Over 20 Philadelphia Neighborhoods, including a custom Philadelphia Neighborhood Map.
You can see that neighborhoods in this map (see below) are grouped by general region (i.e. Northwest Philly Neighborhoods in Red, Northeast in Purple, etc).
Within these broader regions, are more specific neighborhoods. In this article, we will cover virtually all the popular neighborhoods.ย Show you pricing, similarities, and differences.
Philadelphia Neighborhood Map
Additionally, check out the summary chart below.
How did we compare neighborhoods?
We compared neighborhoods on a variety of factors including cost of living (rent), cost of parking, greenery, restaurant and shopping scene and proximity to major parks.
All rent data comes from Co-Star the leading real-estate expert tool (as updated from time to time). Greenery leverages tree canopy coverage (benchmark from USDA forest Service) and uses a study from City of Philadelphia and University of Vermont Spatial Analysis Lab. Check out the chart below.
What are top, most affordable neighborhoods?
The top most desirable and affordable neighborhoods tend to be in the Northeast (Bustleton, Somerton, Fox Chase, etc.).
After this, a little more expensive but still lower pricing includes neighborhoods such as Brewerytown and East Falls.
A little more expensive yet still affordable neighborhoods include Roxborough, Manayunk Chestnut Hill, Wynnefield.
What are top shopping and restaurant scenes?
The top shopping and restaurant scene include neighborhoods in the core of Center City (Washington Square, Rittenhouse Square, Old City, Society Hill).
Other neighborhoods in Philly have amazing restaurant and shopping scenes including University City, Manayunk, and Chestnuthill.
Use the comparison chart above.
Ready?
Read on…
The Neighborhoods
Northwest Philadelphia
Chestnut Hill
Smallbones / Public domain
Known as the Garden District of the City, Chestnut Hill is sprinkled with massive parks, beautiful gardens, and lush greenery. Chestnut Hill is most famous for its iconic, quaint historical walkable Main Street on Germantown Avenue filled with great shopping, eateries, and historic sites. Around the border of its Main Street are historic tree-lined houses. Whether living here or visiting, its hard not to fall in love with this quaint locale.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,460ย |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,950
- Affordability Parking: $30 to $150 per month
- Walk Score: 64
- Greenery Coverage: Very High
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Chestnut Hill East Line and Chestnut Hill West Line
- Some Top Restaurants: McNally’s Tavern, Top of the Hill Cafe, CinCin Restaurant, Cake, Chestnut Grill and Sidewall Cafe
Highlights: Walkability of Germantown Avenue, quaint architecture, and downtown Chestnut Hill, as well as proximity to Wissahickon Park.
Manayunk
Manayunk is a former historic mill town located directly on the Schuylkill River with hilly inclines that craft a scenic backdrop. Offering plenty of places to grab a bite or drink, the streets are lined with 60+ local businesses from independent boutiques through to art galleries. Homes include picturesque smaller attached row homes, Victorian architecture, and walk-up units. Residents enjoy one of the best walkable main streets in the region, easy access to Center City, great food scene, dog-friendly area, and easy access to near-by parks including Manayunk Tow Path, Manayunk Bridge Trail, Cynwyd Heritage Trail, and Wissahickon Park.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,600 |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,130
- Affordability Parking: $60 to $150 per month
- Walk Score: 81
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: The Goat’s Beard, SOMO Manayunk, Zesty’s, The Couch Tomato, Lucky’s Last Chance
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Manayunk station on the Manayunk/Norristown line
Highlights: Walkability of historic Main Street, access to parks (Wissahickon Park, Manayunk Tow Path, Manayunk Bridge Trail, Cynwyd Heritage Trail), easy access to both Main Line Suburbs and City, urban-suburban charm, entertainment, frequent community events, very pet-friendly.
While we may be biased, if you are looking for Manayunk Apartments For Rent, check out The Roe at Manayunk, our newest flagship apartment building in the area, just 1 block away from the Manayunk Train Station. This building is also managed by us (Fidelity Management).
