysville is farther east with more semi‑rural roads. Drives can be longer but often feel steadier once you learn the best routes.
- Parks and recreation
- Plum offers quick access to Boyce Park, a major county park with trails and winter activities, and more nearby entertainment and dining.
- Murrysville features community parks, local trails, and a quieter, small‑town atmosphere with more private outdoor space at home.
- Housing types
- Plum has a mix of mid‑century ranches and splits, established neighborhoods, and some townhomes or condos near commercial corridors.
- Murrysville is largely single‑family on larger lots, including newer subdivision homes and custom properties.
- Everyday conveniences
- Plum puts you close to Monroeville’s big‑box retail and restaurants for fast errands and variety.
- Murrysville has smaller commercial nodes and locally owned options, with bigger shopping a short drive away.
- Resale profile
- Plum’s shorter commute options can attract a broad buyer pool.
- Murrysville’s larger lots and custom homes appeal to buyers seeking space and privacy.
Commute and transportation
Plum’s biggest commuting advantage is proximity to Monroeville and the Parkway East corridor. For many east‑side jobs and healthcare centers, door‑to‑door times are often shorter from Plum. If you work in Oakland, Shadyside, or downtown Pittsburgh, the more direct access to I‑376 can be a difference maker.
In Murrysville, you will likely rely on state routes into Monroeville and beyond. The drive can be longer, especially during peak hours near major intersections. Many buyers accept that tradeoff to secure a larger lot and a more rural‑suburban setting.
Transit options exist but are limited in frequency compared with car travel. The Monroeville area functions as a hub for many commuters, and there are park‑and‑ride users from both communities. Most buyers still plan for a car‑first lifestyle.
What to consider:
- Test your commute during real drive times. Check multiple routes at your normal departure and return windows.
- Weigh steady vs. short. A slightly longer but predictable Murrysville route may beat a shorter, stop‑and‑go Plum drive for some.
- Consider proximity to hospitals, the airport connector, and daily errands. Shorter access can pay off in quality of life and resale.
Parks, recreation, and lifestyle
Plum: activity and convenience
If you want year‑round recreation plus quick access to dining and entertainment, Plum makes it easy. Boyce Park, a major Allegheny County asset, offers trails, winter sports, and family‑friendly programming. You are also close to Monroeville’s movie theaters, restaurants, and shopping. This is a strong fit if you like structured activities and want many options within a short drive.
Murrysville: space and small‑town feel
Murrysville leans into green space and community events. You will find community parks with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths. The setting feels more semi‑rural with larger private lots, mature trees, and quieter roads. If you value privacy, gardening, and outdoor living at home, this environment can be a standout.
Housing types and what you will find
Plum: variety and manageable lots
Plum’s neighborhoods span decades of development. You will see mid‑century ranches and split‑levels, traditional two‑stories in established streets, and townhome or condo options closer to commercial areas. Lots are generally manageable for everyday upkeep. For many move‑up buyers, this balance of space, price, and convenience checks a lot of boxes.
When Plum fits best:
- You want a comfortable lot and nearby retail and healthcare.
- You prefer a shorter commute to east‑side job centers.
- You like having multiple housing styles and price tiers to compare.
Murrysville: larger lots and newer builds
Murrysville’s housing is predominantly single‑family with notable newer construction and custom homes from the last couple decades. You will see bigger yards, longer driveways, and properties that favor privacy. Multifamily options are more limited. This is ideal if you want acreage or a newer house and are comfortable with a longer daily drive.
When Murrysville fits best:
- You prioritize lot size, privacy, and outdoor space.
- You want a newer subdivision home or a custom property.
- You value a quieter residential setting over immediate retail access.
Everyday conveniences
- Retail and dining
- Plum: Fast access to Monroeville’s retail and restaurant corridors for groceries, big‑box shopping, and entertainment.
- Murrysville: Local businesses and smaller shopping nodes in town, with larger trips often routed to Monroeville or nearby commercial areas.
