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Situated in southeast Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has a vibrant history, multiple rivers, and rich culture. The city also has a lot of neighborhoods, and it can be tricky figuring out which one you want to call home. To help you figure out what area in the City of Brotherly Love is right for you, check out this list of Philadelphia neighborhoods.

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Bella Vista

Overview

Italian for "beautiful sight", Bella Vista lives up to its name with tree-lined streets and historic charm. The neighborhood was first settled by Italian immigrants, and you can catch a glimpse of this history in the cafes and bakeries that line the streets. Bella Vista is home to the nation's oldest outdoor curb market, the 9th Street Italian Market. While the market started out with mostly Italian vendors, you can now find many Latino and Asian vendors as well. Along with these lively dining districts, Bella Vista has quiet residential streets that provide a sense of calm within the city.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,400

2-bedroom: $1,800

3-bedroom: $2,300

Notable attractions

• South 9th Street Italian Market Festival: Two-day festival with music, food, and contests
• Isgro Pastries: Cannoli, Easter bread, cookies, and more
• Philadelphia's Magic Gardens: Funky art gallery is filled with sculptures and mosaics  and bordering the South Street neighborhood

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Brewerytown

Overview

Currently gentrifying, Brewerytown combines a laid-back and community-oriented feel with a surge of energy from new business and buildings. Girard Avenue is the center of the business district in Brewerytown and home to restaurants, bars, and small shops. However, the name Brewerytown comes from a history of breweries in the area, so don't expect endless beer choices. The rest of the neighborhood is largely residential and has both row homes housing residents who grew up here as well as recently-constructed apartment complexes that are filled with new arrivals.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,100

2-bedroom: $1,550

3-bedroom: $1,900

Notable attractions

• Crime and Punishment Brewing Co.: Brewery with Russian-inspired grub
• Rybrew: Specialty sandwiches and bottle shop

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Callowhill

Overview

Located just north of Centre City, Callowhill is a former industrial area that's evolved into a neighborhood with high-rise apartment complexes, multiple live music venues, and art spaces. While the area still feels a bit grungy and there's not much green space, restaurants and bars continue to move in. Due to the number of renovated factory buildings, Callowhill is also known as the Loft District. It's also considered one of the most eclectic neighborhoods in Philadelphia, but locals aren't sure how long that vibe will last as new people move in.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,500

2-bedroom: $1,750

3-bedroom: $2,000

Notable attractions

• The Rail Park: Park along an old rail line; Philly's version of the high line
• Union Transfer: Venue hosting up and coming musicians, comedians, artists, and more
• Underground Arts: Live music venue and bar
• Love City Brewing: Brewery and food trucks in an old rail-parts factory

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Center City

‍Overview

Center City is the downtown area of Philadelphia filled with commercial buildings, restaurants, bars, museums, hospitals, and more. Yes, people live here, but there's also plenty of tourists enjoying the sites and workers out on lunch break. While Chinatown, Center City East, Washington Square West, Logan Square, and Midtown Village are sometimes considered their own neighborhoods, they are often lumped in as part of Center City. Parking is difficult to find here, but public transit runs to most other parts of the city. And as you might expect, it's easy to walk around the neighborhood.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,600

2-bedroom: $2,150

3-bedroom: $3,400

Notable attractions

• Reading Terminal Market: Indoor market with produce, Amish goods, made-to-order food, and meats
• Lantern Theater Company: Cozy theater hosting plays by a local company
• Philadelphia City Hall: Beautiful building topped with Pennsylvania's founder William Penn

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Chestnut Hill

‍Overview

Filled with tall trees, large mansions, and picturesque sidewalks, Chestnut Hill is a suburban neighborhood in Northwest Philadelphia with a summer home vibe and the nickname "The Garden District." The area is filled with historic houses, including Victorian homes and brick rowhomes, as well as new condos and apartment complexes. Germantown Avenue is lined with boutiques, restaurants with summer patios, and cute coffee shops which lead to a small-town vibe. Although it takes about 20-30 to drive into Center City, there are also multiple train stops in the neighborhood.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,200

