Living arrangements while at U of Penn (Philadelphia, Ardmore: apartment complexes, home)

[SassySean]

My question for you is about where I might live while attending the Univ of Penn School of Nursing.

I am looking for the safest enviornment possible for a middle-aged single female with a reasonable cost of living. I am from Flint MI, so I’m not careless or scary. I would like to live in close proximity to a freeway, with a local area - 20 mile commute to school. Of course closer is better, but safety is first. I will have a car.


Information that you might have about area hospitals would also be helpful.

I'm really looking for information so that I can start my investigation of the area. The more suggestions I get the better it will be.

Thanks so much for your help.

[solibs]

Philadelphia is a lot more like Chicago than it is like Detroit. Keep that in mind when thinking about safety, how to get around, and what to expect living here.

The only expressway that runs through West Philly is I-76. The traffic is usually terrible and there's almost always roadwork going on.

When you finally get to University City the traffic gets worse and parking is expensive.

If I were you I would look in the Roxborough, East Falls, Wissahickon or Mt. Airy sections of the City and try to get close to a train station or the Route 9 bus (which runs up the expressway then up Ridge Ave. through Roxborough). All the trains as well as the 9 stop at 30th St. Station. From there the LUCY shuttles will take you within 2 blocks of everywhere in University City. They're free for students (just show your ID) but if you have a monthly transit pass it won't matter anyway. The R1, R2 and R3 trains stop at University City Station, which is 3 blocks or less to Penn Hospital.

Considering your requirements there are probably some places in Delaware County that people who know better than I can recommend. I know i've seen some pretty nice apartment complexes along the R3 and the Route 100 trolley.

Anyway, the places I mentioned in Northwest Philly and the places in DelCo are within 5-10 miles of the hospital and outside of rush hour would probably put you at 25-45 minute commute.

[SassySean]

Thanks. I'm guessing a car is more of a hassle than anything. What are your opinions of Landsdowne or Center City as far as commuting to school and safety. Which one would be more reasonable (safety and cost) as far as apartment living goes? I'm not interested in a 45 min commute if I can avoid it.

[newmarlig]

Center city would be very convenient, but having a car would be a problem. Street parking is difficult to find and garage parking is expensive. On the plus side your commute would be quick and simple. Also center city is a great place to live. It's only a couple of miles long and the western end (Rittenhouse Square) is closer to Penn. If you won't be using your car often, I suggest not bringing it and using Welcome to Carshare.com - Car Share | Lift Share | Ride Share | Car Pool for those times when you need one.

Other areas to consider are Narberth and Ardmore. They are the western suburbs. Your commute would be similar to that mention by Solibs, but would be on the R5 train line. You would be at 30th Street station in about 15 minutes.

[SassySean]

Thanks so much. I can leave my car at home it wouldn't be a problem. You guys have given me several options. I'm leaning towards the areas closer to Penn.

Does anyone know where I can find a comprehensive guide to public transportation in Philly? Where I'm from the only public transportation available is the bus.

[newmarlig]

SEPTA for information. Having a car would only be a problem if you live in center city. You may need on in the suburbs. Again, I think center city would be your best and most convenient choice.

[freudgirl]

You might also think about living in west philly. It's close to campus and street parking is not a problem, although you would probably be able to walk to campus for ride the trolley. I got to UPenn for grad school now and I've lived in west philly for 2 years. It's safe as long as you find the right areas, and much cheaper than center city (although it's really easy to get downtown).
note: do not go farther west than 48th street and stay south of market st.