Neighborhoods South of South St? (Penn: rental, homes, living)

[IceNine]

In anticipation of a move to Philly, I've been browsing Craigslist for apts in Center City. It seems that rent goes down quite a bit to the south of South Street. I assume that is due to a decline in neighborhood. Can anyone tell me where an approximate line would be where neighborhoods become less appealing as you move towards the south from Suburban Station?

Also, it seems the same happens as you go north of Suburban Station. Can anyone tell me how far to the north of Suburban Station you would go until neighborhoods begin to decline?

[3littlerascals]

Are you set on living right near center city? Just my opinion - but I find it hard to tell what's a good/bad neighborhood anymore in Philly. I grew up there and am still there often to visit my parents and friends who still live there. Areas that were once horrible are now being revitalized and homes are selling for $300K and up. But they seem to be in little pockets and are still surrounded by less desireable areas. You'd probably do best with a rental agent. If you don't mind the commute - there are still nice areas in the Northeast part of the city. That are very convenient to public transportation that can get you into the city fairly quickly. An example - a friend of mine rents a home in zip 19149. She drives to Bridge and Pratt and takes the elevated train to work. Her drive to B&P is 10 minutes and it takes her another 20 minutes on the train to get to 5th and Market (on the express train). Another friend of mine is a RE agent in the area. PM me if you would like her contact info. I'm sure she would be of assistance to you.
Good luck.

[IceNine]

I don't want to live in one of the outlying areas because I like urban life and all that it offers. I don't really need a lot of living space, and could even put up with a studio. I'll be working very near suburban station and would be happy if I could ride a bike or take a scooter to work, ideally not more than 10 minutes away. Everything I have read about Philly makes me believe that I would be very happy living downtown near Rittenhouse, Bella Vista, Queen Village or similar areas.

I have nothing against those that like suburbia, but that isn't my cup of tea, not that I am saying that NE Philly = suburbia.

[rainrock]

Originally Posted by IceNine

I'll be working very near suburban station and would be happy if I could ride a bike or take a scooter to work, ideally not more than 10 minutes away. Everything I have read about Philly makes me believe that I would be very happy living downtown near Rittenhouse, Bella Vista, Queen Village or similar areas.

I have nothing against those that like suburbia, but that isn't my cup of tea, not that I am saying that NE Philly = suburbia.

Bella Vista and Queens Village would be ideal if you can find something in your price range.. I'm always impressed with the Passyunk Square area, everytime we're at pats or genos and walk around, that neighborhood looks very livable. I'm in South Philly a couple times a week and the East side of Broad seems to be in much better shape than the west side of Broad. Extreme South Philly around the Stadiums and Packer Park is healthy and very safe.

Pennsport which is the extreme eastern side of lower south philly is also a very stable neighborhood.