Spruce Hill

Spruce Hill is a former “streetcar suburb” located in the University City area of West Philadelphia. “Eclectic” is the perfect word to characterize this vibrant and multi-cultural neighborhood. Not only does it boast a colorful array of historic homes and an offbeat collection of shops and eateries along Baltimore Avenue, but it is also home to a diverse cross-section of the Philadelphia population. Students and families are attracted to the neighborhood due to its proximity to the University of Pennsylvania, yet there are still a large number of residents who have lived here for many years. This gives the neighborhood a strong feeling of being rooted in the past yet looking forward to and embracing the future.

Spruce Hill is bounded by Baltimore Avenue to the south, Sansom Street to the north, 40th Street to the east and 46th street to the West. It is one of Philadelphia’s most pedestrian- and bike-friendly neighborhoods and is easily reached by public transportation via the trolley or the Market-Frankford subway line.

Clark Park stands in the center of the neighborhood and serves as a community gathering place throughout the year. Residents can enjoy outdoor concerts, flea markets, a farmers’ market and even performances of Shakespeare plays. The Philadelphia Orchestra plays here from time and time and the park is home to what is thought to be the only life-size statue of Charles Dickens in the world.

Homes in Spruce Hill are historically significant and represent a wide range of styles. Many of the larger homes have been divided into apartments to accommodate the student population in the neighborhood, but some single-family residences are still available. If you enjoy homes with character, Spruce Hill will not disappoint.

Its location in an excellent school district makes Spruce Hill popular with families. Students in the neighborhood attend Penn Alexander Elementary School, which is considered by many to be the finest public elementary school in Philadelphia.