Moving to Philadelphia (Manor, Bath, Penn: hardwood floors, apartments, appliances)

[SB54]

I'm moving out to Philadelphia this summer and planning on living in University City- specifically looking at an apartment near 42nd and Osage Ave in a building called Webster Manor. Any input on how save this particular area is? I will likely be walking to and from work after dark. Does anybody know anything about the building itself? Is it full of undergrads? I'm 28 and I'll be starting a residency at the U Penn vet school and I'm way past tolerating loud drunken neighbors. Thanks in advance.

[loose cannon]

I support your decision because you will have a purpose there. People who just up and move to Philly or even NY for that matter with no plan are crazy. It;s more romantic and excitinmg to move to a Southern or Western city.

[FindingZen]

I don't know specifically about the residents of that but you will be surrounded by undergrads. You'll only be a few blocks away from the Vet School and the campus in general (@40th Street). You'll be fine if you're used to urban living, notwithstanding average street wisdom and common sense. There are various opinions here about life in University City but IMO things don't become particularly challenging until around 50th Street which is West Philly proper.

I'd check with Penn's off-campus department for some ideas on apartments and houses that cater to grad students.

[orrmobl]

Walking alone at night is never a good idea in that area. Be prepared to find a buddy or bike it, and read up on the area on here and ______ to prepare yourself for the culture shock.

[creamedcorn1]

I am moving out to philly later on next month and I am looking at a place on Christian Street near graduate hospital for $1200/month 1Br+Den/2 Bath. Does that seem reasonable for the area or should I keep looking? I haven't been there to see it yet but according to the owner it has been remodeled with new appliances, hardwood floors, and other amenities. Any advice would help since I am new to the area. Thanks!

[rainrock]

42nd + Osage is quite nice. Now a mile or two away it gets a little sketchy and the hoodrats have been known to occasionally frequent the Penn campus looking for an easy target. Be smart + vigilant and you shouldnt have any problems. Keep a keen eye on your personal items though as you are more likely to get a Lap top, ipod, mountain bike stolen then anything else. Personal items seem to have legs from what I understand from Penn students that I know.

Good luck.

Heres a photo of what the area around 42nd+ Osage is like.



And just to keep it real this is what it can look like a mile or 2 away in Kingsessing part of Philly. Theres quite a contrast to Penn's campus and the area a mile to the south.