East Falls
East Falls is also probably the closest Northwest Philly Neighborhood to Center City. Residents enjoy the close proximity to Center City, bike-friendly nature of Kelly Drive (you can literally bike from Kelly Drive to Center City), you are also very close to the Main Streets of Manayunk and Chestnut Hill, plus there are a growing bunch of local restaurants, shops and businesses in East Falls. It also has its own train station (East Falls) for those commuting to Center City. There is a mix of housing from historic mansions to affordable row homes. It also houses Drexel University College of Medicine and Thomas Jefferson University, along with an array of bars, restaurants, and shops.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,510 |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,700
- Affordability Parking: $35 to $100 per month
- Walk Score: 74
- Greenery Coverage: High
- Some Top Restaurants: In Riva, LeBus East Falls, Trolley Car Cafe, Fiorino’s
- Closest SEPTA train stop: East Falls on the Manayunk-Norristown line
Highlights: Proximity to near-by colleges, proximity to other parts of Northwest Philly and Center City, access to Schuylkill River for running, walking and biking.
Roxborough
Directly bordering Manayunk, is Roxborough, which is just 10 miles away from Center City. With one of the greenest areas in the city including Manatawna Farms, Upper Roxborough Reservoir Preserve, and 340 acres of The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Andorra Meadows, and Gorgas Park. It also has easy access to all the restaurants and shops in Manayunk. Depending on where you live in Roxborough, you can be within walking distance (albeit likely a 20 minute plus walk) to Manayunk’s Main Street which makes it a popular residential choice.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,330ย |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,560
- Affordability Parking: generally included in rent but limited parking may exist, especially in some of the older buildings
- Walk Score: 61
- Greenery Coverage: Very High
- Some Top restaurants: Taylor’s Cafe, Roma Pizza, Barry’s Steaks and Hoagies, Tavern on Ridge.
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Wissahickon Station and Ivy Ridge Station on the Manayunk/Norristown line
Highlights: Green space and parks, access to Wissahickon Park, access to downtown Manayunk, its own restaurant scene in Roxborough, and yards.
Far Northeast Philadelphia
Bustleton
Looking for open space, easy access to Center City, and affordability? When trying to figure out where to live, Bustleton is a great mix of urban meets suburban, filled with sprawling shopping centers while also being the greenest neighborhood in Northeast Philly fringing the 1600-acre Pennypack Park. Residents enjoy easy access to Center City, amazing mix of locally owned diverse restaurants, affordability (129% cheaper than the core of Center City), ease and affordability of parking, open space, diverse restaurant scene, organized children’s sports and lots of playgrounds. Bustleton was ranked among top hottest affordable neighborhoods in the entire United States of America by Redfin.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1090ย |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,281
- Affordability Parking: Generally, no additional costs to your rent, some apartments charge around $25 per month but they are the exception
- Walk Score: 50
- Greenery Coverage: High
- Some Top Restaurants: Macaroni’s, Cafe Light, Judah Mediterranean, Suzani, and these top rated restaurants
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Philmont Station and Bethayres station on the West Trenton Line
Highlights: Affordability (one of the hottest most affordable places to live in the country), urban meet suburban blend, drive-ability to shopping centers, greenery, diverse international restaurant scene, organized children’s sports, and access to Center City.
Somerton
Sitting adjacent to Bustleton, Somerton also gives residents a good urban-suburban mix. Somerton has a quiet feel with a good mix of parks, cafes, and eateries. Residents enjoy easy access to Bucks County, Poquessing Valley Park and Griffin Playground. You will not find as many small corner stores as in Bustleton and most people commute by car. There are, however, shops and restaurants in nearby Roosevelt and Neshaminy Malls as well as shopping centers.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1065 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,275
- Affordability Parking: Generally, no additional costs to your rent, some apartments charge around $25 per month but they are the exception
- Walk Score: 47
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Georgian Bakery and Cafe, Uzbekistan Restaurant, Cafe Michelangelo, Stoli’s Steaks.
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Somerton station on the West Trenton Line
Highlights: Access to Center City, Affordability, access to lots of shopping centers, urban meets suburban blend, proximity to near-by suburbs.
Fox Chase
Situated in Northeast Philly. It may be a good choice for those looking for a rural lifestyle without being too far from Center City. The area has a working 112-acre Fox Chase Farm (which has events throughout the year), Burholme Park (85 acre park with wooded areas, Burholme Family Fun Center, including the historical Ryers Museum), and also a small central commercial corridor near its train station (Fox Chase Station). The Fox Chase train station takes you down to Center City quickly and even offers express routes. There are a good mix of quaint historical houses with green space and open land.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1010 |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,208
- Affordability Parking: Generally, no additional costs to your rent, some apartments charge around $25 per month but they are the exception
- Walk Score: 68
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Northeast Sandwich Co, Moonstruck.
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Fox Chase Station on the Fox Chase Regional Line
Highlights: Access to Fox Chase farm, Pennypack Park, retail corridor in Fox Chase near Fox Chase Train Station.
