- Insider Scoop:"Chestnut Hill is the most wonderfully involved, supportive neighborhood I could ask for. There’s a true sense of community with neighbors & business owners, and I can barely take a walk around the block without saying 'hi' to someone. My neighbors are friends and look out for each other."Michelle Noonan, Seer Analytics & SEO AssociateWhat We Love:
Chestnut Hill is known as an idyllic neighborhood with history behind it. It hosts a variety of seasonal festivals, many of which are family-oriented. This neighborhood is primarily a mix of families with young kids and more elderly residents.
In Chestnut Hill, you’ll find amenities common to other parts of Philly—restaurants and bars, personable neighbors and pet-friendly parks—along with some uniquely old and elegant landmarks.What It Lacks:Chestnut Hill is on the outskirts of the city, so it might be helpful to have a car if you live there. However, it’s fairly easy to take public transportation, which is very close. In addition, because Chestnut Hill is pretty affluent, it can be somewhat expensive. Be hopeful though, you may find the right spot if you get lucky. - Insider Scoop:"I love the charm and convenience the neighborhood offers. Fairmount is just a short walk into Center City and a stones throw to some of the most historical attractions the neighborhood is known for, including the Eastern State Penitentiary and the Art Museum. Rocky Steps anyone?"Kirsten Malinowski, Seer DesignerWhat We Love:Fairmount has proximity to some great art museums such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. This neighborhood is increasingly drawing a young crowd, taken in by the evolving restaurant scene and green spaces. Just like other areas of Philly, you’ll find top-notch restaurants and bars in Fairmount.What It Lacks:The safety of some areas in Fairmount can be questionable, but certainly not all of them. Another aspect of the neighborhood folks at Seer have disliked is the public transportation and parking. Parking is not impossible, but can be tough. It really helps to have a car if you live in Fairmount. You’ll see a lot of bikers and walkers in this neighborhood.
- Insider Scoop:
"I love living in Fishtown - it’s a uniquely vibrant part of the city. Fishtown is still in the midst of change, and I feel fortunate to live there while it’s still 'up-and-coming.' Entrepreneurs are always moving in, and it’s exciting to see all their creative ideas coming to life."
Steven Sparber, Seer SEO Associate
What We Love:Fishtown is one of many quickly evolving neighborhoods in Philly. Here you’ll find an interesting mix of residents who’ve lived there for generations, alongside artists and entrepreneurs migrating from New York City. Check out Fishtown Spotlights, a blog by one of Seer’s own, to get a more in-depth look at some of these entrepreneurs.
Fishtown has an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, some old staples of the neighborhood, some new, more artisanal innovations. However, one of our favorite things about living in Fishtown is the proximity to Seer. It’s a close walk (10-15 minutes depending on where you live), and at most just one stop on the subway. If you plan to live with roommates, Fishtown is also highly affordable.What It Lacks:Fishtown is still changing as a neighborhood, which creates interesting dynamics between those who have lived in the neighborhood for a long time, and those who are brand new. Some of these dynamics will be more friendly than others. This state of change also translates into some parts of the neighborhood being in renovation, while others are in need of rehabbing.
Beware, Fishtown can be noisy at times. Block parties and kids running through the streets are to be expected. Also, while Fishtown is close to Seer, it’s difficult to catch a cab because the area is densely residential.Top Ten Noteworthy Places: - Insider Scoop:
"Northern Liberties is the perfect mixture of city living without the headache of congestion and parking issues. Tons of great restaurants in the neighborhood and the best happy hour on the planet at El Camino with $12 margarita pitchers."
Chad Gingrich, Seer SEO Associate
What We Love:Northern Liberties is a slightly more gentrified version of Fishtown, and has a party scene that’s in full swing. Of course, you’ll find great dining and food destinations here, but one of its most exciting features is right next door to Seer—the Piazza, which hosts concerts and events the whole city flocks to. “No Libs” has a youthful energy you’ll immediately feel walking through the neighborhood.
Northern Liberties is also fairly affordable for young professionals, especially if you can find some friendly roommates.What It Lacks:Obviously, Northern Liberties' proximity to Seer makes it highly desirable. However, some employees at Seer have said it’s “too close” to work. If you need that separation, take this into consideration.
Another useful tip is to be careful when looking for apartments advertised as being located in Northern Liberties. Some of these are actually located on the north side of Girard Ave, which means they’re really Olde Kensington apartments. Note: A few of us at Seer learned this the hard way!Top Ten Noteworthy Places: - Insider Scoop:
"Old City is so full of history. There’s something new to learn about on almost every street. It is also convenient to get around to different parts of the city, out of the city and to the office."
