Renting in Philadelphia or the suburbs (apartment, how much, townhouse)

[Moving to Philadelphia]

Hello, I am in my late 20s, female, white, foreign-born. I work and study from home, and my income is currently quite low-about 40k. I would like to live in a walkable area with access to basic services (such as a grocery store, a pharmacy, and maybe some type of a park or a coffee shop, just so I can spend some time outside) and have easy access to public transit to visit Center City or other places sometimes. I am trying to save money and am aware of the wage tax in Philadelphia, which is why I am also looking at the suburbs. I do think I might feel isolated if I live by myself in an area with mostly families though, and I would like to be able to make friends my age. I would appreciate any advice, thank you so much.

When are you moving? In the next few weeks
Where are you coming from? Virginia
Why are you moving? Want to live in or close to a big city, in a walkable, reasonably affordable and safe area
Where will you be working? From home
Have you been here yet? No

Will you buy or rent? Rent
If renting, are you looking for an apartment, a townhouse or loft? No preference. How much can you spend? $1000, would like to save as much as possible. Need all the basics (such as a kitchen, a washer/a dryer) and do not want to live with roommates.
Do you prefer hi-rise or walk up? No preference

Do you have a preference of living in a NJ or PA suburb? No preference

Are you married or single? Do you have children? Single, no children
Do you have pets? No
Do you want or need a yard? No preference
Are you keeping a car? No
Do you prefer bustling activity or calm and quiet? Somewhere in between, would like to be able to sleep at night, but not feel very isolated.

What do you want to be closest to? Basic services, shopping and maybe a few restaurants/coffee shops, places to go for a walk, public transit

Do you want to live with people of a similar age, race, religion or sexual preference or do you prefer a diverse neighborhood? Similar age

Favorite Beverage - Craft Beer, wine, water? Water

[edge_ofthe_world]

I'd check out Fairmount if you're okay with a studio. I've found some for 865/mo. However, I wouldn't be expecting laundry in the unit. Maybe coin-op in the building if anything. It's a pretty safe neighborhood. As a 20-yr old female I've walked alone there late at night no problem. Plenty of people just chilling, walking dogs, etc. Lots of trees too. As with anywhere in a big city there's a risk of crime. Just watch your surroundings.

It's a super cute neighborhood of the city, walkable with shops and restaurants. Easy bus ride, or even a 20-ish minute walk to Center City. It's not too busy the further you are from Fairmount Ave., but not far from things either. Only thing I will say is parking's a bit annoying (okay, very tough). But chances are you won't drive much anyways.

If I remember right, you'll need a parking permit in the neighborhood to park for more than a few hours. The parking authority in the city is notoriously strict. There's many stories. Actually, they were on the show Parking Wars lol. I've gotten a ticket before when parking in this neighborhood, lol, but don't have a permit.

[Moving to Philadelphia]

Thank you so much for your response, I appreciate it!

[edge_ofthe_world]

Originally Posted by Moving to Philadelphia

Thank you so much for your response, I appreciate it!

no problem!

[Oh2Me]

Fairmount is a great suggestion as is their little next door neighbor Francisville. Would not live in the suburbs; overpriced and not very practical as a young adult. Coming into the city is time intensive and parking is a pain. Would recommend you live where you’ll have the most opportunities and activities. Welcome to Philadelphia

[Moving to Philadelphia]

Makes sense, thank you so much!