work in Downingtown, where to live? single female who likes to have fun (Chester: lawyer)

[lulutoPA]

I got a job in Downingtown. Can anyone recommend a cool, hip area to live that is close to Philly? (Because I suppose all the fun is in Philly, or elsewhere?)

Here are some things to consider:

1. Minimal commuting distance or easy commute
2. I'm single female in my mid 20's. I would prefer an area that more single people as oppose to an area with mostly families and kids.
3. Close to shopping areas, malls, golf courses.

Hope it's not too much to ask. Thank you so much for any information you can provide.

[AJ2179]

I'm in a similar situation. In my 20's male looking at possible relocation to Philly from TN. Everywhere I've looked says Manayunk is a great place for young professionals with a good bar scene, shopping, convenient to Center City. Plus if you check out a map there is a golf course close (not sure what quality). I'm trying to decide on an apt. complex or building in the area, so any help with that would be appreciated. I've been looking at apartments.com and 4wallsinphilly.com, I've checked out Craigslist but not knowing the area I'm a little apprehensive. I would like something that's 1 BR convenient to the train to Center City, gym, pool would be great, off street parking and under $1000. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

[rainrock]

Originally Posted by lulutoPA

I got a job in Downingtown. Can anyone recommend a cool, hip area to live that is close to Philly? (Because I suppose all the fun is in Philly, or elsewhere?)

Here are some things to consider:

1. Minimal commuting distance or easy commute
2. I'm single female in my mid 20's. I would prefer an area that more single people as oppose to an area with mostly families and kids.
3. Close to shopping areas, malls, golf courses.

Hope it's not too much to ask. Thank you so much for any information you can provide.

West Chester is a cool little town about 7 miles from Downingtown. WC is a college town and the county seat of Chester County so there are lots of college students and young professionals lawyers, business types etc. Some great bars,restaurants and small shops etc.. There are some nice apt complexes/townhomes on Rt 3 in neighboring West Goshen and Westtown.

King of Prussia might be another option. This area is a little more suburban sprawl oriented but its centrally located. fairly easy access to Downingtown,West Chester,Conshohocken,Mainline,manayunk,Chestnut Hill, and Center City Philly.

Good luck.

[rainrock]

Originally Posted by AJ2179

I'm in a similar situation. In my 20's male looking at possible relocation to Philly from TN. Everywhere I've looked says Manayunk is a great place for young professionals with a good bar scene, shopping, convenient to Center City. Plus if you check out a map there is a golf course close (not sure what quality). I'm trying to decide on an apt. complex or building in the area, so any help with that would be appreciated. I've been looking at apartments.com and 4wallsinphilly.com, I've checked out Craigslist but not knowing the area I'm a little apprehensive. I would like something that's 1 BR convenient to the train to Center City, gym, pool would be great, off street parking and under $1000. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

Manayunk isnt a bad option especially if you can get into one of the newer apartments along the river which has private parking.Manayunk has a different vibe to it as its an old milltown that has transformed itself from city neighborhood into a gentrifying hip area.Weekends can get a little congested and noisy. There is an outstanding bike/jogging trail nearby that can take you in any of 3 directions-Center City-Chestnut Hill and Valley Forge.

Its one of Phillys safer neighborhoods, but its very dense so if you dont like urban spaces you might be better off on the other side of the river and up the hill to City Line/ Mainline.Or perhaps the other direction to Chestnut Hill/Mount Airy.

My sterotype of Tn. would be equivalent to our far suburbs like Downingtown and West Chester. If possible you might be advised to take a trip beforehand to see the different neighborhoods/towns. The big eastern cities tend to cause a pretty good dose of culture shock for most outsiders.

Good luck

[JerzBoy]

I second rainrock's suggestion of West Chester. The commute to Downingtown is a breeze and it has a pretty decent bar scene. Make sure to check out Iron Hill Brewery as well Kildare's Irish Pub. Lots of college kids and young professionals in WC.

[lulutoPA]

Thank you everyone for you input! I really really appreciate it! i felt really lost before and now have a clearer idea