Amanda Mancuso, Seer PPC Associate
What We Love:Old City is close to a lot of activity. There are a ton of restaurants and bars, but if that’s not your style, Penns Landing is within walking distance, where you can see the Delaware Waterfront. In a city where there’s not a ton of greenery, this is a great spot to retreat to on the weekends with friends.
Old City is also known for its “First Fridays.” On the first Friday of each month, be prepared to see the wealth of art galleries in Old City light up (many of which give out free drinks). Like No Libs, Old City has a vibrant night life.
But free drinks isn’t the only reason we like Old City. It’s right by all the major public transportation systems, like the bus and subway, and Center City is only a short bike ride or walk away.What It Lacks:The only downside to living in such a “hot spot” in Philly is that there always seems to be a lot of people around. If you’re the kind of person who needs their space and can’t fall asleep to street noise, Old City is not the place for you. As we mentioned, there’s an abundance of bars and clubs in this neighborhood.
There also aren’t many grocery stores that are close. There’s a Super Fresh, but if you want to go to Whole Foods or Trader Joes, you’ll have to take a substantial bus/subway ride.
If you're looking for more bang for your buck, you may want to apartment hunt elsewhere. Old City is known for having rent on the pricier side.Top Ten Noteworthy Places: - Insider Scoop:
"Queen Village is one of my favorite areas in Philly because it's quaint and historic, but still easily accessible from other places in the city and it's an easy trip to the office."
Emma Still, Seer SEO Team Lead
What We Love:Queen Village is a colorful, community-oriented neighborhood in South Philadelphia full of old residences and boutiques. While the architecture has a historic feel, the neighborhood maintains a modern spirit. If you’re looking for a quiet place to live, removed from the hustle and bustle of Center City and other overcrowded sections, Queen Village could be the place for you.
The neighborhood’s restaurants and bars are often overlooked and tend to be frequented by “locals”. However, if you’d like to venture out, Center City and Philadelphia’s major attractions are within walkable distance.What It Lacks:During peak hours and late in the evening, looking for parking can take upwards of 20-30 minutes. There is also no direct route to Center City via public transportation, so walking would be the best option if the weather is feeling friendly and you have an extra 30 minutes or more at your leisure. - Insider Scoop:
"One of my favorite things to do is wander aimlessly through Society Hill. It’s filled with these hidden, charming alleys that literally make me fall in love with Philly all over again every time I stumble down one."
Dana Dimitri, Seer Recruiting Associate
What We Love:Society Hill is yet another highly historic area of Philadelphia. This neighborhood is full of green areas, notable architecture and old residential homes. Walk along the quiet cobblestone roads and narrow alleys, and you’ll notice some houses have signs describing how they were built several hundred years ago.What It Lacks:Society Hill is far from big brand commercial shopping, and has a lot of independent shops. This is a good thing! But if you’re looking for the convenience of your corporate retailers come holiday time, it can be a bit of hike to get to them. Also, because Society Hill is residential, parking can sometimes be difficult. - Insider Scoop:
"University City is great for those who like the convenience of living in a city but still want tree-lined streets and a neighborhood feel. Perks include craft beer bar Local 44, trolley lines, and many food trucks!"
Maria Winters DiMarco, Seer Alum
What We Love:As the academic hub of the city, University City is packed with college students and home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. The youthful neighborhood also boasts a great food truck scene and lively nightlife. Due to the proximity to universities, the area is generally safe to live in and draws in a diverse crowd of people.
If you don’t want to feel like you’re in a frat house, there are also quaint brunch spots, restaurants, and bars that don’t draw in the crazy party scene. Center City is also within walkable distance, or only 10 minutes away by subway or trolley.What It Lacks:Rent can actually be pricier here than in other areas of the city. Although prices aren’t as high as apartments downtown, there are nicer neighborhoods that can offer larger living spaces for less. Plus, the landlords normally deal with college kids and may not always be so responsive and accommodating. The younger crowd is not for everyone, and employees with families might consider more homely, residential areas of the city. - Insider Scoop:
"I love living in this neighborhood because I feel like it still has a "neighborhood" feel while being very close to Center City. The close proximity to so many things, as well as the park, makes it a great place to be."
