Good news: apartment hunting in Philadelphia is less stressful than NYC or DC. The market moves slower, broker fees are rare, and you can actually find good places without a bidding war. Here's your complete roadmap.
When to Start Looking
Unlike NYC where you need to move fast, Philadelphia gives you more time:
Philadelphia Rental Timeline
Peak season is May-September. Winter (Nov-Feb) has less inventory but better deals.
Step 1: Set Your Budget
Most Philadelphia landlords require income of 2.5-3x monthly rent:
Budget Calculator
Based on 3x income requirement. Some landlords accept 2.5x.
Upfront Costs
- First month's rent — Always required
- Security deposit — Up to 2 months (first year)
- Last month's rent — Sometimes required
- Application fee — Usually $35-75
- Broker fee — Rare in Philadelphia!
Step 2: Choose Your Neighborhood
Quick Neighborhood Guide
Complete neighborhood guide by budget →
Step 3: Where to Search
Best Websites for Philadelphia
- Zillow / Trulia
Best overall for Philadelphia. Huge inventory.
- Apartments.com
Good for larger buildings and management companies.
- HotPads
Great filters, map-based search.
- Craigslist Philadelphia
Owner listings, but verify carefully for scams.
- Facebook Marketplace
Private landlords, sublets, roommate situations.
Local Property Management Companies
Many Philadelphia buildings are managed by local companies. Check their websites directly:
- Post Brothers
- PMC Property Group
- Korman Residential
- Pepper Mill Properties
Step 4: Research the Building
Critical step. Before applying, research any building you're considering:
Free Building Research
Search any Philadelphia address on StreetSmart to see L&I violations, property info, and building scores.
Search Any AddressComplete building research checklist →
Step 5: View the Apartment
During your visit, check:
- Water pressure — Run the shower, flush the toilet
- Cell service — Check signal in every room
- Natural light — Visit during daylight
- Outlets and closets — Older Philly buildings can be limited
- Heat type — Radiators, baseboard, forced air?
- Laundry — In-unit, in-building, or laundromat?
- Street parking — Permit required? How hard to find a spot?
- Package security — Where do deliveries go?
Step 6: Apply
Documents You'll Need
Application Checklist
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of income (2-3 pay stubs)
- Employment verification letter
- Bank statements (last 2-3 months)
- Previous landlord references
- Social Security Number (for credit check)
Step 7: Sign the Lease
Before signing, make sure you understand:
- Lease term — 12 months is standard, some offer month-to-month
- What's included — Utilities? Parking? Laundry?
- Pet policy — Fees, breed restrictions, deposits
- Renewal terms — How much notice? Automatic renewal?
- Breaking the lease — What are the penalties?
Pro Tips
Philadelphia Apartment Hunting Tips
- Don't rush — Philly moves slower than NYC, you have time
- Walk the neighborhood — Visit at different times of day
- Check the rental license — All Philly rentals need one
- Negotiate — Landlords are often flexible on move-in dates or minor upgrades
- Consider winter — Less competition, better deals