When you’re moving to a new place, you definitely want to know what you’re getting yourself into.

That’s why we’ve researched the best places to live in Philadelphia, so you don’t have to. You’ve no doubt seen our Philadelphia City Guide, which includes a short section on a few of Philadelphia’s most popular neighborhoods.

This list and our “Up and Coming Neighborhoods in Philadelphia,” list is a more in-depth neighborhood guide meant to examine what it’s like living in each of these highlighted areas, with links to popular destinations, as well as available houses for sale and apartments for rent (and by the way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—movers in Philadelphia and one of the top rated movers in Philadelphia).

 

The 6 Best Places to Live in Philadelphia Bellhop Blog

A Little About Philadelphia Neighborhoods

Spotted amidst Philadelphia’s metropolitan skyscrapers, historic parks, renowned art museums, and music venues are many beautiful, artsy residential neighborhoods. Many, like Rittenhouse and Washington Square, have been planned according to William Penn’s original design from the late 1600s: neighborhoods built around green spaces. And though Philly is brimming with blocks of 18th and 19th-century row homes, pockets of the city maintain a surprisingly suburban feel. 

So, whether you and your family are hoping for a historic home butted up against tight, bustling streets with only-locally-known restaurants and shops around the corner, a dignified brick home snug against Independence National Park, or a speckled stone cottage on a grassy lawn, you’ll find a home in Philly. Check out our listing below of the best places to live in Philadelphia.

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FITLER SQUARE

Fitler Square’s streets are lined with grandeur homes that feature tall wooden doors and elegantly carved concrete and stone framing around the windows and roofline. On a corner, the beautiful Trinity Memorial Church with its large stone walls and intricate gothic interior accents the surrounding dark brick homes. 

Despite its elegance, Fitler Square certainly does not feel unapproachable. Mom’s push strollers and joggers move down leaf-littered sidewalks. And a little crowd gathers at the neighborhood park where the weekend farmers market spreads its tables with knobbly apples and sweet potatoes. Curious about what’s happening in our first choice for the best places to live in Philadelphia? Keep reading.

What’s Happening Fitler Square

Even in this small neighborhood, Fitler Square offers over a dozen places to pop in and enjoy some local food and drinks. Try out some Asian cuisine at Tsuki Sushi or My Thai. Sip a breve at Cafe Lutecia, or visit Honey’s Sit N’ Eat and sample dishes like rabbit gumbo, slow-cooked briskets, or pumpkin pancakes. 

A few blocks over on 18th street, The Dandelion serves sophisticated British pub cuisine along with a large selection of wines, beers, cask ales, and seasonally spiced cocktails. And the neighborhood is settled against Schuylkill River Park, which includes playgrounds, grassy lawns, and paths for walking, biking, and running. 

Schools in Fitler Square

Schools in the area include The Philadelphia School and The City School at Rittenhouse among others.

Homes in Fitler Square

Fitler Square’s streets are lined with beautiful and large homes with a median value of around $560k and rental spaces that hit about $1300/month. Here are some of the current houses for sale and homes for rent in the area.

GRADUATE HOSPITAL

Graduate Hospital has had a recent resurgence in popularity among Philly-dwellers. It’s approachable, homey, and exudes that quirky, artsy Philly charm. Many young professionals have moved to the area and enjoy this clean, kid-friendly corner of the city.

What’s Happening in Graduate Hospital

Locals love grabbing a bite to eat at Lazaro’s Pizza House. The Sidecar Bar & Grille. Govinda’s serves vegetarian and vegan dishes. And The Igloo scoops tasty frozen yogurts like cake batter and orange cream for their sweet-toothed visitors.

Locals flock to attend the annual 40-year traditional event, Odunde Festival, which celebrates African culture, as well as their Bloktoberfest with food, drinks, and outdoor music on South Street West. Pockets of green at Julian Abele Park, Chew Playground, Marian Anderson Park, and the Schuylkill River Park let residents and their families stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. 

Schools in Graduate Hospital

Schools in the area include Chester A. Arthur School, Edwin M. Stanton School, and Universal Institute Charter School among others.

Homes in Graduate Hospital

Graduate Hospital’s pretty homes sit shoulder to shoulder down intimate streets and tree-lined brick alleys. Many houses sell for a little under $400k, and monthly rent hits a little above $1000. Here are some of the houses for sale and homes for rent in the area. 

OLD CITY

Known as America’s most historic square mile, this neighborhood sits close to the inner-city without the in-the-city feel. With its reasonable cost of living, proximity to restaurants, bars, shops, cafes, and local events, Old City has become a place that pleases its diverse residents. Many young adults find themselves staying in Old City and transitioning easily into a more established stage of life without having to give up their favorite pubs and clubs.