2-bedroom: $1,500

3-bedroom: $2,300

Notable attractions

• Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania: gardens, sculptures, and fields
• McNally's Tavern: casual restaurant famous for the Schmitter sandwich

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East Falls

Overview

East Falls is a largely residential neighborhood that borders the Schuylkill River. The area is covered with mature trees and includes a mix of row homes in the South and single-family homes on large lots in the North. While East Falls is a bit outside of Center City, you can take a train into the city or ride your bike along the picturesque Schuylkill River Trail. There are a few restaurants and shops in the neighborhood, but the real charm of the neighborhood is the green space and easy access to Wissahickon Valley Park.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,250

2-bedroom: $1,300

3-bedroom: $1,800

Notable attractions

• Wissahickon Brewing Company: Beers, food trucks, and fun events
• Dance on the Falls Bridge: Annual free family-friendly dance under the twin bridges

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East Passyunk Crossing/Passyunk Square

Overview

These adjoining neighborhoods center around the commercial East Passyunk Street. While there are a number of boutiques and funky bars here, the highlight is the abundance of restaurants. You can find the dueling cheesesteak joints Geno's and Pat's, but also food from around the world. Many up and coming chefs are opening up on East Passyunk, and you can now grab dim sum, meat pies, and poke bowls. Despite the top-notch food scene, the neighborhoods are relatively quiet and are largely made up of older rowhomes and trinity houses (homes with one room per floor).

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,350

2-bedroom: $1,650

3-bedroom: $2,100

Notable attractions

• East Passyunk Car Show and Street Festival: Cars, food, live music, and bouncy castles
• Perla: Filipino cuisine in a cozy BYOB building
• Essen Bakery: Jewish bakery with excellent challah and whitefish

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Fairmount

Overview

Largely residential, Fairmount is a mix of townhomes, condos, rowhomes, and mansions. A highlight of the neighborhood is Fairmount Park, which is located on the western edge of the neighborhood and provides opportunities to exercise or enjoy a meal overlooking the Schuylkill River. Despite its mostly quiet streets, Fairmount offers tons of quality dining options as well as museums. This mix of amenities and a relaxed vibe attracts young families, older couples, and young professionals alike. One drawback is that while plenty of bus lines run through the neighborhood, there aren't any train stations.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,300

2-bedroom: $1,750

3-bedroom: $2,500

Notable attractions

• Philadelphia Musem of Art: Art and the famous Rocky steps
• Eastern State Penitentiary: Closed prison that once housed infamous inmates
• Zorba's Tavern: Affordable and delicious Greek restaurant

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Far Northeast: Parkwood, Somerton, and Torresdale

Overview

The northeastern section of Philadelphia is made up of neighborhoods including Parkwood, Somerton, and Torresdale. Many spots in this section of Philadelphia are less walkable than other parts of the city, and there are fewer centralized commercial districts. While some parts have access to public transportation, many don't, so a car is helpful for getting around the city. Most of the neighborhoods are quiet and have a suburban-like feel with an abundance of strip malls. There isn't a whole lot going on at night, and many working-class families live here with their children.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,000

2-bedroom: $1,250

3-bedroom: $1,450

Notable attractions

• Pennypack Park: 1,600 acres with trails, woodlands, and a working farm
• Grey Lodge: Cozy restaurant with beers and pub food

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Fitler Square

‍Overview

Situated on the banks of the Schuylkill River, Fitler Square is elegant and posh with tree-lined streets, beautiful buildings, and great dining. Despite its higher real estate costs, the area maintains a laid-back vibe. Due to its location between University City and Center City, Fitler Square attracts both students, professors, and professionals working in offices. The neighborhood also provides easy access to the Schuylkill River Trail as well as green space in Schuylkill River Park. Most of the housing is single-family rowhomes or houses broken into apartments.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,400

2-bedroom: $2,250

3-bedroom: $3,000

Notable attractions

• Fitler Square Farmers' Market: Saturday morning market offering produce and other local goods
• Schuylkill River Park: Dog park, community garden, and walking trails with river views

