History meets modernity in Philadelphia. The city boasts a rich heritage and incredible landmarks coexisting with a thriving tech scene and a foodie’s wonderland. There’s a little something for everyone in the City of Brotherly Love, including an array of perks for those who find themselves putting down roots. Let’s take a look at why moving to Philly may just be the best decision you ever make.
History and Culture
Philadelphia holds a special place in American History. After all, the city was the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence on the Constitution and is still home to the Liberty Bell. You can walk through the cobblestone streets of Old City to feel a soft connection to spirits of the past or drop by Independence Hall, where the Founding Fathers met and debated— and eventually signed two of the most important documents in our nation’s history.
Philadelphia is also a city renowned for its world-class museums and vibrant art scene. The Museum of Art showcases a collection spanning centuries, while the incredible Barnes Foundation boasts an array of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Early Modernist works. If you’re looking for something less formal, don’t miss the street art scene that adds a contemporary twist.
Neighborhoods and Communities
If you’re planning to move to Philly, one of the first steps on your agenda is choosing where to plant the seeds of your new home. There is a wide selection of neighborhoods around the area, many following or around the Main Line— a stretch of land in Pennsylvania that follows one of the first railroads.
Old City
If you crave a unique blend of history, entertainment, and charm, then you needn’t look any further than Old City. Remember those cobblestone streets we mentioned? They happen to be lined with eclectic boutiques, trendy bars, and critically acclaimed restaurants. Old City is also one of the best places in Philly to find loft apartments.
University City
The more academically minded will love this vibrant neighborhood. Home to both Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania, Uni City is home to sprawling campuses and a myriad of libraries. You can attend cultural events or thought-provoking lectures open to the public. Don’t miss the live theater performances or the food scene, either!
Fishtown
If hip and trendy is more your vibe, look no further than Fishtown. Known as a hipster haven, Fishtown is packed with artisanal coffee shops, art spaces, and gastropubs. You can enjoy live music or browse unique finds, all the while taking in the energy and sense of community. This neighborhood strongly appeals to young professionals and creatives.
Thriving Job Market
Aside from a home, you also need to find a place to work. You may already have a job lined up that sparked your move, but if not, you have a wide selection available. Some of the best industries to look into are Health, education, and tech.
Philadelphia is home to a robust health and education sector, which leads to plenty of career opportunities. You can work for the world-renowned Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia or the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
Philly’s many universities and colleges fuel high demand for skilled educators and researchers, but you shouldn’t skip the local elementary and high schools raising up our youth. While they may not seem as prestigious as the university, they are just as important to the future.
Additionally, Philadelphia’s tech scene is rapidly expanding, with a myriad of both startups and established companies migrating in. The bustline entrepreneurial spirit offers exciting opportunities for software developers, data analysts, and more. The city has also committed to fostering innovation, with the Philadelphia Science Center helping to bolster this commitment.
Recreation and Entertainment
Philly is a city that lives and breathes sports, with passionate fans supporting local professional teams like the Eagles (football), Phillies (baseball), 76ers (basketball), and Flyers (hockey). You can attend games at Citizens Bank Park or snag some coveted NFL tickets to Lincoln Financial Field to experience Philly’s favorite pastime surrounded by the community.
If nature and recreation are more your scene, you can find solace in Philadelphia’s abundance of parks and outdoor spaces. One of the largest urban park systems in the country, Fairmount Park offers miles of scenic trails. Families can bike, hike, or take a leisurely walk to appreciate the beauty of the city and the nearby landscapes.
Sample the City
Philadelphia is a large city, but most neighborhoods offer a more small-town feel. The people in Philly love a strong sense of community. There really is something for everyone, from Rittenhouse Row for the food lovers to Reading Terminal Market for a selection of farm-fresh produce that will have every home chef’s mouth-watering. You can enjoy live performances for music or theater, cheer along with the crowds at the latest sports event, or enjoy a quiet evening exploring idyllic Wissahickon Valley Park. Pennsylvania has a lot to offer its residents; isn’t it time you started exploring?
