What areas should be avoided? (Philadelphia, Springfield: apartment, how much, houses)

[EllaGirl]

I will be relocating to the Philadelphia area soon, and have heard that it can be a dangerous town. I realize that the more dangerous places are probably concentrated, but are there areas that you would not recommend walking around at night alone? As it seems parking is an issue in the city, are there areas that are prone to car break-in's? How about center city, or Mt. airy? I am a single woman with a dog, and i don't want to have to be hyper-vigilant when I walk her.

[Tone509]

Like any larger city, Philly has its issues with crime, but despite the publicity there are plenty of areas where one can feel comfortable.

Assuming you plan to live in the city limits, Center City and Mt. Airy would be very good choices. Over 100,000 people live downtown (Center City) and it's the cultural and social hub of the city. The Washington Square West or Rittenhouse Square areas may be ideal for your dog to walk around their namesake parks. Over in the NW part of the city, Mt. Airy is a more laid-back neighborhood known for its diversity. Other sections of town to consider would include East Falls, Chestnut Hill, Manayunk, the Far Northeast, (aka "the concrete suburb"), far South Philly, Powelton Village and University City.

North Philly is arguably the most challenged area of the city. Realtors sometimes blur the definition of where University City ends and the rest of West Philly begins; depending on how much you are willing/able to embrace urban living, staying east of 50th Street and between Spruce (north) and Springfield (south) would be recommended.

Originally Posted by EllaGirl

I will be relocating to the Philadelphia area soon, and have heard that it can be a dangerous town. I realize that the more dangerous places are probably concentrated, but are there areas that you would not recommend walking around at night alone? As it seems parking is an issue in the city, are there areas that are prone to car break-in's? How about center city, or Mt. airy? I am a single woman with a dog, and i don't want to have to be hyper-vigilant when I walk her.

[loose cannon]

West, North, and even Northeast Philly are no nos. The Northeast is so overrated. It's just as much of a slum as the other areas. Center City and University City by Drexel and Penn are good but even so, do not walk your dog after 10. If you go out at night to the various bars and restaraunts be sure you are with a group of people.

[juniperbleu]

West Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill are nice, safe, and would be good for a dog (even in an apartment or rowhouse there are parks, trees, grass, etc.). Without knowing the area better, I'd just play it safe and steer clear of North and West Philly. NE is fine, I've just always liked other areas of the city much better.

[newmarlig]

Queen Village or Bella Vista would be good. Both are just south of center city (a short walk away) and have dog parks. Both are safe (using common sense).

[leighland]

Originally Posted by loose cannon

West, North, and even Northeast Philly are no nos. The Northeast is so overrated..

The Northeast is awesome. I just drove through Rhawnhurst, Fox Chase etc.. last week with a local and LOVED it;very safe, very Catholic, lots of ethnic restaurants and shops (Brazillians!), etc. But if you are single, I think you'll be bored. Its definitely more a family, middle class area.

[EllaGirl]

Thanks everyone! I am okay with family areas- as a single girl it adds to my feelings of security. I know it seems crazy, but as long as I can commute into the city for a great dinner, etc. I am good.

[hollygolightly]

Washington Square West would be perfect for you. I lived in that area for several years, and we always enjoyed going to Seger Dog Park, just a block away from South Street. The neighborhood is safe, and close to all amenities. I certainly never had any problems there regarding security; I highly recommend Washington Square West, for both you and your dog!

[loose cannon]

Stay out of Grays Ferry! My friend accidentally made a wrong turn when were going north on the Schukyll and we ended up in Grays Ferry. It was a dilapidated pit. He was in the first Desert Storm Iraq War in the early 90's and he said the abandoned condemned houses reminded him of a war zone when was stationed there.