Philadelphia offers incredible value compared to NYC, DC, or Boston. You can find quality apartments in walkable, transit-connected neighborhoods without breaking the bank. Here's where to look at every budget level.
Under $1,200/month
Best value in a major East Coast city
Roxborough
Northwest Philadelphia
Quiet, residential neighborhood with small-town feel. Great for those who don't mind a longer commute.
West Philadelphia (outer)
Between University City and City Line
Affordable options near UPenn/Drexel area. More residential than the core University City.
Kensington (parts)
North of Fishtown
Rapidly changing neighborhood. Research blocks carefully—quality varies significantly street to street.
$1,200 - $1,600/month
Sweet spot for young professionals
Manayunk
Northwest Philadelphia
Main Street restaurants and bars, Schuylkill River Trail access. Popular with young professionals.
South Philadelphia
Below Center City
Italian Market, cheesesteaks, rowhouse charm. Authentic Philly neighborhood with character.
Port Richmond
Along the Delaware River
Close to Fishtown but more affordable. Polish heritage, evolving food scene.
$1,600 - $2,000/month
Trendy, walkable, great transit
Fishtown
North of Center City
Philly's trendiest neighborhood. Breweries, restaurants, music venues. Former industrial area now fully gentrified.
Northern Liberties
Between Fishtown and Center City
Mix of new construction and renovated rowhouses. Great restaurants, walkable to Center City.
Graduate Hospital (G-Ho)
South of Center City
Tree-lined streets, beautiful rowhouses, neighborhood feel. Walk to Center City or Rittenhouse.
University City
West Philadelphia
Home to Penn and Drexel. Good transit, diverse dining, lively campus atmosphere year-round.
$2,000+/month
Luxury and prime locations
Rittenhouse Square
Center City
The most prestigious address in Philadelphia. Beautiful park, upscale dining, luxury buildings.
Center City (core)
Downtown Philadelphia
True urban living. Walk to everything. Mix of high-rises and historic buildings.
Old City
Historic district
Cobblestone streets, galleries, historic landmarks. First Fridays art walks. Loft-style apartments.
Quick Comparison
| Neighborhood | Avg 1BR | Transit | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roxborough | $1,050 | Regional Rail | Quiet, family |
| Manayunk | $1,300 | Regional Rail | Young, active |
| South Philly | $1,400 | BSL, walkable | Local, authentic |
| Fishtown | $1,750 | MFL | Trendy, nightlife |
| Graduate Hospital | $1,650 | BSL, walkable | Quiet, residential |
| Rittenhouse | $2,400 | BSL, walkable | Upscale, park |
Neighborhood Search Tips
- Walk the neighborhood — Visit at different times of day
- Check SEPTA access — If you commute, prioritize subway/trolley lines
- Ask about parking — Street parking varies wildly by neighborhood
- Consider walkability — Philly neighborhoods are very walkable compared to other cities
- Research the blocks — Quality can change street by street in transitioning areas