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Francisville

Overview

Located in North Philly just above Center City, Francisville is a small up and coming neighborhood. While the area used to be filled with small, single-family homes, these now mingle with apartments in new buildings and renovated older homes. There's a lot of construction happening, and the neighborhood varies block by block. Although there aren't a ton of businesses in the neighborhood now, it's easy to travel to more lively sections of Fairmount and Center City. Compared to other neighborhoods with similar proximity to Center City, you can rent more space for a similar price.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,350

2-bedroom: $1,800

3-bedroom: $2,200

Notable attractions

• The Met Philadelphia: 1908 venue hosting musicians, comedians, and more
• Thirsty Dice: Casual hangout with beer, milkshakes, pizza, and snacks

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Fishtown

Overview

In the last 5-10 years, Fishtown has become one of the hottest neighborhoods for young professionals, due to the opening of beer halls, art studios, cafes, yoga studios, and more. As a younger generation flocks to the area, older residents are moving away. Fishtown is situated on the banks of the Delaware River, and the El (subway) provides easy access to Center City. There's still a bit of an underground feel, but Fishtown is much more discovered and mainstream than it was five years ago, and it's continually becoming more mainstream with the construction of modern housing and opening of businesses.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,500

2-bedroom: $2,000

3-bedroom: $2,300

Notable attractions

• Barcade: Old school arcade games and craft beers
• Penn Treaty Park: Perfect place to run or picnic along the Delaware River
• Johnny Brenda's: Indie music venue with drinks and casual food

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Germantown

Overview

Germantown is known for its rich historic buildings and cobblestone Germantown Avenue, but the area is getting a dose of newness as businesses open and contractors renovate homes. Still, the neighborhood's historic district provides insight into events such as the first US protest against slavery and the Battle of Germantown during the Revolutionary War. The neighborhood is also filled with single-single family homes on tree-filled lots, and residents have easy access to nearby Wissahickon Park. There is a rail station nearby, but a train only comes about every hour. Therefore, lots of residents rely on cars.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,200

2-bedroom: $1,450

3-bedroom: $1,700

Notable attractions

• The Colored Girl Museum: Telling the story of colored girls through ordinary objects
• Uncle Bobbie's Coffee and Books: Welcoming shop hosting readings and other events

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Graduate Hospital

Overview

Graduate Hospital is known for its family-friendly dwellings, walkable streets, and a small number of vibrant businesses — not a hospital. The quiet and friendly streets provide a sense of calm, and the top-notch bars and restaurants on South Street appeal to both families with children and singles alike. Parking can be a bit challenging to find in Graduate Hospital, but it's easy to walk around the neighborhood and take public transit to other areas of the city. Housing is largely in row homes, many of which are renovated older buildings.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,400

2-bedroom: $1,900

3-bedroom: $2,700

Notable attractions

• Odunde Festival: African and African-American street festival with food and entertainment
• Balkan Express: a taste of Eastern Europe served by friendly staff

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Near Northeast Philadelphia: Fox Chase, Tacony, Frankford, Lawn Crest, and Rhawnhurst

Overview

Near Northeast Philadelphia encompasses multiple neighborhoods including Fox Chase, Tacony, Frankford, Lawn Crest, and Rhawnhurst. A large part of this area is made up of working-class families living in single-family homes, and there is also a large immigrant population leading to cultural diversity. While there are plenty of businesses in the area, some appear rundown. However, as people move north from neighborhoods like Olde Kensington, the area is changing. The eastern sections of the Near Northeast have easy access to I-95, but train stations are limited.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $950

2-bedroom: $1,200

3-bedroom: $1,500

Notable attractions

• Rieker's Prime Meats: Authentic German deli meats and sausages
• Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Museum: Get up close and personal with insects
• Fox Chase Farm: Working livestock farm with events like sheep shearing day

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Manayunk

Overview

Located on the banks of the Schuylkill River, Manayunk is a hilly neighborhood with a small-town vibe. Historically, the neighborhood was filled with working-class families, but a younger and wealthier demographic has moved in the past 10 years. Now, both families and singles of all ages live in historic Victorian houses, row homes, and newly-built apartment complexes. Main Street—what some say is the yuppie hot spot of Philly—is the gathering point in Manayunk, and residents congregate at restaurants, bars, and galleries. A SEPTA train runs through the neighborhood, and it's also possible to walk or bike into Center City on the Schuylkill River Trail.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,400

