University City Area

The Territory: Schuylkill River to the east; Spring Garden Street, Powelton Avenue, and Market Street to the north; Civic Center Boulevard, University Avenue and Woodland Avenue to the south; and 52nd Street to the west.

The Lifestyle: Named for three major learning centers, the University of Pennsylvania, University of the Sciences and Drexel University, University City is one of the most diverse areas in Philadelphia, filled with students and more recent home buyers (including many university employees) who appreciate the value available in the Philly area neighborhoods. While it may seem like a college town due to its vast number of educational campuses, it is a community for the young and the young-at-heart.

Among the many attractions are galleries like the Institute of Contemporary Art, which teaches through exhibitions, educational programs, and publications; multiple museums; and theaters such as the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg Center, a leading venue with over 100 performances a year. Part of the University of Pennsylvania’s WXPN radio station, The World Café Live blends music and dining and presents a wide variety of artists.

Because University City is so diverse, its restaurant offerings range from straight-ahead American (Delilah’s Southern Cuisine) to West African ( at the aptly named West African Restaurant.) Also check out the Marigold Kitchen, White Dog Café and Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant.

University City is walkable from Center City. 30th Street Station offers Amtrak and SEPTA train service. On-street parking can be easier to find here compared to other city neighborhoods, though that certainly is not true in the immediate university campus areas.

When it comes to University City real estate, you’ll find tree-lined streets, Victorian and Italianate homes with expansive porches ranging from $600,000 - $800,000 and traditional brick row homes ranging from the $100,000s to the $400,000s, depending on their location and condition. There are also a lot of investment properties available thanks to the presence of so many students.

Learn more about University City here at the neighborhood association's web site.

Kurfiss Sotheby’s International Realty’s Center City real estate office can advise you on University City real estate or rentals. Please phone the office at 215.735.2225 or email us.