The City of Brotherly love is loaded with American history, but there’s so much more to it. As the sixth-most populated city in the U.S., Philadelphia is bustling with locals visiting museums, tasty restaurants, and historic neighborhoods. If you’re on the fence about whether living in Philadelphia is in your future, here’s what you need to know to make your decision.
Cost of Living
In relation to other cities similar in size, Philadelphia’s rent prices are extremely reasonable, with a one-bedroom apartment running around just $1,450, and a two-bedroom around $1,700. When factoring in other expenses, Philadelphia is far cheaper than other major cities.
Commute
Don’t have a car? You’re in luck! Public transportation is widely used throughout the city, and it’s easy to get where you need to go using trains and buses. The Southeast Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) subway runs north to south along Broad Street, which is the main artery in Philadelphia.
- The Market-Frankford Line (Blue) runs from West Philadelphia straight through downtown, ending in the Northeast neighborhoods
- The Broad Street (Orange) Line runs a north-south line directly to AT&T Stadium in South Philly
- The Norristown High-Speed Line (Purple) connects Norristown to Southwest Philly
- The Trolly Line (Green) runs routes from City Hall to Overbrook, Yeadon, and Eastwick
Weather
Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Northern Liberties-Fishtown
Where hipsters unite (and drink beer)
Located slightly northeast of the city center, these neighborhoods are becoming increasingly popular, with much of the city’s younger crowd flocking here. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the exciting restaurant scene, with everything from Venezuelan cuisine, to a German-style beer hall. With the Market-Frankford elevated train line (locally known as the El), running through the heart of these neighborhoods, getting downtown takes only a few minutes. And if nightlife is your thing, there are countless music venues, unique bars, and a retro-chic bowling alley that serves up food and drink. Along with being one of Philly’s most sought-after neighborhoods, it also made the cut as one of the country’s best hipster neighborhoods.
Old City-Downtown
Where history buff meets city slicker
If you’re a history buff, Old City and Downtown are loaded with historical sites. The Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, The Museum of the American Revolution, and the Betsy Ross House are all excellent destinations to visit (although, probably just once). Be on the lookout for guided tours, or spend your afternoon strolling through the beautiful architecture. Check out the Philadelphia Art Museum, Franklin Institute, African American Museum in Philadelphia, and the Free Library of Philadelphia, all of which are in close proximity.
Downtown is packed with endless shopping options, coffee shops, and dining choices, too. Reading Terminal Market, an enclosed public market, is a food lover’s destination, along with Philadelphia’s Chinatown, located close to downtown. You’ll be in the heart of the action, but keep in mind it’ll have its fair share of tourists.
South Philadelphia
Where sports nuts thrive
Although home to the stadiums for the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, and the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center, sports isn’t all South Philly has to offer. Famous for its Italian Market, and cheesesteak rivals Pat’s and Geno’s, South Philly is a bustling and friendly neighborhood loaded with diversity, a sense of community, and, of course, good eats.
West Philadelphia/University City
Where students live, “work”, and play
Drexel University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of the Sciences all call West Philadelphia home. Catering to students, the area offers plenty of shopping and dining options, along with a movie theater, ample parks, and music venues like World Cafe Live.
Bella Vista
Home to those who are Italian at heart (or just love the food)
Bella Vista was the first Philly neighborhood to be settled by Italian immigrants and it’s remained true to its roots. To this day, the neighborhood is known for its Italian restaurants, shops, and, of course, the 9th Street Italian Market– the oldest operating open-air, outdoor market in the country. Around Philly it’s known as “Little Italy”, and that’s exactly what you can expect to find here. It’s home to a museum celebrating famous Philly-born opera singer Mario Lanza, classic Italian restaurants like Angelinas (pro tip: it’s also BYOB), and handmade pasta shops like Superior Pasta Company.
Point Breeze
Where communities come together
Just south of Bella Vista and west of Passyunk Square, Point Breeze is a quaint neighborhood with easy access to downtown. It’s also a diverse area, with residents ranging from folks of African American descent to Hispanic to Asian. There’s a seasonal farmers market on Wednesdays, local beer bars, festivals throughout the year, and plenty of restaurants within walking distance.
Center City
Where the city’s heart beats
Center City is a large neighborhood, encompassing multiple smaller neighborhoods within its borders. Filter Square, Rittenhouse Square, the Gayborhood, Chinatown, and Old City. So it makes sense that it’s where you’ll find the heaviest concentration of the city’s bars, date night restaurants, historical landmarks, and shops.
What to Do in Your First Few Months
When you move to a new city, everything is.. well, new. That’s why the first couple of months are perfect for crossing the slightly-touristy things off your bucket list. It’ll also help you get a feel for the city’s geographical layout and understand how your neighborhood fits into the bigger picture. These are a few things you’ll want to hit up when you first arrive in Philly but keep an eye out for our Neighborhood and City Guides for a more in-depth look at all the things to explore in the City of Brotherly Love.
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