Pittsburgh Suburbs: History of Rankin

history of rankin

A Brief History of Rankin

Rankin is a borough in Allegheny County south of the city of Pittsburgh. The borough was named after Thomas Rankin, who was a local landowner. Rankin’s specialization was manufacturing steel and wire goods. The population of Rankin was at its highest in 1940 at nearly 7,500 but it has since shrunk to around 2,100. The Rankin Bridge, a landmark in the area, connects Rankin with Whitaker. It is a steel bridge more officially known as the George Rankin Jr. Memorial Bridge. It was built in 1951. It has a main span length of 505.25 feet and a 75-foot vertical clearance.

Facts about Rankin

History of Rankin

Rankin is bordered by Swissvale, North Braddock, Whitaker, Munhall and Homestead among other neighborhoods. The borough’s population was spread out with the most under the age of 18. Rankin’s median home price was $44,600. The community has a relatively low cost of living. Rankin’s cost of living is measured as 23.7% lower than the country’s average. The average commute time in Rankin is 34 minutes. There are just over 1,000 households in Rankin.

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2 thoughts on “Pittsburgh Suburbs: History of Rankin”

  1. I was raised in Braddock so I am familiar with the bridge!! I remember going to Kennywood on the street car! Anyway thank you for the beautiful bridge!

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