In Philadelphia, history meets modernity in the most charming way. Its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and thriving cultural scene make it a unique place to call home. Not sure if the City of Brotherly Love is for you? Read on to find out what to expect if you’re considering a move to the Philadelphia area in 2024.
You know it from: Rocky, Philadelphia, Silver Linings Playbook, The Happening
Average 1 bedroom rent: $1,815 | Philadelphia apartments for rent, Philadelphia houses for rent
Average home price: $280,000 | Philadelphia homes for sale
Average cost of full-service moving services: $182/hr for 2 movers
Average cost to rent a moving truck: $19 – $39/day
Top industries: Life Sciences, Financial Services, Technology, Advanced Manufacturing
Move here for: Cool museums, Car-free lifestyle, Affordability
Be sure to bring: A bike and your appetite
1. Historical significance is everywhere
Philadelphia is a city steeped in history, known for its pivotal role in the American Revolution. Walking through neighborhoods like Old City, you’ll find yourself amidst landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The city’s rich historical tapestry offers a unique blend of past and present, making it a fascinating place to live. Whether you’re visiting the Benjamin Franklin Museum or exploring Elfreth’s Alley, history buffs will find endless opportunities to delve into the past.
2. Each neighborhood has a distinct vibe
From the artsy, bohemian feel of Fishtown to the upscale elegance of Rittenhouse Square, each neighborhood in Philadelphia offers a distinct vibe. Graduate Hospital, with its proximity to Center City, appeals to young professionals, while South Philly is known for its tight-knit communities and fantastic food scene.
Moving Tip: In addition to finding the right cultural fit for your neighborhood, you can also compare rent prices across different neighborhoods. Understanding neighborhood characteristics like walkability, public transit, and home value is crucial for finding your perfect spot in the city.
3. The food is excellent and argued over
Philadelphia’s food scene is legendary, extending far beyond the iconic cheesesteak. In South Philly, the Italian Market is the oldest continuously operating outdoor market in America, offering fresh produce, meats, and specialty items. Restaurants like Zahav, which showcases modern Israeli cuisine, have earned national acclaim. The city’s vibrant dining scene includes everything from food trucks in University City to fine dining in Midtown Village.
Moving Tip: To save money on drinks, try one of the hundreds of BYOB restaurants in Philadelphia. While they’re relatively uncommon in other East Coast cities, Philly has a lot of excellent restaurants where you can bring your own beer or wine.
4. You can leave your car at home
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides extensive coverage throughout the city, making it easy to get around without a car. The Broad Street Line and Market-Frankford Line are the main subway routes, complemented by numerous bus and trolley services. For those commuting to the suburbs, regional rail lines extend far beyond the city limits. It’s also a quick(ish) trip of 2-3 hours to East Coast cities like New York or D.C. via SEPTA and Amtrak.
Moving Tip: SEPTA’s app is a great way to buy tickets and check routes while you’re out and about. To get to New York, Boston, or D.C. you can also connect to Amtrak from several SEPTA stations.
5. Getting around is a walk (or bike) in the park
Philadelphia is one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., with neighborhoods like Center City, Old City, and Society Hill offering pedestrian-friendly streets. The Schuylkill River Trail is a popular spot for joggers and cyclists, providing scenic views of the skyline. Indego, the city’s bike-share program, has stations scattered throughout, promoting a bike-friendly environment. Bike culture is big here and it’s a very popular way to get around town.
6. The arts scene is thriving
The arts scene in Philadelphia is among the best on the East Coast. Institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation showcase world-class collections. The Avenue of the Arts, located on South Broad Street, is home to numerous theaters, including the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Local galleries and street art, particularly in neighborhoods like Northern Liberties, reflect the city’s creative spirit. Monthly events like First Friday, an open gallery night, highlight local art and artists.
7. The sports enthusiasm is intense
Philadelphia’s sports fans are known for their passion and loyalty, supporting teams like the Eagles, Phillies, 76ers, and Flyers. Lincoln Financial Field, Citizens Bank Park, and the Wells Fargo Center are iconic venues where fans gather to cheer on their teams. This enthusiasm extends beyond professional sports, with local colleges and high schools also boasting strong athletic programs.
8. Plenty of green spaces and parks
Despite being a bustling urban environment, Philadelphia offers ample green spaces for relaxation and recreation. Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban park systems in the country, provides a serene escape with trails, gardens, and historic mansions. In the summer, Spruce Street Harbor Park, along the Delaware River, transforms into a lively spot with hammocks, food vendors, and seasonal activities.
9. High-quality educational opportunities
Philadelphia is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Temple University. These institutions not only provide excellent education but they also contribute to the city’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Additionally, the Philadelphia School District offers a range of public, charter, and magnet schools.
10. A strong job market and economy
Philadelphia’s job market is diverse, with strong sectors in education, healthcare, technology, and finance. Major employers include the University of Pennsylvania Health System, Comcast, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The city’s strategic location on the East Coast, along with its extensive transportation infrastructure, makes it an attractive place for businesses. Additionally, various coworking spaces and startup incubators support the growing entrepreneurial community.
11. A relatively affordable cost of living
Compared to other major East Coast cities like New York and Washington, D.C., Philadelphia offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Housing costs are lower, and the city provides a range of options from modern apartments in Center City to historic row homes in neighborhoods like Queen Village. The overall affordability allows residents to enjoy a high quality of life without the financial strain associated with other metropolitan areas.
12. Hope you like the four seasons
Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers, crisp autumns, cold winters, and blooming springs. Summers can be humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s and 90s. Winters bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, while spring and fall are mild and picturesque. This seasonal variety allows residents to enjoy a range of outdoor activities throughout the year, from summer festivals to winter ice skating at Dilworth Park.
13. Excellent healthcare and medical facilities
Philadelphia is renowned for its medical facilities and healthcare services, with top-ranked hospitals like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Jefferson Health. The city is a hub for medical research and innovation, contributing to advancements in healthcare. Access to quality medical care is a significant advantage for residents, ensuring they have the resources needed for maintaining their health and well-being.
Moving Tip: Philly has a storied history in American medicine. It was home to the first medical society in the country – the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. The College is still in operation and members of the public with especially strong stomachs can visit its Mutter Museum to view specimens and learn about the history of medicine the U.S.
14. Colorful nightlife
The nightlife in Philadelphia is lively and varied, offering something for everyone. South Street is known for its eclectic mix of bars, music venues, and eateries. The Northern Liberties and Fishtown neighborhoods are hotspots for trendy bars and live music. For a more upscale experience, Rittenhouse Square boasts chic lounges and fine dining.
Methodology: Average rent prices sourced from Rent.com August 2024. Home prices sourced from Redfin August 2024. Average moving costs sourced from MoveBuddha. Employment data sourced from Select Greater Philadelphia.