South Philadelphia
Bella Vista
Bella Vista was the first home to Italian immigrants in Philly. It now houses a large residential pocket of homes, condos and apartments catering to a multi-cultural population. It is a short walk away from the core of Center City and Old City, yet in a quieter residential area. Today, it houses the historical Italian Market which is the nation’s oldest outdoor market that is home to over 200 businesses including coffee houses, meat stores, and fresh fruit and produce. You can see a mixture of street side vendors and restaurants and boutique grocery stores in between.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,760 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,420
- Affordability Parking: $250 to $350 per month
- Walk Score: 96
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Bistro La Minette, Olly, El Rancho Viejo, Angelina’s, Gnocchi
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson Station on the SEPTA Regional Rail, or Broad Street Line (North and South only)
Highlights: Large residential pockets, Italian Market home to over 200 businesses, green space.
East Passyunk
You may be familiar with East Passyunk and not even know it as it is home to the world famous Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteak establishments. East Passyunk is a pedestrian-friendly area, and it is based off the diagonal street of East Passyunk Avenue that is dotted with bars, unique boutique stores, coffee shops, and new award-winning restaurants. It even made the top 10 Best Foodie Streets in America from Food and Wine. It is also near by to the Italian Market in Bella Vista, as well as Capitolo Playground and Columbus Square. It is certainly a quieter, residential area compared to other parts of the city and is a rapidly emerging food scene.
- Affordability Rental: limited number of apartment buildings to present data, some new buildings under construction
- Affordability Parking: limited buildings that have on-site parking
- Walk Score: 92
- Greenery Coverage: Very Low
- Some Top Restaurants: Musi, Ristorante Pesto, Roccos Italian, Los Gallos
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson Station on the SEPTA Regional Rail, or Broad Street Line (North and South only)
Highlights: Home to famous cheesesteak establishments, unique cultural new bar and restaurant scene, quieter residential area.
Graduate Hospital
Directly West of Bella Vista (or as the locals would say, on the other side of Broad Street lies Graduate Hospital.ย Graduate Hospital is predominantly a residential area with mostly single-family townhome walk ups (some with garages and some without). It is also dotted with pedestrian-friendly paths, bars, shops, cafes, restaurants and handmade art stores giving it a vibrant sense of energy that out-of-towners and locals alike have come to love. Residents enjoy the quiet area which has its own set of restaurants and cafes, yet easy access to the Rittenhouse Square and the core of Center City. Homes in this area have become increasingly expensive.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,820ย | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,260
- Affordability Parking: $250 to $300 per month
- Walk Score: 90
- Greenery Coverage: Low
- Some Top Restaurants: Los Camaradas, Kei Sushi, On Point Bistro
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Suburban Station or Lombard-South stop on the Broad Street Line (North and South Only)
Highlights: Quieter residential area, lots of townhomes, pedestrian quiet family friendly area.
Center City
Washington Square West
If you are looking to live in the heart of Center City, Washington Square West is built around the heart of Washington Square Park (one of the original large green squares). Geographically. Washington Square West sits in between Old City and the core of Center City, is a quiet area of the city, and also home to much of Penn Hospital and Jefferson Hospital Systems. Residents enjoy its quiet location and walking distance to Old City, Rittenhouse, and virtually every other part of the city. The area is filled with plenty of open spaces for singles, families and couples to enjoy.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,398ย | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 3,500
- Affordability Parking: $250 to $325
- Walk Score: 99
- Greenery Coverage: Very Low
- Some Top Restaurants: Talula’s Garden, Tria Cafe Wash West, Mercato, Little Nonna’s
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson Station
Highlights: Washington Square Park, walking distance to Old City and core of Center City, and walking distance to lots of green space.
Society Hill
East of Washington Square, and recognized as one of the most desirable residential pockets in Philly, Society Hill is a largely residential community with a mix of historic attractions, shops, restaurants, and historic walk-up homes. The area is landscaped with beautiful greenery, cobblestone alleyways, and the famous Headhouse Square.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $2,160 |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $2,825
- Affordability Parking: $290 to $325
- Walk Score: 97
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Zahav, Spasso, High Street on Market, Pizzeria Stella
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson Station
Highlights: Quieter residential area, quaint cobble stone streets, famous Headhouse Square, and lot of character and charm.