2-bedroom: $1,650

3-bedroom: $1,850

Notable attractions

• Lucky's Last Chance: Gourmet burgers and lots of beers on tap
• The Little Apple: Boutique carrying unique gifts
• Safa Persian Teahouse: Custom blended teas and Persian snacks

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Mount Airy

Overview

Mount Airy, which is divided by Germantown Avenue into East Mt. Airy and West Mt. Airy, is a quiet, relaxed, and diverse neighborhood with a strong feeling of community and historic charm. Germantown Ave is the commercial hub of the area and the remainder of the neighborhoods consists mainly of rowhomes, townhouses, and small businesses. There's ample green space, and Wissahickon Valley Park isn't far away. A regional rail line runs through East Mt. Airy into Center City, but it's helpful to have a car to get around.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,100

2-bedroom: $1,450

3-bedroom: $1,600

Notable attractions

• Weaver's Way Co-op: Local grocery store carrying natural goods
• Earth Bread + Brewery: Grains in the form of flatbreads and beers

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Northern Liberties

Overview

Northern Liberties started out as an artists' enclave where newcomers mingled with established residents. Now, the neighborhood is filled with transplants that flocked here due to the plethora of amenities and easy access to Center City. NoLibs went through the gentrification process earlier than adjacent neighborhoods, so it feels a bit more settled and less economically diverse. During this period, many of the former industrial buildings were renovated into trendy housing or brewpubs, which now attract middle and upper-class residents.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,700

2-bedroom: $2,250

3-bedroom: $2,900

Notable attractions

• Honey's Sit 'N Eat: Great breakfast and BYOB
• Ortlieb's: Funky live music with burgers and burritos
• The Piazza: Open-air courtyard surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, and housing

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Old City

Overview

The Old City is filled with historic buildings and cobblestone streets, but don't think the neighborhood feels stuck in the past. While residents once left the area, a successful revival period lead to the current boutiques, brewpubs, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Ample nightlife options keep the area lively, and the quiet residential streets and Delaware River waterfront provide a space to escape the commotion. If you want to head somewhere else, the Old City has excellent access to public transportation, and it's one of the most walkable Philadelphia neighborhoods, but parking is tricky to find. Side note: Many of the sidewalks are made of brick, so walking on heels there can be challenging.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,600

2-bedroom: $2,450

3-bedroom: $4,000

Notable attractions

• Elfreth's Alley: Oldest continuously inhabited street in the US
• First Friday: Galleries, shops, and restaurants welcome visitors on the first Friday of each month
• Liberty Bell: Historic symbol of independence

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Point Breeze

Overview

Point Breeze is a South Philadelphia neighborhood that is changing and growing, although battles over zoning have slowed development. Despite these challenges, recently constructed or restored houses now mix in with neglected buildings, and more people are moving to the area due to its affordability compared to nearby neighborhoods like Graduate Hospital and Passyunk Square. Point Breeze is within walking distance of Center City, and there's easy access to public transportation. The number of restaurants and bars in the neighborhood is increasing, but you'll notice a lack of trees and public parks.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,250

2-bedroom: $1,550

3-bedroom: $2,000

Notable attractions

• On Point Bistro: American grub at a BYOB
• American Sardine Bar: Sandwiches, snacks, and craft beer in a hip atmosphere

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Queen Village

Overview

Queen Village offers a tight-knit community feel, charming properties, and lots of small businesses—all aspects that lead to its desirability. Fourth Street used to be filled with fabric stores, and while some of these stores still remain, they now mix with cafes and boutiques. Queen Village isn't close to any train lines, but the neighborhood has almost everything you could want, including restaurants, bars, trees, live music, a waterfront, and independent shops. Despite the amenities, Queen Village is mostly quiet, except for the northern section near South Street. The housing is a mix of historic brick houses, modern condos, and loft apartments in charming buildings.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,500