- Healthcare and services
- Both communities are within routine driving distance of medical centers and urgent care in the Plum–Monroeville corridor. Proximity can be a plus for daily life and resale.
- Utilities and broadband
- Plum’s denser development often supports strong broadband availability and multiple provider options.
- Murrysville coverage is generally good, but some rural pockets may have limited choices. Always verify service at the specific property address.
- Municipal services
- Trash, recycling, and service providers vary by municipality and neighborhood. Confirm pick‑up schedules, fees, and any HOA guidelines when you tour homes.
Who each area fits
- The daily commuter
- You value time and easy access to major roads and Monroeville. Plum often wins for everyday efficiency.
- The space seeker
- You want a larger lot, room for outdoor living, and quiet streets. Murrysville tends to deliver the yard and privacy you are after.
- The resale planner
- You care about appealing to the widest buyer pool. Homes with shorter commutes and turnkey presentation in Plum often draw broad interest. Well‑maintained, larger‑lot homes in Murrysville attract a focused set of buyers who value space and newer construction.
Resale checklist for move‑up buyers
Use this list while touring and comparing homes:
- Commute draw: How many employers and healthcare centers are within an easy drive from the house?
- Lot size vs. upkeep: Are you comfortable with mowing, landscaping, snow removal, and any long driveway maintenance?
- Broadband and service reliability: Confirm internet speeds and provider options at the exact address.
- Zoning and future development: Check municipal plans for new roads, subdivisions, or commercial projects that could affect traffic and noise.
- Flood and environmental risks: Review floodplain indicators and ask your agent to confirm insurance needs during due diligence.
- HOA or deed rules: Note fees, architectural guidelines, and restrictions that could impact your plans.
- Age and systems: Ask about roof, HVAC, windows, and, if applicable, well or septic. Factor replacement timelines into your budget.
How to compare homes in Plum and Murrysville
- Define your commute window. Test routes at your actual departure times on weekdays.
- Map your weekly routine. List the places you visit most and check drive times from each candidate home.
- Decide how you will use your yard. If privacy and outdoor living are top priorities, weight that heavily in your search.
- Plan for ownership costs. Bigger lots can mean bigger maintenance. Build a realistic annual maintenance budget.
- Work your offer strategy. Homes in both areas sell reliably. Presentation, pricing strategy, and condition make the difference. A strong, clean offer with flexible timing can help you win the right property.
The bottom line
Your ideal match comes down to daily life. If you want shorter drives, major retail close by, and a range of housing options, Plum is a smart pick. If you want space, privacy, and a quieter setting with newer homes in the mix, Murrysville feels just right. Both communities attract steady buyer interest for well‑located, well‑maintained single‑family homes.
Ready to weigh the tradeoffs for your exact situation? Let’s compare live commute tests, specific neighborhoods, and property‑level pros and cons. For tailored guidance and polished, marketing‑first representation, connect with Jen Mascaro. Curious about timing and pricing for your current home? What’s Your Property Worth?
FAQs
What is the main lifestyle difference between Plum and Murrysville?
- Plum favors convenience and shorter drives to Monroeville and the Parkway East, while Murrysville favors larger lots, quieter roads, and a more rural‑suburban feel.
How do commutes to Pittsburgh compare from Plum and Murrysville?
- Plum is typically closer to the Parkway East for faster access, while Murrysville drives are often longer but can feel steadier once you find the best routes.
Are there strong parks and recreation options in both communities?
- Yes, Plum offers quick access to Boyce Park and nearby entertainment, while Murrysville features community parks, trails, and a quieter outdoor lifestyle at home.
What housing types should I expect in each area?
- Plum has a mix of mid‑century homes and some townhomes or condos; Murrysville is mostly single‑family on larger lots with newer subdivisions and custom builds.
Which area tends to have broader resale appeal?
- Homes with shorter commutes in Plum often attract a wider buyer pool, while larger‑lot and newer homes in Murrysville appeal to buyers prioritizing space and privacy.