Chinatown
A major hub for the City and region’s Asian-American population and beyond this neighborhood is vibrant and bright, originally inhabited by Cantonese immigrants in the 19th century. There’s never a dearth of sensational food options combined with an abundance of action bringing the streets to life. It is also very close to the Convention Center.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,880 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $2,249
- Affordability Parking: $100 to $300
- Walk Score: 99
- Greenery Coverage: Very low
- Some Top Restaurants: EMei Restaurant, Tom’s Dim Sum, Tim Wong, Dim Sum Garden
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson station
Highlights: Close proximity to convention Center and Core of Center City, great eateries, and easy access to highways.
Old City
Aptly named Old City, this is Philly’s historic district. If you are looking for historical vibe, this is it. America’s independence was declared at Old City and here you can find historic sites like the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin Court (Benjamin Franklin’s original home), and more. Rich in history and home to an abundance of Colonial-era sites, Old City oozes charm with its cobblestone streets, independently owned shops, and art scene. It is a great mix of both preserved history, open green pocket parks, and tucked away quaint residential streets, including the famous Elfreth’s Alley.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1930 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $2,550
- Affordability Parking: $275 to $375 with few buildings offering on-site parking
- Walk Score: 97
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Radicchio Cafe, Continental Restaurant, Buddakan, The Olde Bar
- Closest SEPTA train stop: No real close by regional line. There are stops on 5th and 2nd streets along Market on the Market-Frankford line (limited places this line goes either out to Frankford Transportation Center in Near Northeast, or out to West Philadelphia).
Highlights: The heart of all the history, cobblestone streets, access to historical sites, access to open space and parks, and proximity to highways.
Rittenhouse Square
Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square is a popular and upscale neighborhood in the city. The green large square is surrounded by mostly residential buildings and the park is bisected by walking paths, benches, and art. From an array of alfresco dining venues, theaters, galleries, and the central upscale shopping district, to popular bars and restaurants, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant square. Apartments and homes around Rittenhouse Square are some of the most expensive in the entire City.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2033| 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,980
- Affordability Parking: $325 to $500 per month
- Greenery Coverage: Low
- Walk Score: 98
- Some Top Restaurants: Lacroix, Tria Cafe, Vernick, Barclay Prime, Parc
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Suburban Station and 30th Street Station (Amtrak)
Highlights: Rittenhouse Square, Rittenhouse Square Farmers Market, proximity to one of the main shopping and restaurant districts in the entire City.
Fitler Square
Directly adjacent to Rittenhouse Square (West of it) is Fitler Square. Fitler square is a very quiet, beautiful historic neighborhood in Center City. The area might be one of the most residential districts in the entire city. Here you will find mostly historic row homes, many of which feature private patio and garden areas. This area also has several great restaurants and eateries scattered throughout.
Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,911 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,726
Affordability Parking: $200 to $280
Greenery Coverage: Low
Walk Score: 98
Some Top Restaurants: Ambrosia Ristorante, Trattoria Carina, Pub & Kitchen, Cotoletta
Closest SEPTA train stop: 30th Street Station, and very close to Suburban Station.
Highlights: Fitler Square Park (.5 acre park), access to Schuylkill River Trail and Schuylkill River Park, quiet tree-lined street neighborhoods, great restaurants.
Fishtown / Northern Liberties
Northern Liberties
Located about 1 mile north of Old City, this former industrial and manufacturing neighborhood, became home to a wave of new development from the early 2000s to 2009, and had quickly emerged as one of the fastest growing areas in the City. Today, the area enjoys a strong mix of both residential single-family as well as apartments. There are also several restaurants on Spring Garden, Girard Avenue, and North 2nd Street. While it is difficult to walk to Center City, residents can take the train into Center City or hop in a car sharing service.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,970 |ย 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,480
- Affordability Parking: $150 to $325
- Greenery Coverage: Very low
- Some Top Restaurants: Bistro, Sorriso, Jaxon, Bourbon and Branch, Hello Vietnam
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Spring Garden Station or Girard Station on the Market-Frankford Line (this line will take you into Center City, depending on where in Center City you need to go, you may still need to walk a bit)
Highlights: Newer construction area, lots of new restaurant brands emerging, and proximity to Center City.
Fishtown
North of Northern Liberties, lies Fishtown which is one of the older neighborhoods in the city but has recently experienced lots of new construction and brimming with art, music, and culinary action. Its streets are studded with row homes, art galleries, and home to a growing list of award-winning restaurants, independent businesses, breweries, and has a central corridor on Frankford Avenue making it an exciting area for newcomers and long-time residents.
