I lived in and around Pittsburgh from 2000-17’ before moving to Northern California (outside of Sacramento) which is one of the most cost effective areas to live in the state. Even so, the cost of buying a similar home as you could in the Burgh metro was easily double. Outside of the cost of real estate and the cost of gas, I’d say the cost of goods (groceries, dining, the list goes on) is on par. That said, the Pittsburgh is very unique and how comparatively cheap it is to buy a home.