So, you’re looking to make a move in Philly?
Well, with over 150 neighborhoods to pick from, finding the right one can feel like sorting through a pile of cheesesteaks—you know there’s a perfect match somewhere, but where to start?
Luckily, Philly has a neighborhood for just about everyone, whether you’re into historic streets, buzzing nightlife, or tree-lined blocks that feel like a world away from Center City.
Having hopped around the city myself, I can tell you one thing: each neighborhood has its quirks, pros, and occasional cons (looking at you, parking).
But whether you’re after affordable living, walkability, or simply a spot that fits your needs, this list breaks down the top neighborhoods to live in Philadelphia, with real insights to help you find your next home base.
Passyunk Square
Best for: Foodies, young professionals, and those who want a neighborhood where everything’s within walking distance.
Passyunk Square, or “Pashunk,” if you’re trying to fit in, has become one of the best places to live in Philadelphia for its charm, convenience, and affordability.
With a median home price of $373,000 and a median household income of $94,000, it’s a great option for those looking for value without giving up access to some of the city’s best amenities.
East Passyunk Avenue is the neighborhood’s crown jewel, a lively stretch with restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.
Sure, Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteak rivalry is what most people know, but locals will tell you it’s the smaller, less famous spots that steal the show.
Add in its perfect walkability score, and it’s easy to see why Passyunk draws young professionals and families.
Columbus Square Park offers a dose of green space—great for dog owners or anyone looking for a break from the urban buzz.
And while Passyunk doesn’t lean heavily into nightlife, its proximity to Center City (just 15 minutes by car or 30 minutes on foot) means you’re never far from the action.
Passyunk Square combines the best of city living—great food, easy access to transit, and a tight-knit community feel—so it’s a standout choice for those who want a little bit of everything.
Chestnut Hill
Best for: Families who want outdoor space, professionals who value upscale living, and anyone drawn to history and greenery.
When you’re done with cramped apartments, Chestnut Hill is the neighborhood you move to when you’re done but not quite ready to leave Philly behind.
Known as the city’s “Garden District,” it has big yards, historic homes, and more greenery than most neighborhoods dream of.
The $650,000 median home price might make you wince, but it’s a solid investment if you’re after space and character.
This isn’t the place for late-night parties or trendy bars—that’s not Chestnut Hill’s thing.
Instead, you’ll find Germantown Avenue, where cobblestone streets are lined with local shops, cozy bakeries, and restaurants perfect for a Saturday afternoon wander.
And if you need a nature fix, Wissahickon Valley Park and its 1,800 acres of trails are just a stone’s throw away.
The commute to Center City is manageable: a 25-30 minute drive or a 45-minute train ride on SEPTA.
It’s not the most convenient location, but for those figuring out where to live in Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill delivers space, calm, and a slice of suburban life without fully leaving the city.
Fairmount
Best for: Families, art and museum lovers, and professionals who want greenspace with easy access to downtown.
Fairmount is where families and culture lovers find common ground.
It’s home to some of Philly’s most iconic museums, like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the Barnes Foundation, so it’s ideal for anyone who values weekends filled with exploration.
For families, Fairmount Park—a massive 2,000-acre oasis—offers endless options for outdoor play, picnics, and scenic walks while staying close to the city center.
Professionals love Fairmount for its manageable commute to Center City—about 10 minutes by bike or 20 minutes on SEPTA.
The neighborhood’s quiet streets and walkability make it a great choice for those who want convenience without the noise.
Housing here is accessible compared to other central neighborhoods, with median home prices around $433,000 and one-bedroom rentals averaging $2,300.
Add in a vibrant dining scene—think Sabrina’s Cafe for brunch or Pizzeria Vetri for casual nights out—and Fairmount stands out as one of the best Philadelphia neighborhoods, especially if you’re seeking a balance of culture, comfort, and accessibility.
Rittenhouse Square
Best for: Professionals and couples who want city convenience, upscale amenities, and a lively neighborhood feel.
Rittenhouse Square is one of the best Philly neighborhoods for people who want to be in the middle of it all without sacrificing comfort.
With median home prices at $540,000 and one-bedroom rentals averaging $2,450, it’s not the cheapest spot in town, but the location and amenities make up for it.
What makes Rittenhouse different is how livable it feels despite being in the heart of Center City.
The park is a natural gathering place for locals—whether you’re walking your dog, catching up with a friend, etc.