- Rental Affordability : 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,539 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $2,060
- Affordability Parking: less apartment buildings than Northern Liberties, and limited parking options for those that exist, but expect to pay $125+ month to $200+
- Walk Score: 91
- Greenery Coverage: Very low
- Some Top Restaurants: Cheu Fishtown, Wm. Mulherin Sons, Frankford Hall, Stock Restaurant
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Girard Station on the Market-Frankford Line (this line will take you into center City). Also, a light rail trolley option to go West bound.
Highlights: Newer construction options, central corridor on Frankford Avenue, and emerging restaurant scene.
Callowhill
Callowhill / Loft District
This area has seen rapid expansion in the past 10 years and continues to evolve. To the north of Vine and South of Spring Garden, lies Callowhill. There are a myriad of older buildings converted into residential, commercial, office, and art spaces. Many breweries can be found in this area. The first part of the ‘Rail Park’ project was completed (1/4 mile stretch) which will eventually expand into a 3 mile elevated park.
- Rental Affordability : 1-bedroom unit average rent: $1,895 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $2,031
- Affordability Parking:ย $175 to $300
- Walk Score: 92
- Greenery Coverage: Very low
- Some Top Restaurants: Cafe Lift, Cafe Gabi, Prohibition Taproom, El Purepecha
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Jefferson and Suburban Station (both very close)
Highlights: Rail Park (part 1 completed), breweries, proximity to Center City
Near Northwest Philadelphia / Fairmount Area
Fairmount
Fairmount is home to some of the best museums in the world, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rodin Museum, Barnes Foundation and is well-known for its art scene. Nestled to the northwest of Center City, the residential area is mostly north of Spring Garden Street, in a quieter area, yet within walking distance to several museums including art museums and Franklin Institute, Fairmount Park (one of Philly’s largest Park systems), the Philly’s newest Whole Foods, and bustling eateries. It’s lively feel and pedestrian-friendly paths make it a popular residential choice for singles and families.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,000ย | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,600
- Affordability Parking: $100 to $250
- Walk Score: 90
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Pizzeria Vetri, A Mano, Sabrina’s Cafe, Umai
- Closest SEPTA train stop: 30th street station is also close by as well as Suburban Station. Fairmount Station on the Broad Street Line (North and South Only)
Highlights: Access to the art museum and cultural areas, close proximity to Schuylkill River Trail and I-76
Brewerytown
Back in the day, Brewerytown was home to, you guessed it, over 20 breweries. Many of these old breweries have now been converted into new developments like apartments and condos, bringing a new vibe to this former brewery headquarters. Over the past 5 to 7 years, a surge of new multi-family apartments has risen here and scattered in between remain the original single-family residential housing stock. Residents enjoy the close proximity to Fairmount Park, West Philadelphia, Fairmount, and also not too far away from Center City, and still much more affordable than Center City.
- Rental Affordability : 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,576 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $1,930
- Affordability Parking: Ranges from one spot included to second spot $200, to $75 to $200
- Walk Score: 81
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Hops Brewerytown, iMuch Cafe, Irie
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Trolley Line (East and West) on Girard Avenue
Highlights: Affordability relative to Center City and Fairmount, plethora of new construction mid-rise apartments. Keep in mind most buildings in these areas do not have balconies.
West Philadelphia
University City
University City, in West Philadelphia, houses two of the largest universities in the city Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania. The area (also known as UCity) has rapidly emerged around not just around the academic institutions, but a range of new healthcare and biotechnology companies. There are tons of new restaurants, shopping, cafes, and entertainment. It is easy to reach across the South Street Bridge.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,000 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 2,600
- Affordability Parking: $225 to $350 per month is the norm, with some buildings offering less around $100
- Walk Score: 88
- Greenery Coverage: Medium
- Some Top Restaurants: Cucina Zapata, White Dog Cae, Koreana @ University City, Vientiane Cafe
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Penn Medicine Station (formerly University City Station) served by Airport Line, Warminster Line, West Trenton and others, and 30th street station, and some Trolley routes.
Highlights: Proximity to Drexel and Penn, huge network of healthcare, and great restaurant scene.
Wynnefield
Located in West Philly, Wynnefield is one of the greenest neighborhoods in the city of Philadelphia due its green tree canopy ratio.
- Affordability Rental: 1-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,386 | 2-bedroom unit average rent: $ 1,700
- Affordability Parking: $10 to $85 per month
- Greenery Coverage: High
- Walk Score: 72
- Some Top Restaurants: Larry’s Steaks, Sweet Treat Hut,
- Closest SEPTA train stop: Wynnefield Avenue Station on the Cynwyd Line Regional Rail line
ย Highlights: Lots of green space, proximity to near by suburbs, good mix of urban meets suburban.
