Jump to any of the following sections to learn more about what to expect living in Philadelphia, PA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its diverse population and rich history, Philadelphia offers an appealing blend of civic pride, vibrant sports culture and culinary delights \u2013 most notably, the iconic Philly cheesesteak. Pennsylvania\u2019s largest city is home to over 1.5 million people who proudly (and aptly) wear the moniker of the \u201cCity of Brotherly Love.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Living in the birthplace of America means enjoying the world-class amenities and culture that come with it. Whether you\u2019re coming to Philly for the day to catch a game and re-enact the famous staircase scene from <\/span>Rocky<\/span><\/i>, or you\u2019re moving to Philadelphia permanently for school or work, you\u2019ll learn quickly why <\/span>TIME Magazine<\/span><\/i> ranked the city as one of the \u201c<\/span>World\u2019s Greatest Places<\/span><\/a>.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Wondering what it\u2019s like living in Philadelphia? Here are some things the locals love<\/a> about their historic hometown:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ridiculously Good Food: <\/b>Imagine living in a city where you are guaranteed delicious food every. Single. Day. Philadelphia is a foodie paradise known for its festivals and diverse food markets like Reading Terminal Market.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n An Impressive Selection of Sports: <\/b>Love sports? You\u2019ll get your fill with Philly\u2019s five professional teams: the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Phillies (MBA), Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), and the Philadelphia Union (MLS).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n An Eclectic Arts & Cultural Scene: <\/b>Philadelphia is <\/span>one of the most diverse cities in the nation<\/span><\/a>, meaning you\u2019ll find no shortage of phenomenal festivals and events. It\u2019s also home to world-class museums like the Barnes Foundation and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Iconic Historic Buildings & Monuments: <\/b>Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia City Hall are just a few of the city\u2019s must-see historical attractions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Although there are plenty of things to brag about in Philadelphia, it\u2019s not all rainbows and puppy dogs. Like any large metropolis, there are some not-so-lovely things about the City of Brotherly Love.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Poverty: <\/b>Philadelphia ‘s poverty rate is around 23 percent, higher than the national average of 11 percent. Contributing factors include high unemployment rates and a lack of affordable housing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Elevated Crime Rates: <\/b>Although Philadelphia has struggled with crime rates higher than the national average, its rates have been steadily decreasing each year. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Aging Infrastructure: <\/b>For a city that is well over 300 years old, Philly has its share of issues. An aging sewer system, numerous potholes and an outdated public transportation system are just a few of the city\u2019s ongoing struggles. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As the economic hub of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia enjoys a competitive job market and thriving economy. With over 45 million people visiting annually, the tourism and hospitality industries are robust and growing. Other key sectors include education, healthcare, finance and manufacturing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Young professionals moving to Philly can find employment with major employers such as the University of Pennsylvania, Thomas Jefferson University, the Children\u2019s Hospital of Philadelphia or The Giant Company. Philadelphia is home to multiple Fortune 500 companies, adding to the allure of career prospects in the city.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Philadelphia\u2019s real estate market boasts an array of housing options appealing to every taste and budget. Whether you prefer living in a historic row house or an upscale condo, you\u2019ll find your perfect forever home here.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Approximately 48 percent of Philly\u2019s population rent their home, with the average rent at $1,896\/month for an average-sized apartment. Homeowners can expect to pay around $260,000 for a home, less than what they\u2019d pay in other major cities.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Philly boasts over 100 distinct neighborhoods, all with their own unique characteristics and sense of community pride. Here are a few popular choices:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n This upscale neighborhood in the heart of Center City is one of Philadelphia\u2019s most desirable communities. Residents here enjoy fine dining options, chic boutiques and trendy caf\u00e9s. It\u2019s home to stunning 19<\/span>th<\/span> and 20<\/span>th<\/span>-century townhomes and close to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. The neighborhood’s crown jewel, the picturesque Rittenhouse Square Park, offers an idyllic, lush retreat where locals gather to picnic, enjoy community events, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n University City is in western Philadelphia and, as its name implies, is home to the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University and numerous other educational and research centers. This neighborhood is alive with youthful vibrancy and intellectual energy. Popular with students and faculty, University City is also home to families who enjoy the area\u2019s cultural appeal and safety rating and young professionals who love the varied amenities and easy access to downtown Philly.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Trendy Washington Square West has it all: safety, beauty, quality amenities, lively bars and proximity to countless attractions. This diverse neighborhood is home to local favorites Jewelers Row and Antique Row, where buyers spend hours browsing unique galleries, shops and boutiques. Washington Square West is an inclusive, tight-knit community and is lovingly called \u201cThe Gayborhood” in honor of its thriving LGBTQ+ community. The area\u2019s central location means you\u2019ll enjoy easy access to many of Philly\u2019s greatest attractions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/span>Back to Top<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Nationwide, Philadelphia is one of the <\/span>best cities for public transportation<\/span><\/a>. Around 26 percent of its population uses transit, with SEPTA (the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) providing their transportation. This public transportation system includes a subway, elevated train, rail train lines, buses, light rails, trolleys and trolleybus lines. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Philadelphians also utilize rideshare options and the city\u2019s Indego bike-share program. The bikes are available 24\/7, year-round at over 140 stations around town. You may want to consider putting your car in storage with the exorbitant cost of parking or reserving a spot in a garage, which can easily amount to $600\/month or more. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The School District of Philadelphia is one of the nation\u2019s largest urban public school systems and operates diverse educational institutions. The city is home to public, private, charter and magnet schools, ensuring all families have a choice in their child\u2019s education.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n In terms of higher education, students have numerous options, with the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University leading the way. UPenn is a prestigious Ivy League school with over 23,000 students enrolled and an impressive 96 percent graduation rate. Students have over 90 majors and 450 student groups to choose from. Drexel University is a global R1-level research university with an enrollment of over 22,000. The school offers more than 200 degree programs in its 15 colleges and schools. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nA Slice of Life in Philly<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Diverse Industries Fuel Philadelphia\u2019s Economy<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Philadelphia’s Real Estate Market as Diverse as the City Itself<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Popular Neighborhoods in the City of Brotherly Love<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Rittenhouse Square <\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
University City<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Washington Square West<\/b><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
SEPTA: Your Ticket to Hassle-Free Travel in Philly<\/b> <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Philadelphia is Home to Innovative and Inclusive Schools<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n