South Philadelphia is one of the city's most diverse and unique areas. Home to Philly's sports complex, the most famous cheesesteak spots, and the renowned Italian Market, South Philly boasts attractions for both tourists and locals alike. Within the 9.7 sq. mile region, you'll find a plethora of eccentric neighborhoods, each with its own culture and character.
While South Philly is an attractive option for those looking to rent in the city, it can be challenging to decide which neighborhood is right for you. Keep reading for some tips on apartment hunting in this highly sought-after area!
Most residents define South Philadelphia as the section of the city bounded by South Street to the north, the Delaware River to the east and south, and the Schuylkill River to the west. This city sub-section grew rapidly in the mid-1800s to accommodate the large influx of immigrants, mainly arriving from Italy and Ireland. To this day, South Philly remains a diverse community, including large Italian, Vietnamese, Irish, and Latino populations.
While this area is largely residential, there certainly isn't a lack of things to do. Many neighborhoods are bustling with local shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and parks. Residents opt to rent in South Philly rather than neighborhoods like Center City due to lower cost of living, less noise, and a lower population density.
While you might not be familiar with the name "Passyunk Square," you're likely aware of its two most popular attractions: Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks. While these might be top destinations for tourists, the local food scene is just as appealing. Passyunk Square is home to a diverse assortment of Italian, Vietnamese, and Mexican restaurants, making it an excellent option for foodies.
Besides the abundance of eateries, locals enjoy Passyunk for its low crime rate and tight-knit community feel. The neighborhood consists mainly of low-rise single-family and small multi-family units, making it an excellent option for small families and young professionals.
Point Breeze has quickly become one of the hottest areas in South Philly. While the neighborhood isn't as established as others, it does have some of the most affordable rent prices in the city.
Over the past decade, there's been a tremendous amount of new homes built in this area. These newly constructed buildings are a great opportunity for renters to experience contemporary, luxury amenities at the most affordable price.
Plus, if you're someone who has an eye for art, there are some fantastic murals scattered around Point Breeze for you to find!
The beautiful Bella Vista neighborhood perfectly connects Center City and South Philly. The main attraction is the famous 9th Street Italian Market, the oldest operational open-air market of its kind. Here, you'll find a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as unique local shops and boutiques.
While this neighborhood has slightly higher rent prices than its other South Philly counterparts, it's one of the most bustling neighborhoods in the city, making it an excellent choice for those who love being out-and-about.
Located on the southwest edge of the Schuylkill River, Grays Ferry has seen rapid growth over the last 5-10 years. In fact, it's been considered one of the top zip codes in the nation for house flipping.
If you're someone who enjoys running or jogging around the city, this might be a great fit for you as you'll have easy access to the Schuylkill River Walk. This, combined with reasonable rent prices, makes Grays Ferry a top contender for renters and homeowners alike.
There are a few key things you should keep in mind when choosing the right neighborhood for you.
The most obvious factor to consider is your budget. If you want something more affordable with newer renovation, you might think about looking in more up-and-coming neighborhoods like Grays Ferry and Point Breeze.
If you want something historical and are willing to pay a higher monthly rent, the neighborhoods located around South Street, like Bella Vista, might be your best option.
Another critical factor is how you get around. Do you have a car, or do you need access to public transportation? Some neighborhoods are a parking nightmare, so make sure you're keeping this in mind if street parking is something you'll need. The closer to Center City, the harder it is to park.
If you don't want to be bothered by noisy bar patrons late at night, you should consider staying away from high-traffic areas like Passyunk Square. Many buildings are tucked away in more residential areas, which might be a good option for those who dont frequent bars or restaurants often.
Conclusion
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