What Is It Like Living in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a population of 2.5 million, which makes it the sixth-most populated city in the United States. It is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the heart of the entire Delaware Valley metro area. With its vibrant restaurant and cultural scenes, affordable housing, and convenient public transportation system, the city is a great place to live.

Climate

Philadelphia’s climate is unique, with slightly cooler summers and mild winters. Overall, temperatures are some of the most manageable in the nation, with averages reaching the teens during the coldest days of winter and around 70 degrees during the warmest days of summer. The city does receive more annual rainfall than other cities, so umbrellas (or a raincoat!) are a must for living in Philadelphia.

Cost of Living

Philadelphia’s cost of living is fairly affordable compared to other large cities in the United States. Although rent averages out to around $1,343 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,630 for a two-bedroom apartment, rent prices can vary based on neighborhood and location. According to RentJungle, some popular neighborhoods like University City and Chestnut Hill have rent prices slightly above the average while Center City and Old City tend to be slightly cheaper.

Food and Entertainment

Philadelphia is famous for its classic cheesesteaks, as well as its wide array of local restaurants such as Amada, Talula’s Garden, and Zahav. The city also has an impressive cultural scene with museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and attractions like South Street, Washington Square, and Clark Park. Additionally, the city offers an abundance of live music venues – from classic jazz clubs to larger arenas featuring your favorite artists – perfect for when the nightlife scene calls.

Transportation

When it comes to getting around Philadelphia, public transportation is the way to go. SEPTA, which stands for Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, covers subways, buses, regional rails and trolleys. There are also ride-sharing services like Uber available in the city. Additionally, many Philadelphians opt for walking or biking for errands and commutes. Fueling this trend is Philly’s commitment to making major improvements to their walking and biking infrastructure throughout the entire city.

Overall, living in Philadelphia can best be described as exciting, diverse and full of culture. From its thriving culinary scene to its vibrant entertainment districts – Philadelphia offers something for everyone’s taste and budget. If you’re looking to live in a metropolitan area that isn’t too far away from everyday amenities – Philadelphia might be the place that fits your needs.

An Insider’s Guide to Living in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. Living in Philadelphia means you will have plenty of activities and attractions to explore. In this guide, we’ll show you the best spots to visit, dine, and experience Philadelphia like a local.

Local Attractions

Philadelphia is a city rich in history and has many sites worth visiting. The Independence National Historical Park is a must-visit place, where you can see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

You can also explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to over 240,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and more. A trip to Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country, is a must for the foodies visiting Philadelphia.

For sports enthusiasts, Philadelphia has the Lincoln Financial Field, Citizens Bank Park, and the Wells Fargo Center, where you can catch games of the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers, respectively.

Dining Spots

Philadelphia has an impressive food scene. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Philly Cheesesteak or want to try something new, Philadelphia has got you covered.

Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks are two iconic places to try the famous Philly Cheesesteak. Zahav offers a contemporary take on Middle Eastern cuisine, while Vedge is a vegan restaurant known for its outstanding flavors. For a sophisticated night out, try Morimoto, a Japanese restaurant specializing in sushi. And those who love pizza should hit up Pizzeria Beddia for some mouth-watering pies.

Cultural Experiences

Philadelphia has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene. There are plenty of museums and cultural institutions to visit, such as the African American Museum in Philadelphia, the Penn Museum, and the Franklin Institute, a science museum.

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, while the Academy of Music showcases Broadway performances. If you’re into live music, the Fillmore Philadelphia is an excellent spot, hosting live concerts in an intimate setting. The Magic Gardens is another place that you can’t miss – it’s a museum and gallery rather than an outdoor garden, showcasing the work of Isaiah Zagar.

Local History

Philadelphia has played a crucial role in American history and has many historical sites to explore. The Betsy Ross House is where the first American flag was supposedly sewn, while the Benjamin Franklin Museum showcases the life and work of one of America’s founding fathers.

The Eastern State Penitentiary, a prison that once housed criminals from Al Capone to Slick Willie Sutton, is now a National Historic Landmark that you can explore. The Philadelphia City Hall, the world’s tallest masonry building, is also an architectural landmark worth visiting.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for some unique experiences that most tourists don’t know about, head to the Mutter Museum, a medical museum showcasing preserved human specimens. Venture through Wissahickon Valley Park, a beautiful natural park just outside the city.

For a real blast from the past, visit the Franklin Fountain, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that serves up frozen treats just like they did in the early 1900s. And lastly, the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is a place where you can explore the life and work of the famous author, who lived briefly in Philadelphia.

In conclusion, Philadelphia is a city that has something for everyone, from history to culture to dining and more. Living in Philadelphia is an experience unlike any other, and you’re guaranteed to discover something amazing every time you visit.