2-bedroom: $1,850

3-bedroom: $2,800

Notable attractions

• Royal Sushi & Izakaya: Japanese pub with some of the best sushi in Philly
• New Wave Cafe: Friendly folks serving casual yet delicious bar food and drinks
• Fabric Row: Section of Fourth Street where remaining fabric shops mingle with cafes and boutiques

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Rittenhouse Square

Overview

The posh Rittenhouse Square is filled with upscale homes, high-end retail, and cosmopolitan dining options, all in the heart of the city. Both visitors and residents stroll along the picturesque streets such as Walnut and Chestnut to shop at both boutiques and chain stores. Quieter residential streets offer mid-rise apartment buildings, luxurious (and expensive) penthouses, and historic row homes. The entire neighborhood is gorgeous, and the namesake Rittenhouse Square Park offers a place for sunbathers, dog-walkers, artists, tourists, and families with children to hang out.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,650

2-bedroom: $2,450

3-bedroom: $4,300

Notable attractions

• Monk's Cafe: Brewpub known for its mussels and craft beers
• Plays and Players Theatre: Intimate theater hosting small performances
• The Rosenbach: Large collection of books and documents inside a historic townhouse

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Roxborough

Overview

Situated about 10 miles Northeast of Center City, Roxborough is bordered by both the Delaware River and Wissahickon Creek. The area is largely residential, with lots of single-family homes, many with sizable yards, driveways, and garages. The main draw of Roxborough, besides the affordable larger properties, is the amount of green space and easy access to the expansive Wissahickon Valley Park. The neighborhood feels like a small town/suburb more than an urban area, but if you want more dining and entertainment options in an urban setting, it's easy to head to Manayunk to the south.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,200

2-bedroom: $1,450

3-bedroom: $1,700

Notable attractions

• Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education: Trails and an educational nature center
• Valley Green Inn: Historic inn turned restaurant near Wissahickon Creek

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Society Hill

Overview

Filled with historic buildings that underwent renovation and revitalization in the 1960s, Society Hill is a wealthy and charming neighborhood. Most of the streets are residential, and commercial districts are located near the edges of the neighborhood. These streets are dotted with cafes and restaurants that offer patios overlooking the tree-lined streets. Headhouse Square is a historic area with cobblestone streets and brick buildings that is home to a number of restaurants and bars. Another gem in Society Hill is the shady Washington Square Park near Center City.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,200

2-bedroom: $1,450

3-bedroom: $1,700

Notable attractions

• Headhouse Farmers' Market: The oldest market in the city, held every Sunday
• Zahav: Israeli cooking with a modern twist

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Spring Garden

Overview

Historically, Spring Garden was a wealthy suburb filled with ornate houses. While this gorgeous architecture is still present in the Spring Garden's historic district, the neighborhood is now a hub for civic and cultural institutions, and new condos and renovated townhomes mix in with the historic homes. Wandering through the tree-lined streets to look at Spring Garden's architecture is an activity in itself, but museums, restaurants, and the Schuylkill River waterfront are all nearby. Center City and all it has to offer is also within walking distance.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,500

2-bedroom: $1,850

3-bedroom: $2,300

Notable attractions

• Mural Arts Philadelphia: Street art center offering tours
• Bar Hyge: Sandwiches, snacks, and beer brewed on-site

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University City

Overview

The West Philadelphia neighborhood of University City is named after the presence of The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. While the neighborhood includes campus buildings and a diverse student population, don't think it's just for students. University City has creative restaurants, attractive art galleries, and quiet bars, as well as businesses that cater to college students. University City can be broken up into smaller areas including Squirrel Hill, Cedar Park, and Walnut Hill. If you're looking for a quiet atmosphere, check out the western areas of the neighborhood.

Average rent prices

Studio / 1-bedroom: $1,300

2-bedroom: $1,500

3-bedroom: $2,200

Notable attractions

• World Cafe Live Philadelphia: Live music venue with a small lounge and large music hall
• Cira Green: Rooftop park with city views and movie nights

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Choose your new Philadelphia home

Now that you know a bit more about Philadelphia neighborhoods, it's time to pick one that's right for you and your budget. Remember that neighborhoods can vary between blocks, so it's a good idea to walk around your future neighborhood before signing a lease.

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