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of various neighborhoods in Philly based on affordability, greenery, walkability, public transit, and more. Now you will be better prepared to begin your search and figure out where you want to live.
Here is quick video summary of this post.
General Regions of Philly
The map below shows the main general regions of Philadelphia — of which each comprises multiple neighborhoods. These aren’t official terms per say, but most locals identify with these areas.
Inside each region lives multiple Philadelphia neighborhoods.
Northwest Philadelphiaย
Northwest Philly is known for being among the greenest areas in the city and is made up of several quaint communities that form the periphery around Wissahickon Park.
Far Northeast Philadelphia
Residents here enjoy easy access to Center City (at a fraction of the price of Center City living), lots of green spaces (Pennypack Park), organized sports for children, a diverse international restaurant scene. Some of the hottest affordable neighborhoods are in the Far Northeast Philadelphia.
South Philadelphia
South Philly is a large area consisting of Bella Vista, Queen Village, East Passyunk, and more. South Philly is more of a residential area compared to Center City with a mix of townhomes, rowhouses, historic trinities, and most recently some apartment buildings.
Center City
Center City is the center of downtown Philadelphia and is comprised of Old City, Washington Square, Rittenhouse, and Society Hill to name a few. Each of these areas brings something a little different, but principally this area is home to the largest restaurant, shopping, and employment areas. It is also generally the most expensive to live in the City.
Fishtown / Northern Liberties
Fishtown and Northern Liberties is an area immediately Northeast of Old City/Center City and is one of the rapidly growing neighborhoods in the City. While you cannot generally walk from these areas to the core of Center City, there is the Market-Frankford line (elevated rail line).
Callowhill
Callowhill is also dubbed the Loft District for a large number of artist lofts and former warehouses that have been converted into office and residential space.
Near Northwest / Fairmount
Around the famous Philadelphia Art Museum, Rodin Museum, and newly built Whole Foods, is a residential area known as Fairmount. Residents enjoy easy access to the cultural centers of the Art Museum, Rodin Museum, Franklin Institute, Schuylkill Trail.
University City / West Philly
On the other side of the river, lies University City, home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, as well as a growing biotech and medical scene. There is also Wynnefield not far from there.
Because neighborhood boundaries are fluid, neighborhood names or boundaries are not always agreed upon. Generally, this guide aligns well with the City of Philadelphia’s neighborhood boundaries.
Although there are of course other neighborhoods this guide does not cover, this is one of the most comprehensive Philadelphia neighborhood resources.
Important Considerations
Here are some considerations as you think through which Philadelphia neighborhood to live in:
Commute to Work
How long does it take to get to work? Do you want to be near a train?
Walkability
How walkable is the community? Are there enough outdoor areas (small parks, large parks) for you and your family to enjoy?
What is your budget?
How much you can afford? Some of the most affordable Philly neighborhoods for families in Philadelphia are in the Far Northeast.
Lifestyle
What kind of lifestyle do you want? Are you looking for quiet, green spaces or more bustling precincts with plenty of action?
Crime Rate
Although this article doesn’t list Crime Rate Data Specifics by neighborhood, and although no neighborhood is void of crime, crime can be measured and quantified historically. You should be familiar with the general crime rates in each neighborhood.
For example, as of the date this article was first written and looking back 30 days, Northern Liberties/Fishtown had 43% more property crime than Center City (looking back 30 days of the date this article was first written). You can look into specifics here that the Inquirer Publishes results from the last 30 days.
Keep Reading for Specific Neighborhood Detail…
* Neighborhood boundaries are approximate and should not be used to determine official neighborhood boundaries, school boundaries, or other legal boundaries. Prices are estimates based on certain size buildings. Neighborhood boundaries are approximate. Keep in mind these are just averages. There are some buildings considerably more expensive and others that can be considerably less expensive.
**Notes on table: Greenery Coverage Defined By Greenest Neighborhoods in Philly based on Tree Canopy Assessment 2018 Report, Rent Data From CoStar Analytics, Parking Data (Based on Average Parking Available), Restaurant/Shopping Scene Estimated, Proximity to 3 Major Parks Refer to Philadelphia’s 3 largest park systems – Fairmount Park, Wissahickon Park, and Pennypack Park. See Report for Full Specifics.
Last Updated: November 6, 2023 general update, prices January 2022
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