Help in getting familiar with Philadelphia - renting a home (homes, place to live)

[dorianwales]

Hi all,

I plan on re-locating to the US in half a year's time. I'll be working in Philadelphia.

Most of my predecessors have rented homes in Cherry Hill, NJ which i understand is considered a good place to live in.

I'm looking for recommendations on the better areas outside/in Philadelphia to live in. I myself am a city type. We'll be a family of 3 (a 1.5 y/o baby).

I have tried to gather information on some of the surrounding areas but I believe a knowledgeable advice from a local person would be best.

I'd estimate our budget at $2,000/month to start with.

Regards and many thanks,

Dorian

[bryson662001]

This site offers a wealth of information for you.....just what you are asking for. Take the time to read it going back as far as you have time for. It helps to have a map handy so you can orient yourself while you are searching the threads.

[kidphilly]

Some area you may consider are one the downtown/center areas if you desire a true city experience. other areas might Hadoonfield (close to cherry hill) or on the PA side Chestnut Hill or the Main Line area.

Maybe a better description of what you mean by city life and where you are coming from would be helpful. Also whether you plan to walk to work, take a train/public transit or drive, assuming by Phildelphia you mean center city as your place of employment.

[dorianwales]

nt

[orrmobl]

$2,000 doesn't get you a very large home on the Main Line - maybe 3 bedrooms max. It all depends on how far you would like to commute and how close to the city you want/need to be.

I would not recommend Cherry Hill as it's just a big suburban wasteland IMO...malls, 70s homes, lots of convoluted highways...just not much character. You'd be better served finding a part of the city or the Main Line that has the amenities you're looking for.

Let us know where you'll be working, commute desired, other considerations and we can suggest some places.