Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse culture.
From the iconic Liberty Bell to the famous cheesesteaks, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this great city.
But what are the pros and cons of living in Philadelphia?
We’ll explore the good and the bad of living in the City of Brotherly Love, and provide some tips for newcomers.
Contents
Pros
- Great Food: Philadelphia is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. From traditional Italian fare to modern gastropubs, there’s something for everyone.
- Affordable Housing: Philadelphia is one of the most affordable cities in the US, with a median home price of $150,000.
- Great Public Transportation: Philadelphia has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city.
- Cultural Diversity: Philadelphia is a diverse city, with a variety of cultures and ethnicities represented.
- Historic Sites: Philadelphia is home to many historic sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Great Parks: Philadelphia has many parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Friendly People: Philadelphia is known for its friendly people, who are always willing to help out a newcomer.
- Excellent Education: Philadelphia is home to many excellent universities and colleges, making it a great place to pursue higher education.
- Job Opportunities: Philadelphia is a great place to find a job, with many companies based in the city.
Cons
- High Crime Rate: Philadelphia has a high crime rate, making it important to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Traffic Congestion: Philadelphia has some of the worst traffic congestion in the US, making it difficult to get around the city.
- Poor Air Quality: Philadelphia has poor air quality, due to its proximity to industrial areas.
- High Taxes: Philadelphia has some of the highest taxes in the US, making it difficult to make ends meet.
- Poor Public Schools: Philadelphia’s public schools are notoriously poor, making it important to research private school options.
- Lack of Parking: Parking in Philadelphia can be difficult, as many streets are narrow and there are few parking garages.
- High Cost of Living: Philadelphia has a high cost of living, making it difficult to make ends meet.
- Poor Public Services: Philadelphia’s public services, such as trash collection and street cleaning, are notoriously poor.
- Poor Weather: Philadelphia has a reputation for having cold, wet winters and hot, humid summers.
5 Unique Tips for Newcomers
1. Get to know your neighbors
Philadelphia is a friendly city, and getting to know your neighbors can help you feel more at home.
2. Learn the public transportation system
Philadelphia’s public transportation system can be confusing, so take the time to learn it.
3. Take advantage of the parks
Philadelphia has many parks and green spaces, so take advantage of them to relax and enjoy nature.
4. Explore the city
Philadelphia is full of interesting places to explore, so take the time to explore the city.
5. Join a local community group
Philadelphia has many community groups, so take the time to join one and meet new people.
Pros and Cons of Living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Cons of Living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Great Food | High Crime Rate |
| Affordable Housing | Traffic Congestion |
| Great Public Transportation | Poor Air Quality |
| Cultural Diversity | High Taxes |
| Historic Sites | Poor Public Schools |
| Great Parks | Lack of Parking |
| Friendly People | High Cost of Living |
| Excellent Education | Poor Public Services |
| Job Opportunities | Poor Weather |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philadelphia a safe city?
Philadelphia has a high crime rate, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.
However, there are many safe neighborhoods in the city.
What is the cost of living in Philadelphia?
The cost of living in Philadelphia is high, with a median home price of $150,000.
What is the public transportation like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city.
What is the weather like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has cold, wet winters and hot, humid summers.
Are there any good schools in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to many excellent universities and colleges, making it a great place to pursue higher education.
Is there a lot of traffic in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has some of the worst traffic congestion in the US, making it difficult to get around the city.
Are there any parks in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has many parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
What is the job market like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a great place to find a job, with many companies based in the city.
What is the cultural diversity like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a diverse city, with a variety of cultures and ethnicities represented.