Living in Philadelphia as an expat
Philadelphia, fondly known as 'Philly', is Pennsylvania's largest city, just a few hours' drive from New York City and Washington, DC. While it might not have the same reputation as its illustrious neighbours, the city offers a range of opportunities for those moving to Philadelphia.
Working in Philadelphia
Many consider Philadelphia the economic powerhouse of Pennsylvania – the city ranks among the top 10 largest metropolitan economies in the United States. While competition for jobs is fierce and securing employment can be challenging, those who succeed are likely to benefit from salaries that are slightly higher than the national average.
Sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, finance, and tourism are the pillars of Philadelphia's economy. Medicine and education account for nearly a third of local employment. The city's major employers include the University of Pennsylvania, the School District of Philadelphia, and Fortune 500 companies such as Comcast, Crown Holdings, and Aramark. Earning well, combined with Philadelphia’s moderate cost of living compared to other East Coast cities, means you can expect a comfortable lifestyle.
Finding work in Philadelphia often takes effort and patience. If you're qualified in healthcare or education, you'll generally have good prospects. Online job boards and networking are the go-tos when it comes to finding employment.
Work culture in Philadelphia lines up with the rest of the East Coast’s reputation for long hours. That being said, employers increasingly recognise the importance of work-life balance, offering benefits such as ample paid leave, hybrid or remote work, and health insurance to limit turnover.
Lifestyle in Philadelphia
Philadelphia offers new arrivals a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city energy. The city’s lifestyle is a balance of hard work, strong community spirit, and leisure.
Shopping is one of Philadelphia’s key attractions. From the vast King of Prussia Mall to the historic Reading Terminal Market, you can enjoy everything from luxury boutiques to fresh produce and handmade crafts. Macy’s Center City adds a touch of history in the form of the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ, the world’s largest pipe organ. Shoppers also benefit from tax-free clothing and shoe purchases, making retail therapy even more appealing.
Philadelphia is also a great destination for foodies. The city’s Italian heritage has left a lasting mark, introducing iconic fusion dishes such as the Philly cheesesteak and the hoagie. Philly's nightlife and entertainment are equally appealing. You can enjoy jazz in Northern Liberties, craft beer in local breweries, or large-scale concerts at venues like the Wells Fargo Center and the Mann Center. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway also hosts major outdoor events and is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions.
Outdoor enthusiasts are well catered for, with various green spaces, walkways, and nearby state parks providing opportunities for running, cycling, and rowing. Philadelphia is a veritable playground for sports fans, with the Eagles playing American football at Lincoln Financial Field, and the Phillies playing baseball at Citizen Bank Park.
Finding accommodation in Philadelphia
There's a range of housing options in Philadelphia, ranging from modern apartments in the city centre to detached or semi-detached family houses in the suburbs. Compared to other East Coast cities such as New York or Washington, DC, accommodation in Philadelphia is generally more affordable. Many newcomers choose to make use of real estate agents to simplify the search. Some relocation companies even include house-hunting services as part of their packages.
Neighbourhoods in Philadelphia are diverse and have distinct characters. Old City, for example, exudes historic charm, Center City oozes energy and vibrance, and Chestnut Hill radiates a pleasant sense of serenity and calm. Living outside the city centre doesn't mean giving up on convenience, as Philadelphia is well connected by public transport, making it easy to access work, shopping, and recreation.
Renting Expat Accommodation in Philadelphia
Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Philadelphia
Cost of living in Philadelphia
The cost of living in Philadelphia is slightly above the national average, but the city remains more affordable than many other major East Coast metropolises. This makes it an attractive option for newcomers seeking a balance between urban convenience and manageable expenses.
Accommodation is generally more affordable than in other large US cities, though rent can still be a significant expense depending on the neighbourhood. Upscale areas like Rittenhouse Square or Fishtown tend to be pricier, while districts such as Manayunk or University City are more budget-friendly options.
Public transport is affordable and efficient, with buses, trams, and trains serving most areas. Driving, however, can be costly due to high insurance, parking, and petrol costs. Groceries are a bit pricier than elsewhere in the US, but shopping at local markets or buying in bulk can help reduce costs.
When it comes to eating out and entertainment in Philadelphia, the city caters to a wide range of budgets. From casual cheesesteak joints to high-end restaurants, you're sure to find something to your taste. Prices for museums, theatres, and sporting events range from affordable to premium.
Costs for schooling vary depending on the institution you choose. Public schools are free to attend, but use zoning to admit students. Private schools are expensive, but offer high-quality education and more flexible enrolment policies. The quality of healthcare in Philadelphia is high, and so are the costs associated with it. Negotiating health insurance as part of an employment package is advisable.
Cost of living in Philadelphia
Living in Philadelphia with children
Little ones will be well looked after at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the country's leading paediatric facilities. Outside of school, there's plenty to keep kids entertained in Philadelphia. The abundant sunshine allows families to make the most of the city's many sprawling parks and playgrounds. Alternatively, Philly is home to many cultural attractions and annual events for children to enjoy. Families can visit the Philadelphia Zoo and see rare animals from all over the world, or take in science exhibitions at the Franklin Institute.
Finding a school in Philadelphia
Philadelphia boasts many excellent schools. Although new arrivals can attend public schools for free, there are also plenty of private schools that offer a high standard of education in the city. Many of these schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is particularly appealing for expats. As there is only one international-curriculum school in the Philadelphia area, the French International School of Philadelphia, those seeking international schooling will need to look further afield.
Education and Schools in Philadelphia
Getting around in Philadelphia
Getting around in Philadelphia is relatively simple thanks to the city's grid layout and well-connected public transport system. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates trains, subways, buses, and trolleys, all accessible with the SEPTA Key smartcard. This integrated system makes commuting on public transport efficient and affordable, with options for weekly or monthly passes.
Trains connect the city to the busy Northeast Corridor, with 30th Street Station serving as the main hub for both SEPTA and Amtrak services to Boston, New York, and Washington, DC. The subway consists of two main lines: the Orange Line running north-south, and the Blue Line running east-west. Buses operate on more than 100 routes, some 24 hours a day, while trolleys provide a nostalgic way of getting around. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available.
Driving is optional in Philadelphia, particularly in Center City, due to traffic congestion and expensive parking. New arrivals can use a foreign driver's licence for up to a year before needing a Pennsylvania licence. Cycling and walking are also popular, supported by hundreds of miles of bike lanes and footpaths.
Public Transport and Driving in Philadelphia
Climate in Philadelphia
The weather in Philadelphia varies greatly between hot, muggy summers at around 77°F (25°C), and cold, snow-covered winters with daily temperatures well below 49°F (9°C). That said, the climate is mild for the most part – rainfall is spread out across the seasons, with a notable peak in the early summer.
New arrivals moving to Philadelphia will discover a bustling urban environment where residents are extremely proud of their city. It offers a wonderful balance of urban and suburban life and is an excellent destination for those looking for a busy, diverse and ever-expanding city to call home.