At the Admitted Students Day this past weekend, I had multiple prospective students ask me about where to live in Philly and how off-campus housing worked for graduate students. I want to provide as much information about graduate housing as I can, but I am also not an expert in off-campus housing. I would recommend checking out Penn's Off-Campus Housing website for more extensive information (https://offcampushousing.upenn.edu).
On-Campus Housing - Sansom Place
In terms of on-campus housing, graduate students can live in Sansom Place East & West. The majority of residents at Sansom are graduate students (65%), but some undergraduate students also reside there. The different housing options include single rooms, one-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments, with a few three-bedroom apartments. Sansom is located on Penn's campus, so it's a really quick walk to GSE. The Sansom's website gives a substantial amount of information, such as rent rates, room layouts, etc. Visit this website for more info on Sansom Place: http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/sansom-place/
Off-Campus Housing - many different neighborhoods
http://www.visitphilly.com/philadelphia-neighborhoods/
phillyguide.seerinteractive.com/
Here are the areas I'm more familiar with. The links above contain more information about the different neighborhoods, and can give you more details about each of the neighborhoods in Philly.
University City
The neighborhood surrounding the Penn and Drexel campuses is called University City. It's located across the river from Center City (downtown Philadelphia), and a lot of students live in this area. There are plenty of housing options, from high-rise apartment buildings to smaller brownstones. The rent tends to get cheaper as you get farther from campus, and University City is thought to have slightly lower rents than the Center City area. However, some complexes have prices that are comparable to rents in Center City. This tends to be at the newly built apartment buildings close to Penn's campus. I know many classmates are very happy living in University City, although some don't always love the constant presence of undergraduate neighbors.
Center City - Rittenhouse, Graduate Hospital, Fitler Square, Washington Square West
Rittenhouse
I live in Rittenhouse, and I really love the convenience and vitality of the area, not to mention the proximity to Rittenhouse Square Park. There are so many different housing options in this area: high-rise apartment buildings, single-family brownstones, brownstone apartments, mid-rise complexes, condos, etc. The rent is thought to be more expensive in the Rittenhouse area, likely because it is one of the most populated neighborhoods and it boasts a close proximity to shopping, dining, the park, and the Schuykill River trail. The quality and number of restaurants and bars is insurmountable. I feel like there is a large young professional presence in Rittenhouse, though you will also find many families and adults of all ages. One issue I have found with Rittenhouse is the lack of parking - street parking is limited and parking in a garage comes at a monthly premium. Regardless, I highly recommend living near Rittenhouse Square Park for any dog owners or dog lovers - there is always an abundance of dogs walking in the park or on the Schuykill trail.
Graduate Hospital
South of Rittenhouse is the Grad Hospital neighborhood, located around one of Penn's hospitals. Most of the housing options in Grad Hospital are brownstone apartments, single-family houses or brownstones, or smaller apartment complexes. From what I've heard, the rent in Grad Hospital is a little more reasonable than the Rittenhouse area, making it very popular with graduate students and young professionals. The neighborhood definitely has a more residential vibe, but it is said to have a very homey feel and friendly atmosphere. There are bunch of great restaurants and bars in the area as well. Grad Hospital feels a bit more isolated from the hustle & bustle of Center City, making it very suitable for people looking for a more residential neighborhood.
Washington Square West
I love the Washington Square, which is more secluded and less crowded than the Rittenhouse Square Park, but equally as beautiful. There are a good number of phenomenal (i.e. the best) restaurants and bars in Washington Square West, especially in the area known as the Gayborhood. The Pennsylvania Hospital and the Jefferson Hospital & Medical School is in this neighborhood, so I know a good number of medical students who live in the area. The jewelry district is also located in Washington Square West, and the neighborhood is also very close to the Liberty Bell attractions.
South Street
South Street is a popular area because it was recently revitalized and now boasts some great restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. I have a few classmates who live around South Street and really love the vibrant atmosphere and friendly neighborhood. One popular attraction near South Street is Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, which is really beautiful and surprising. There are multiple neighborhoods that contain South Street, but it maintains its appeal throughout the various areas.
Manayunk
This town is farther from campus (about 8 miles), and most students living in Manayunk either drive or take a train to commute to campus. Although I've never visited, I've learned that students like to live here because of the very reasonable rent prices and younger atmosphere. The town is also supposed to have some great bars and restaurants. That being said, I've also heard it is a popular neighborhood with undergraduates from St. Joe's University.
There are so many other options for where to live in Philadelphia, like Old City or the Museum District. Each neighborhood has its charm and character, and all have many exciting things to offer its residents. In beginning your housing search, I'd recommend determining what you're looking for in an apartment, condo, or house. Prioritize your housing needs and desires, and try to find something that would offer you the best fit for what you're looking for. With so many resources available on the internet, you really don't need to hire a realtor or even be in Philadelphia to find a wonderful home. Happy hunting!
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