Center City

Live, Work & Play in Center City Philadelphia

Bustling, walkable, and packed full of fun—welcome to Center City Philadelphia! Center City truly is the heart of Philly, geographically and metaphorically. Home to the city’s premier entertainment and business district, some of its most popular cultural attractions, and one of the nation’s most densely populated neighborhoods, Center City defines everything that makes Philly so unique. Some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods can be found here, as well as favorite nightlife scenes, a thriving shopping and dining district, and culture that ranges from performing arts to rich American history.

Spotlights of Center City

Old City

At the heart of Center City, along the shores of the Delaware River, lies the hub of Philly, where all the action happens. Cafes, galleries, bars and clubs, restaurants, attractions, parks, skyscrapers, performing arts venues… Old City has them all.

Society Hill

A largely residential area, Society Hill is home to some of Philly’s oldest Colonial-era homes, tucked into a peaceful neighborhood setting. It does have a small commercial district of restaurants, shops, and historic attractions along South Street.

Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square is Center City’s premier upscale shopping and boutique district. It’s home to a huge array of locally owned fine dining establishments and high-end stores, as well as chic galleries, theatres, cafes, and cocktail bars.

Getting Around

Commuter Rail Transit: SEPTA, Center City Commuter Connection, PATCO Speedline
Trolley/Light Rail (Around Philly): SEPTA
Bus: SEPTA, Greyhound, Megabus
Airport: Philadelphia International

Demographics

Population (est): 180,000
Zip Codes: 19102, 19103, 19106, 19107, 19146, 19147
County: Philadelphia
Mean Home Price: $215,000

Living in Center City

Why live in Center City? The reasons are just about endless! There is an endless array of things to do in Center City, from shopping and dining to festivals and events to nightlife and entertainment. There are beautiful parks and scenic outdoor areas. There are thriving business and employment centers. There are beautiful homes historic and new. There are fantastic amenities and conveniences, all within walking distance. Come explore all that life in Center City has to offer.

The Homes

Center City is home to a huge variety of homes, from historic Colonial homes to modern urban condos. You can find authentic Italian style in Bella Vista, or unique cultural attractions and entertainment in Chinatown. Logan Square is Philly’s art, science, and history hub. Old City is the heart of nightlife and entertainment… the list goes on!

The Amenities

Shopping, dining, businesses, conveniences… Center City has them all. It’s home to numerous shopping and commercial districts, each with its own collection of amenities and businesses. Rittenhouse Row is known for its upscale shops and restaurants, while Midtown Village features independently owned businesses. West Market Office District is the modern and business office district, while Center City East features over 1 million square feet of new retail.

The Jobs

As Philly’s primary business district, Center City is also home to some of the city’s largest corporations and employers. This includes companies like Sunoco, Cigna, Aramark, Comcast, Kogan Page, Jefferson University Health, and most of the city’s main government buildings.

The Schools

Public school students of Center City are served by Philadelphia City School District. Center City is home to several top-rated schools, like Masterman Secondary School, rated the #1 College Prep High School in Pennsylvania, the Science Leadership Academy, ranked the #4 Best Magnet High School, and The Academy at Palumbo, ranked #5.