Renting in University City Philadelphia: Complete Guide
University City is one of Philadelphia's most dynamic and diverse neighborhoods, anchored by the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and the sprawling Penn Medicine/CHOP complex. It's ideal for students, academics, and healthcare professionals.
Average Rent in University City
Studios: $900–$1,400/month. One-bedrooms: $1,000–$1,800/month. Two-bedrooms: $1,400–$2,400/month. Prices vary significantly by proximity to campus and building age.
Best Streets
Spruce Street, Pine Street, and Baltimore Avenue offer a mix of apartment buildings and rowhouse rentals. Proximity to the 34 trolley and Market-Frankford El is highly valued.
Who Lives Here
A mix of Penn and Drexel students and faculty, hospital workers, and long-time West Philly residents. The neighborhood is diverse and has a strong academic-community identity.
Getting Around
The Market-Frankford El (34th and 40th Street stops), multiple trolley lines, and Penn's shuttle service make University City one of the best-connected neighborhoods outside Center City.