Pittsburgh has one of the highest combined real estate transfer tax rates in Pennsylvania. Unlike Philadelphia where the buyer pays most of the tax, Pittsburgh's 5% total is structured across three separate layers — state, city, and school district — with a more traditional split between buyer and seller.
The 5% applies to the full sale price — on a $400,000 home that's $20,000 in total transfer taxes, roughly $10,000 each for buyer and seller.
Municipalities in Allegheny County outside Pittsburgh typically have lower combined rates (1% state + local varying 1–2%) — always verify the specific municipality.
The school district component can vary if properties straddle different school districts.
Yes — all three layers (state, city, school district) are typically split 50/50 between buyer and seller per Pennsylvania custom, unless the purchase contract specifies otherwise.
Properties in other Allegheny County municipalities have the same 1% state tax but different city/township and school district rates — usually totaling 2–3% combined rather than Pittsburgh's 5%.
Pennsylvania offers exemptions for certain family transfers, low-income buyers in some circumstances, and other situations. Consult a real estate attorney for specifics.
Enter any address — we apply all applicable tax layers automatically.
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