What’s Happening in Old City

Pick up an egg sandwich and a cup of small-batch coffee, a specialty meat and cheese sandwich made with house-baked bread, or a bowl of handmade pasta and a glass of wine at High Street on Market. This local treasure gives Philadelphians a small taste of Europe and serves three simple meals a day featuring their artisanal bread and seasonal ingredients. 

Another of Old City’s neighborhood gems is the Arden Theatre. This theater has been entertaining the local region with professional performances of theatrical nonfictions, musicals, and dramas. Since its opening in 1995, the Arden has received over 250 nominations and over 50 awards. 

Schools in Old City

Schools in the area include General George A. McCall and Constitution High School among others.

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Homes in Old City

Old City’s homes range in size, style, and price, though you’ll find many beautiful homes with historic architectural features. Shop through Old City’s wide range of houses for sale and homes for rent.

BELLA VISTA

Bella Vista has been rated by many sweeping surveys of the city as one of the best neighborhoods to live in. Beautiful homes, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks are just a few of the draws that are bringing many families to the area. Crime rates are lower in this neighborhood, and locals can walk to many of Philly’s center-city destinations. 

What’s Happening in Bella Vista

Philly’s indoor Italian Market sprawls with dozens of small food shops and restaurants and serves a plethora of authentic tastes like hot cheesesteaks and flakey baklava. Other favorite eateries include Hungry Pigeon and Kanella Grill. One of Philly’s most known and loved corners is the Magic Gardens – made up of winding paths and alleyways of a sparkling, intricate mosaic. Families also gather at the Palumbo Recreation Center and Sacks Playground. 

Schools in Bella Vista

Schools in the area include George W Nebinger School, Academy at Palumbo, and Andrew Jackson School among others.

Homes in Bella Vista

Bella Vista’s bright clean townhouses are shaded by young trees that stretch along wide sidewalks. Many locals find a home for around $350k and rent for around $1400/month. Here are some of the current houses for sale and homes for rent in the area.

CHESTNUT HILL

Chestnut Hill sits a bit further from the center city and offers a more suburban feel in the midst of Philly’s city streets. A further commute to inner-city jobs? Yes. But locals don’t seem tempted to switch their location for this convenience. Throughout Chestnut Hill, stone homes sit amidst grassy lawns, and the neighborhood is surrounded by outdoorsy destinations—a treasure for city dwellers. 

What’s Happening in Chestnut Hill

Chestnut Hill residents enjoy delicious Asian cuisine from Thai Kuu Restaurant, Hokka Hokka Japanese Restaurant, and Osaka Restaurant. CinCin Restaurant provides locals with a fine-dining experience and tasty meals with a French flair. And Chestnut Grill serves delicious dishes like crispy fried calamari over a sweet and spicy fruit chili sauce and grilled garlic and rosemary lamb chops with Spanish risotto.

Local brews can be found at the Chestnut Hill Brewing Company and McNally’s Tavern. Bordering Chestnut Hill to the west, the Wissahickon Valley Park provides residents with miles of hiking trails, paved biking trails, and acres of greenery. Locals also love their leisurely walks through the Morris Arboretum botanical gardens dotted with artistic pieces.

Schools in Chestnut Hill

Schools in the area include Springside Chestnut Hill Academy and The Crefeld School among others.

Homes in Chestnut Hill

Houses vary from cozy cottages to sprawling mansions and the quiet streets are lined and shaded by elegant trees. Check out what’s available for renting and buying in the area.

SPRUCE HILL

Large Victorian homes line these tree-framed streets. And scattered throughout the neighborhood are hopping bars, restaurants, and cafes. Crime rates are lower here, rent is cheap. And homes sell like soft pretzels in this upcoming neighborhood.

What’s Happening in Spruce Hill

You’ll find residents crowding the Local 44 and City Tap House for some tasty brews. Metropolitan Bakery & Cafe is known for its housemade granola & artisan bread. And Saad’s offers a delicious menu of Middle Eastern cuisine.

The neighborhood of Spruce Hill is surrounded by small parks, playgrounds, and rec centers. Locals make their kiddo’s days by bringing them to Clark Park, Lee Park, Kaskey Park, or the 48th Woodland Playground. 

A few blocks away from the neighborhood, locals gather to watch soccer, hockey, or lacrosse at the Vidas Athletic Complex. The Woodlands invites visitors to stroll along its 54-acres of a green oasis. And the community gathers for a host of outdoor events and programs at the Kingsessing Rec Center.

Schools in Spruce Hill

Schools in the area include The City School and Paul Robeson High School among others. 

Homes in Spruce Hill

Spruce Hill has a lot of large Victorian-style homes that have been split into multiple apartments. And about a quarter of residents here are homeowners. Here are some of the current houses for sale and homes for rent in the area. 

There you have it: the 6 best places to live in Philadelphia!

We hope this guide to the best places to live in Philadelphia helpful, and if you decide to take the plunge, don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends here at Bellhop. As we said, we coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Philadelphia, and we would love to help.

Harrison Stevens