Pittsburgh was originally inhabited by different Native American tribes before the first European settlers arrived in the late 1600’s. Since then, it has welcomed generations of immigrants from all over the world, turning it into a community of diverse cultures that makes it the amazing city that it is. As of 2010, there are over 300,000 people living in Pittsburgh with an estimated 2.3% being of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin.
The Pittsburgh region is composed of 10 counties and the City of Pittsburgh, with each district having its own distinct qualities making them individually and collectively one of the best places to visit, start a business, and live in. In fact, Pittsburgh was ranked as the 7th safest city in the USA by Forbes, 2009. It is even delightfully known as the “Most Livable City” in America – definitely a far cry from the “smoky city” that it was once called. Also worth mentioning is the 2011 Mercer Quality of Life Ranking that has, once again, included Pittsburgh in its list of Top 50 Cities For Quality of Life Around the World.
For the last 25 years, Pittsburgh has thrived on a diverse and vibrant economy having strong points particularly in digital technology, energy solutions, life sciences, financial services and advanced manufacturing. At present, Pittsburgh is well-equipped, better than most of its rival cities, to withstand strong economic blows, as it has proven with its strong comeback from a sour economic dip. President Barrack Obama has even called Pittsburgh as a “model for turning the page to a 21st-century economy.”
Today, Pittsburgh continues to thrive with a successful economic standing— borne of years of industrial experience, a brave innovative approach to industrial evolution, and a strong historical foundation in manufacturing, energy, finance, and business services. Now a city with flourishing businesses, quality and affordable lifestyle, and clean and verdant surroundings, Pittsburgh is the city of the past, present, and the future; a city built to last.
