Philadelphia, PA, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse neighborhoods. With iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the City of Brotherly Love offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Philadelphia, you’ll find that the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,787. ApartmentGuide has gathered a list of the top ten most expensive Philadelphia neighborhoods to rent an apartment this year.
10 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Philadelphia
From University City to Rittenhouse Square, there are plenty of fantastic neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious home to rent in Philadelphia or wondering where to live in the city, read on to find out what neighborhoods made the list.
1. Logan Square
2. University City
3. Society Hill
4. Center City
5. Avenue of the Arts North
6. Rittenhouse Square
7. Northern Liberties
8. Avenue of the Arts South
9. Old City
10. Washington Square West
Let’s jump in and see what these neighborhoods have to offer.
1. Logan Square
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,310
Apartments for rent in Logan Square
This vibrant neighborhood offers a strategic location with easy access to major highways, public transportation, and the business district, making commutes and city exploration seamless. Logan Square is renowned for its cultural institutions such as the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation, providing residents with rich educational and recreational opportunities. The neighborhood’s beautiful architecture, ranging from historic brownstones to modern high-rises, caters to diverse housing preferences. Additionally, the presence of Logan Circle and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway offers ample green space for relaxation and outdoor activities.
2. University City
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,215
Apartments for rent in University City
Renters are drawn to University City for its unique blend of academic vibrancy, cultural diversity, and modern amenities. This neighborhood, anchored by prestigious institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, offers a dynamic atmosphere rich with opportunities. The area is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Excellent public transportation options, including several SEPTA lines, make commuting to other parts of the city convenient. University City’s green spaces, like Clark Park and Penn Park, provide residents with welcoming outdoor areas to relax and socialize. Additionally, the neighborhood’s strong sense of community and ongoing developments in housing and infrastructure enhance its appeal. The average rent for one-bedroom apartments is $2,215, which is about $400 above the city’s average, making it a pricier neighborhood. However, University City’s charm and amenities are worth it.
3. Society Hill
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,085
Apartments for rent in Society Hill
Society Hill is the next most expensive neighborhood in Philadelphia. Known for its beautifully preserved 18th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and lush green spaces, Society Hill offers a picturesque and tranquil environment that contrasts with the bustling city. The neighborhood’s proximity to Center City allows for easy access to the city’s business districts, cultural attractions, and dining and shopping options. Additionally, Society Hill’s strong sense of community, coupled with its safety and cleanliness, creates a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for residents.
4. Center City
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,077
Apartments for rent in Center City
Center City is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live close to downtown. The neighborhood offers an abundance of amenities within walking distance, including diverse dining options, upscale shopping, and a variety of attractions like theaters, museums, and historical sites. Its central location provides easy access to public transportation, making commutes seamless whether within the city or to surrounding areas. The lively atmosphere, marked by events, festivals, and a bustling nightlife, appeals to those seeking an active social scene. Additionally, Center City’s blend of historic architecture and modern residential buildings provides a range of housing options to suit different tastes and budgets. This dynamic environment, combined with the allure of living at the heart of Philadelphia’s cultural and economic activity, makes Center City a highly desirable area for renters.While more expensive, the perks of living in Center City may help offset the costs.
5. Avenue of Arts North
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,061
Apartments for rent in Avenue of Arts North
Next up is Avenue of Arts North, the sixth most expensive neighborhood in Philadelphia. This neighborhood, stretching along North Broad Street, is renowned for its proximity to some of the city’s premier performing arts venues, including the historic Met Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Its central location provides easy access to public transportation, making commutes and travel throughout the city straightforward. Additionally, the area offers a mix of modern apartments and charming historic buildings, catering to a range of lifestyle preferences and budgets. With a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, renters appreciate the lively atmosphere and the sense of community in Avenue of the Arts North.
6. Rittenhouse Square
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,995
Apartments for rent in Rittenhouse Square
Located west of downtown, Rittenhouse Square is the next neighborhood on our list. At the heart of this area lies Rittenhouse Square Park, a lush, historic green space that offers a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Surrounding the park are high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and chic cafes, creating a lively atmosphere that caters to a sophisticated lifestyle. The neighborhood’s elegant brownstones and modern apartment buildings provide a range of housing options, many with picturesque views of the park. Its central location ensures easy access to other parts of the city, enhancing the appeal for renters.
7. Northern Liberties
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,962
Apartments for rent in Northern Liberties
Northern Liberties takes the eighth spot on our list of most expensive neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Renters are drawn to the Northern Liberties neighborhood for its unique blend of urban sophistication and artistic charm. This area, once a manufacturing district, has transformed into a trendy hotspot known for its vibrant community and eclectic vibe. Northern Liberties boasts an array of stylish lofts, modern apartments, and historic row houses. The neighborhood’s thriving arts scene, independent boutiques, and a plethora of dining options, ranging from chic cafes to gourmet restaurants, provide a lively and engaging atmosphere. Its close proximity to Center City and convenient SEPTA options make it an ideal location for professionals seeking a balance between work and leisure.
8. Avenue of Arts South
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,922
Apartments for rent in Avenue of Arts South
A well-loved Philadelphia neighborhood, Avenue of Arts South is the next area on our list. Avenue of the Arts South is centered around the southern stretch of Broad Street and is renowned for its theaters, including the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and the Academy of Music. The area offers a rich array of live performances from Broadway shows to symphony orchestras. The neighborhood’s lively arts scene is complemented by a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, providing ample entertainment and dining options. Additionally, its central location offers excellent accessibility to public transportation, making commutes easy and efficient. The blend of historic architecture with modern amenities adds to its charm, making Avenue of the Arts South a desirable and dynamic place for renters who appreciate both cultural vibrancy and urban convenience.
9. Old City
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,900
Apartments for rent in Old City
The penultimate neighborhood on our list of most expensive neighborhoods in Philadelphia is Old City. Known as America’s most historic square mile, Old City is home to numerous colonial-era landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House, offering residents a daily connection to the nation’s founding history. The cobblestone streets, preserved 18th-century architecture, and art galleries create a picturesque and culturally rich environment. Additionally, Old City boasts a lively social scene with its trendy bars, diverse dining options, boutique shops, and regular events like the First Friday art walk. Its convenient location, with easy access to public transportation and proximity to other popular neighborhoods and downtown Philadelphia, further enhances its appeal.
10. Washington Square West
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,795
Apartments for rent in Washington Square West
Last, but not least, on our list is Washington Square West. This eclectic neighborhood offers a diverse array of rental options, from charming brownstones to modern apartment complexes, catering to various tastes and lifestyles. Residents appreciate the area’s central location, providing easy access to the city’s top attractions, dining establishments, and entertainment venues. Washington Square West boasts a lively atmosphere, with bustling streets lined with trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and lively bars. Its proximity to iconic landmarks like Washington Square Park and the Avenue of the Arts adds to its allure, offering renters the opportunity to immerse themselves in Philadelphia’s rich history and cultural scene. With its vibrant energy and prime location, Washington Square West continues to be a sought-after destination for renters looking to experience the best that Philadelphia has to offer.
Methodology: Whether a neighborhood has an average 1-bedroom rent price over the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com in June 2024.