Christina Lalama, Seer SEO Associate
What We Love:Washington Square is home to an epic selection of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, drawing in foodies left and right. It has a neighborly and historic feel, as well as a beautiful park setting. The pleasant neighborhood makes its residents feel safe, even when walking alone at night. Commuting to work is also fairly convenient, since public transportation (buses, trains, subway) are in close proximity.What It Lacks:Rent can get a little pricey in this area. If you don’t have the budget, you could end up in a tiny studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Parking can also be tough, but public transportation is a great alternative. - Insider Scoop:"South Philadelphia has so much personality and spirit. There is nothing like walking through the Italian market on a Saturday, buying fresh produce from the vendors and smelling all of the meats, pastas and cheeses. If you like good food, history, and want to be in the city without feeling the hustle and bustle, South Philly is the place for you."Ali Freezman, Seer SEO AssociateWhat We Love:
Philly is known as a city of neighborhoods, and nowhere is this more obvious than in South Philly. This part of the city is home of the Italian market, an old school marketplace full of cafes, butcher shops and restaurants that have been around since the turn of the century. (The 1900's, not the 2000's.) It doesn’t hurt that almost every corner boasts a family-run deli where you can easily snag a hoagie (not a sub...a hoagie).
If you’re a big sports fan, South Philly is just a subway ride away from all of the major sports complexes so you can be a part of the tailgate in an instant!What It Lacks:There aren’t as many larger stores in South Philly as you would find in Center City or other parts of Philadelphia. Having a car makes this easier, but if you love the charm South Philly offers, the Septa system is a great solution to getting around.
If you have a car, parking can be hell. Expect to drive around for a bit and potentially have difficulty getting your car out of its spot. It's commonly known that South Philly makes their own parking laws; to be blocked in by another car wouldn't be all that uncommon.Top Ten Noteworthy Places: - Insider Scoop:
"Affordability and a Main Street dotted with cafes, breweries, and vintage shops are major draws to living in the Manayunk area. For those who love the outdoors, Manayunk backs up to the extensive Wissahickon Valley Park. For cyclists and hikers, the Schuylkill River Trail is at your doorstep, providing access to Center City (8 mi.) and hundreds of miles of paved cycling and running trails. Manayunk strikes a balance between the bustling of a city and the beauty of nature."
Hillary MacBain, Seer Alum
What We Love:Often referred to as a college-retirement town, the neighborhood is mostly populated by college graduates in their early-mid twenties to early thirties. As you can imagine, it has a great bar scene, especially for the young crowd. The craft beer selection at most bars is also nothing to complain about. You can find large, affordable living spaces that are comparable to the prices of apartments close to the office.What It Lacks:If you’re not into the college bar scene (or hated your college experience and don’t want to relive the memories) then Manayunk is probably not for you. Finding parking after work is going to be a difficult feat, since a lot of parking doesn’t tend to be conveniently located near residential streets and buildings. Traffic is another issue when traveling via I-76, but finding some back-road routes can cut your travel time to 30-40 minutes. - Insider Scoop:
"No matter the season, Rittenhouse is one of the best areas in Philly to spend your free time. From window shopping, to bar hopping, to relaxing in the Square, you'll be surrounded by beautiful buildings, interesting boutiques, and delicious food."
Hannah Cooley, Seer SEO Associate
What We Love:Rittenhouse is a highly sought-after neighborhood in Philadelphia. It’s home to beautiful, old buildings and a wide variety of well-known businesses. Walnut Street is one of the most prominent shopping areas in the city, where you’ll find stores like Madewell, Apple, Zara, and Brooks Brothers. Perhaps the area’s most famous feature is Rittenhouse Square, a large, open park in the middle of the city. You’ll find people coming to Rittenhouse Square to relax on their lunch break, or with their families to enjoy on the weekends.
Rittenhouse is a few blocks away from either 15th or 30th Street Stations, which means Seer is not too far off if you take the subway. Trader Joe’s is also close by to help you with your food shopping needs.What It Lacks:If it’s highly sought-after, that means it can be expensive too. Expect some stores and restaurants to be overpriced, and for the folks sitting outside French bistros to be under the delusion that they’re in Paris. (Note: Philadelphia is not Paris.) You might just want to venture to Rittenhouse when you splurge on the weekends. In addition, because Rittenhouse is such a central shopping destination, parking can be almost unfeasible.
Many have also lamented the high rent in Rittenhouse. However, we’ve heard a few instances where people have found decent deals.Top Ten Noteworthy Places: -
