Philadelphia is a fiercely independent city built on the reputation of rabid sports fans, cheesesteak wars and declaring one’s independence from tax-happy monarchies — but once you’re in, you’re in.
The most popular Philadelphia neighborhoods and nearby cities for renters
Turn on the Rocky soundtrack, brush up on your Ben Franklin trivia and learn about the most popular areas in this city. Then, take our Philadelphia neighborhood quiz to find out which one you should call home.
Center City
Center City is perfect for young professionals and families who aren’t quite ready to settle down or purchase a minivan with a stick figure family on the back windshield. With festivals at Great Plaza and stand-up paddleboarding at Penn’s Landing Marina, no one ever accuses residents of Center City of “not getting out much.”
Living in the center of all the action will cost you about $2,760 for an average one-bedroom apartment.
Queen Village
Why fight your love for shopping? Live close to what you love in Queen Village, a deal seeker’s respite close to downtown Philly. Life in this quaint neighborhood means leisurely biking amongst stately oaks and architectural facades to find Haute fashion on Fabric Row and the perfect IPA at a Headhouse Square pub.
South Philly
In South Philly, you’re either an Eagles fan or … well … you’ll be one soon enough. Home to Citizen’s Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field, the neighborhood is prime real estate for both super fans and families. The area has a decidedly residential feel and folks take pride in the home teams.
An average one-bedroom apartment in South Philadelphia costs about $1,565 a month — leaving plenty left over for those Eagles season tickets (if you can get them).
Old City
There’s nothing old about Old City. As Philly’s millennial population grows, this historical hub offers them more than just avocado toast. Live-work spaces are walking distance to the Farmers Market at Christ Church and the monthly First Friday art exposé, making this the go-to neighborhood for young people looking to keep their lifestyle within arm’s reach.
Old City one-bedroom apartments cost an average of $2,185 a month.
Chinatown
Keep your finger on the pulse of one of the most vibrant cultures in the city when you step through the Chinatown Friendship Gate at 10th and Arch Street. For untamed spirits seeking authentic cultural experiences without buying a plane ticket, Dim Sum at Ocean City Restaurant and performances at Franklin Square make Philly’s Chinatown feel like home.
Graduate Hospital
The medical institution Graduate Hospital was named for may now be defunct, but the neighborhood’s reputation is alive and well. Known for its walkability, Graduate Hospital is a stroller-friendly proving grounds for Philly restaurants and has the perfect vibe for events like The Odunde Festival.
You can rent a one-bedroom apartment in Graduate Hospital for an average of $2,680 a month.
Spruce Hill
If you were West Philadelphia born and raised, Spruce Hill is where you’d spend most of your days. Fresh Prince references aside, the Victorian architecture and proximity to Penn and Drexel University jobs make Spruce Hill a hot neighborhood for teachers, grad students and other young professionals.
Cherry Hill
Your Philly home search just might take you across the Delaware River into New Jersey, a la George Washington (though we recommend taking the Ben Franklin Bridge, not a wooden rowboat). Historic Barclay Farmstead and a progressive city wellness program makes Cherry Hill a great choice for established families and empty-nesters seeking a slower pace.
A one-bedroom apartment in this Jersey community will cost you about $1,700 a month on average.
Find the best Philadelphia neighborhood for you
Still not sure which Philadelphia neighborhood is perfect to call your home? Simply answer a few questions and we’ll tell you!
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