need thoughts re: safety around 41st and parrish and other neighborhoods in philly (apartments)

[at-a-crossroads-again]

hi there,

my husband and i have never been to philly but are moving up next week from florida. we're trying to find a place to live from here, so that we can just drive up to our new apartment and unload. i found what seems to be a great place on craigslist, but have been advised against the area.

am looking for thoughts about 41st and parrish. there were no pictures listed in the craigslist ad, but of course the landlords make it sound like a great neighborhood.

my research indicates that it's mildly diverse (we're looking for diversity) and close to parks, restaurants and public transportation. who knows really, without actually being there.

we're also looking at university city, but apparently lots of ads online say that they are in university city, but really arent. other areas of interest are west liberties and south (but not too far south) philly.

any thoughts on 41st and parrish and/or the other areas above are greatly appreciated. your honesty regarding safety, diversity, transportation access, "cool factor" etc are most welcomed. Our rent range is going to have to be capped around $700 max, hopefully with some utilities included for a 1br/1bath.

Peace.

[jeffmsilver]

That's a very tough part of the city, known as Mantua. It is not as safe as other neighborhoods. Maybe look closer to Drexel?

[solibs]

Don't live there.

If you're looking for $700/mo look in South Philly around 15th/16th St. It's far safer and far more diverse and you'll still be close to the subway so it will be easy to get to school.

But you're not going to find those apartments on craigslist. South Philly Review maybe but mostly you'll find "for rent" signs in the windows of houses and fliers in the mexican and asian shops.

Renting in U. City is a rip-off.

ohh, and Mantua is not at all diverse. It's 99% african-american. I've got pretty thick skin and there are very few places in the city where I feel uncomfortable in the middle of the day. That place scares the crap out of me.

[brattpowered]

Here is 41st and Parrish. Google Street View is a great tool.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=e...19354449671455