And I can’t forget to mention that the surrounding park has some of the city’s best dining options, from Parc’s French bistro vibes to Vernick Food & Drink’s modern take on fine dining.
It’s also a walker’s paradise. Most errands, meals, and commutes can be handled on foot.
And for those working downtown, getting to the office is a breeze, and public transit options like SEPTA bus lines and nearby stations are there if you need them.
Society Hill
Best for: Families looking for safety and green spaces and professionals seeking a polished, low-key neighborhood with easy access to the city.
Society Hill is one of the best areas to live in Philadelphia if safety and convenience are non-negotiable.
Families love the quiet streets and proximity to Washington Square Park—a perfect spot for everything from playtime to a quiet afternoon recharge.
On the other hand, professionals enjoy the quick commute options, with SEPTA and PATCO transit lines close by and Camden just a 12-minute drive over the Ben Franklin Bridge.
The housing market reflects the area’s appeal, with median home prices at $452,600 and one-bedroom rentals averaging $2,500. While on the pricier side, the trade-off is a neighborhood that feels accessible and upscale.
And when it’s time to eat, Royal Sushi & Izakaya is the neighborhood favorite—exceptional sushi from one of Philly’s top chefs.
And for something casual, Spruce Street Harbor Park serves up food trucks and a laid-back waterfront vibe during the warmer months.
Society Hill doesn’t overpromise or try too hard—it’s a neighborhood that knows its strengths and plays to them. Whether you’re raising a family or looking for a calm retreat near the city center, it’s hard to go wrong here.
Fishtown
Best for: Young professionals, creatives, and foodies who want a vibrant, walkable neighborhood packed with personality.
Fishtown has earned its reputation as one of Philly’s coolest neighborhoods—and it’s not hard to see why.
With its mix of live music venues, indie coffee shops, and incredible restaurants, it’s a natural pick for those looking for the best place to live in Philadelphia if culture and community are priorities.
For commuters, the Market-Frankford Line zips you to Center City in about 20 minutes, and I-95 makes road trips easy.
With average rents at $2,225 and home prices around $358,800, it’s more approachable than some of Philly’s pricier neighborhoods, but it doesn’t skimp on character.
And the food scene here will hit you in the face with a pleasant surprise.
You have Pizza Brain—a whole museum dedicated to pizza culture (yes, that’s a thing).
And then there’s Pizzeria Beddia, once dubbed the “Best Pizza in America” by Bon Appétit.
But you’ll find much more than pizza, as Frankford Hall serves up beer and brats in a big, backyard-style setting, but that hardly scratches the surface of the hidden gem food joints here.
University City
Best for: Students, academics, and professionals who need easy commutes and love living close to green spaces and cultural hubs.
University City feels like its own little city within Philly, powered by the energy of Penn, Drexel, and the University of the Sciences.
It’s a neighborhood where students fill the coffee shops, researchers head to labs, and locals stroll to Penn Park for some fresh air.
Housing here fits a mix of budgets—from basic student apartments to newer, upscale high-rises—with median home prices around $472,800 and one-bedroom rents averaging $2,725.
University City is probably the best neighborhood in Philadelphia in terms of practicality.
The Market-Frankford Line gets you downtown in minutes, and 30th Street Station connects you to Amtrak, regional trains, and even New Jersey Transit.
Add in a strong local food scene—Baltimore Avenue is packed with spots offering everything from Ethiopian platters to breakfast burritos—and you’ve got a neighborhood that doesn’t require a car to enjoy.
If you’re balancing studies, work, and city living, it’s a vibrant, well-connected choice that might just be the best neighborhood for you.
Finding Your Place Among the Best Places to Live in Philly
Philly’s neighborhoods each have their own thing going on, and that’s what makes this city so livable.
Chestnut Hill feels like a retreat for families—you’ll find green spaces, historic homes, and a slower pace that still keeps you close to the city.
Fishtown, on the other hand, is for young professionals and creatives who want to be at the center of it all.
But if walkability and food are non-negotiable, Passyunk Square is probably your best bet.
And University City is hard to beat for students and professionals who need quick commutes and love a neighborhood with energy.
But then there’s Rittenhouse Square: polished, central, and perfect for anyone who wants to feel connected to Philly’s best dining, shopping, and nightlife without losing the comforts of green space.
So, whatever you’re after, you can find it in Philly.
The hardest part is choosing where to start.
