Northern Liberties - Fishtown

Boundaries: Girard Avenue to the north; Callowhill Street to the south; North 8th Street to the west; and the Delaware River to the east.

Located just north of Center City, Northern Liberties was an affordable spot for artists and musicians just a few years ago, but many people will tell you it has completely gentrified. Those in search of a more cutting-edge neighborhood have moved on to nearby Old Kensington and Fishtown, though those who consider themselves truly “in the know” will tell you those neighborhoods are gentrifying as well – a testament to just how popular Philadelphia has become, perhaps?

Residentially, the Northern Liberties area primarily is made up of row homes and loft conversions with some architecturally interesting new construction. Old Kensington is very industrial with many factories and small rowhomes. Fishtown is mostly rowhomes, most on the small side, with some factories scattered about. As our own agent and former Fishtown resident, Melanie Stecura, says of Kensington and Fishtown: “Think Alphabet City/East Village 30 years ago, and you’ll have a sense of what this area is like.” If you’re not from New York and don’t know what that means, just think of a working class neighborhood where families live for generations mixed in with some new arrivals who are investing in the area, rehabbing homes, establishing art studios, opening small businesses and the like.

Real-estate prices range from approximately $250-$300/square foot for new construction in Northern Liberties to approximately $175/square foot for existing homes. Prices in Fishtown and Old Kensington are a bit lower.

Northern Liberties is popular not only for its affordability but for its good access to public transportation via train and bus. On-street parking can also be a bit easier in this part of the city.

When it comes to dining out in these three areas, as in so many Philadelphia neighborhoods, there is a wide range of options. In Fishtown, Johnny Brenda’s is noted for its live music and bar food; the Memphis Taproom has an unusual lineup of beers; Ida Mae’s Bruncherie is the place to go for well-prepared food from local farms; and Johnny Hots has classic Philly cheesesteaks (Best of Philly winner!). Ortlieb’s Jazz Haus is one of the most famous and oldest jazz venues in Philadelphia. More recent additions to the neighborhood include Bar Ferdinand for tapas, Standard Tap for an impressive selection of local beers and yummy bar food, Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat, for “Jewish country cooking,” and Cantina dos Segundos.

Dog owners will appreciate Orianna Hill Park in Northern Liberties, which includes an off-leash dog run. Nearby Liberty Lands boasts a two-acre park and playground.

Learn more about the area from the Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association.

For more information about Northern Liberties real estate or rentals, please phone our Philadelphia real estate office at 215.735.2225 or email us.