Moving (back) to Philly in June...neighborhood advice needed (apartment, renting)

[Back2Philly2010]

When are you moving?
June 2010

Where are you coming from?
Upstate NY

Why are you moving?
I lived in Philly for a few years after college--left about 10 years ago and decided I would love to come back.

Where will you be working?
I'm a freelance writer & work from home so daily commute is not a factor

Have you been here yet?
Yep, lived in Philly before but imagine it's changed so I'm treating it kinda like I'm a total newbie

Will you buy or rent?
Rent, coming down for a couple of days in late April to find an apartment

If buying, are you looking for a house or a condo? How much can you spend?
N/A

If renting, are you looking for an apartment, a townhouse or loft? How much can you spend?
Either, don't want to spend more than $800/month.

Do you prefer hi-rise or walk up?
No preference
Are you married or single? Do you have children?
Single, no kids.
Do you prefer public or private schools?
N/A
Do you have pets?
Yep, one cat & want to get a (small) dog
Do you want or need a yard?
No, so long as I'm in a nice area for dog walking

Are you keeping a car?
No

Do you prefer bustling activity or calm and quiet?
If "1" is calm & quiet and "10" is bustling activity, I'd say a 6.5.

What do you want to be closest to?
Work
Shopping
Basic services (supermarket, drugstore, etc.)
Nightlife
Train or subway stations

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

Coke or Pepsi?
Pepsi, of course.

I lived in Fairmount before, but I think I wanna try a different part of the city this time around. Also, I do want to stay in the city limits. I need some hustle & bustle, especially after living in smaller towns the past few years!

Thanks!

[orrmobl]

Check out Northern Liberties...it's still up and coming but has a cool vibe and lots of cool places and people to check out...

[solibs]

No Libs is good. I'd also check out Passyunk Square/EPX. Rents have crept up in the last 5 years or so so $800 doesn't get you what it used to in terms of an apartment . . . but there's a heck of a lot more to do these days outside your apartment so it's usually worth it.

If you don't mind a roommate - renting a house is the way to go.

[Back2Philly2010]

Thanks! I will put Northern Liberties and Passyunk Square on my list!