Top 5 Neighborhoods for College Students in Philadelphia
University City might be the biggest when it comes to student life, but there are plenty of other great neighborhoods in Philadelphia for College Students.
When it comes to attracting a massive student population, University City has seemingly cornered the market on student life. With two of the world’s most esteemed universities within blocks of one another, it’s no surprise to hear that University City is a highly sought after neighborhood for college students living and studying here in Philadelphia.
But, in a city as diverse as ours, why follow the crowd? Living outside of University City isn’t just an off-the-beaten-path option, but it’s also a great way to explore other (equally attractive) parts of the city that you might not have considered otherwise. Here’s a roundup of the top 5 neighborhoods for college students in Philadelphia.
- Temple: Just a quick ride up the Broad Street line and you’re in Owl Country. Temple University, located in North Philadelphia just 1.7 miles from City Hall, is one of Philly’s most bustling academic epicenters. Not only does Temple stand out as a globally renowned university, but Temple has also seen extraordinary growth over the last few years. From the library (ahem…upstairs nightclub) at Master’s Bar & Restaurant to an array of incredible food trucks, this neighborhood helps students stretch their budget without lacking in Philly flavor.
- Brewerytown: Just north of Fairmount and the Art Museum, this up-and-coming neighborhood is the perfect neighborhood for area students. In addition to affordable rental rates, this neighborhood combines the two things that are integral to college life: beer and cheap eats. Don’t miss Rybrew (equal parts sandwich shop and bottle shop) and Flying Fish Craft House & Restaurant.
- Manayunk: Known for having one of the most inviting Main Streets in the area, Manayunk draws Philly U, PCOM, St. Joe’s, and other nearby students. And it’s no wonder why…the neighborhood’s name literally translates as “place to drink.” Catering to a younger clientele, many local establishments offer late night “happy hours” like Mad River’s 9-11pm Friday fun fest featuring $2 Coors and Corona Bottles plus $2 mixed well drinks.
- Fishtown/Kensington: A few years ago, Northern Liberties may have made this very list, but as Fishtown’s nearby neighbor matures, students flock across Girard seeking more reasonable rents in Fishtown and Kensington. Pizza Brain–equally respected for its gourmet pies and Guinness World Record holding collection–is just across the street from the deliciously fun flavors of Little Baby’s Ice Cream. And for a killer beer selection, don’t miss Bottle Bar East and Craft Beer Shoppe.
- Port Richmond: Home of the Original Tacconelli’s Pizzeria, Port Richmond is a student’s dream. This fifth generation, authentic Italian BYO has been awarded many lofty titles for their brick oven pies. In fact, Tacconelli’s recently received national recognition by Food & Wine Magazine as one of the Best Pizza Places in the US! A few blocks away, Memphis Taproom serves up a rotating tap beer selection and a delicious menu which, of course, includes your standard bar food plus some yummy vegetarian and vegan options.