Old City
Philadelphia Neighborhood Guide
Welcome To Old City, The Historic Heart Of Philadelphia
New to Old City? Or thinking about making the move? There’s so much to love about living in this historic district of Philadelphia!
Old City is an ideal location for anyone who wants easy access to major landmarks, great restaurants, and lively nightlife. You’re just steps away from some of the city’s most beloved attractions including Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House, recognized as the place where Betsy Ross lived when she made the first American Flag .
Old City’s renaissance came in the late ’90s as the neighborhood became a hotspot for art and entertainment. The area is renowned for its fabulous restaurants, interesting galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Fridays are especially popular for art lovers, who flock to the area for year-round art walks and visit from gallery to gallery.
Whether you’ve just started your search, are thinking about your long-term future in Old City, or have been here for years – we’ve got everything you need to know as an insider in this fabulous neighborhood! In our Old City Neighborhood Guide, you’ll find all you need to know to help you decide if Old City is the place to call home.
Old City, Philadelphia: Home Prices, Values, and Market Trends
- $352k Average sale price
- 126Average days on market
- 15.8%of Homes Sell Above List Price
- 98walkability score
- 100public transport score
- 86biking score
About Old City
Old City’s renaissance came in the late ’90s as the neighborhood became a hotspot for art and entertainment. The area is renowned for its fabulous restaurants, interesting galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Fridays are especially popular for art lovers, who flock to the area for year-round art walks and visit from gallery to gallery.
Whether you’ve just started your search, are thinking about your long-term future in Old City, or have been here for years – we’ve got everything you need to know as an insider in this fabulous neighborhood! In our Old City Neighborhood Guide, you’ll find all you need to know to help you decide if Old City is the place to call home.
Old City At A Glance


Walkability and Connectivity
The heart and soul of Philadelphia, Old City is walkable to almost everything. SEPTA also gives you access to the rest of the city.


The Lifestyle
For lovers of history and culture, with fashionable boutiques, great restaurants, eclectic galleries and theaters, and vibrant nightlife.


Employment Opportunities
You can find jobs in universities, research, health and tech as well as Fortune 500 employers located in Philadelphia.


You’ll love…
Walking through Historic Philadelphia, sharing drinks in buzzing beer gardens and having the ultimate food experience.
Where Is Old City, Philadelphia?
Old City is considered the city's Historic District and is surrounded by Washington Square and Chinatown to the West and the Delaware River and the Ben Franklin Bridge to the East.
Old City’s boundaries are generally described as the Delaware River to the east, 6th Street to the west, and Walnut Street to the south. Within that area is the Historic District, which includes Independence National Historical Park, Penn’s Landing waterfront, and Jewelers’ Row.
Living in Old City
With plenty of sidewalks and large spaces, Old City is a very walkable neighborhood. Residents and tourists enjoy the many walking tours available throughout the city all year round.
There are also several public transportation options available, including SEPTA (the city’s public transportation system), PATCO (the Delaware River’s rapid transit system), and the Airport Line that travels between 30th Street Station and Philadelphia International Airport.
You’ll Also Love Old City If You…


If you love a good food experience
There is no denying that food is a major part of the Philadelphia experience. In Old City, you’ll find everything from traditional cheesesteaks to gourmet tacos and everything in between. If you’re craving ice cream, look no further than The Franklin Fountain. This vintage soda fountain serves up delicious ice cream sundaes, milkshakes and sodas. Amada is known for its creative take on Spanish cuisine, with fresh ingredients and flavors perfectly balance. Don’t miss out on their tasty empanada and baked goat cheese served in a hot tomato sauce with a side of toasted garlic butter bread. For a taste of Asia, head to Buddakan, a hot spot for upscale Asian fusion dishes in a swanky setting. From fresh dumplings to soft shell crab, the exotic flavors are sure to delight your tastebuds.
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If you love history
Old City is the historic heart of Philadelphia. You’ll find Independence National Historical Park, the place where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, as well as the Liberty Bell. The neighborhood is also home to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which houses one of the best art collections in the world. Don’t forget to check out the Ben Franklin Bridge, connecting the City of Brotherly Love with Camden, New Jersey.
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If you love exciting nightlife
Old City has one of Philadelphia’s hippest nightlife scenes with upscale restaurants, pubs, dive bars, lounges, and tons of live music venues. Whether you love wine, whiskey, beer or all three, Old City has got you covered when it comes to drinks. Indulge in over 40 taps at Independence Beer Garden, have cocktails with your partner with a waterfront view at Morgan’s Pier or settle down in a cozy tavern at Khyber Pass Pub. You’ll find the nightlife condensed along Third and Market Streets to Chestnut and Front Streets.
SHOW MOREReady To Make Old City Your New Home?
Whether you’re a homebuyer or seeking your next place to rent, we’re here to help. Let’s destress the whole process and get you a place that matches your vision of the perfect home.