Most of the educational and medical facilities in University City are situated in the eastern portions, while the western areas are predominantly residential. Here is where you will find the roomy homes from the Victorian era.
Blockley is the earliest name given to this locale. Back in 1677, William Warner bought 1500 acres of real estate here from the local tribe of Indians and named it Blockley. In the 19th century, Blockley Township was notorious for being a haven for thieves who would flee across the river to the area after engaging in smuggling and other criminal activity in the city center.
The city of Philadelphia was founded five years after Blockley, but soon eclipsed it in size and importance. The district has a long and involved history with the city. University City has some historic luxury homes and much to offer in the way of real estate and properties for sale.
On the east, the Schuylkill River; on the west, 52nd Street; on the north, Spring Garden Street (to 40th Street), Powelton Avenue (to 44th Street), and Market Street; and on the south, Civic Center Boulevard, University Avenue and Woodland Avenue.
The bustling heart of West Philadelphia and academic hub of the entire region, University City gets its name for being home to two of the largest and most influential institutions in town: University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. These collegiate power players, sub-anchored by nationally renowned medical centers, serve various disciplines.
The following colleges and institutes also have facilities in University City or call the community home:
● University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, also known as USciences
● Community College of Philadelphia
● Lincoln University
● The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College
Here are some of University City's most prominent institutions and organizations:
Drexel University: http://www.drexel.edu/
University of Pennsylvania: http://www.upenn.edu/
University of the Sciences: http://www.usciences.edu/
Penn Food Trucks: http://www.pennfoodtrucks.com/
University City District: http://www.universitycity.org/
From shopping and soaking in the history on Chestnut Street to spending time in family-friendly municipal retreats like Clark Park or Penn Park near college campuses, there's plenty of ways to keep your days full and nights fun in the area! That said, here are some of our favorite attractions unique to University City:
The Woodlands: A National Historic Landmark District with pathways, cemetery avenues, and a mansion that comprises the Woodlands Heritage National Recreation Trail.
Cira Green: An elevated urban green space featuring skyline vistas, outdoor activities, and community events.
Penn Museum: A world-renowned archaeology and anthropology museum showcasing art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, Italy, Asia, the Americas, and more.
Whether you are a medical professional working at a university hospital, a student attending classes on campus, or part of a family that's looking to move to the heart of West Philadelphia, relocation is always a daunting undertaking. Navigating houses, condominiums, and apartments for sale in the area can be a stressful, time-consuming process if you don't have the proper resources. When you partner with The Mike McCann Team to find your next home, condominium, or apartment in the community, you'll have access to budget-conscious properties for sale and professional expertise that help you every step of the way.
For more information about buying a home or selling your property in University City, reach out to The Mike McCann Team today!
Read More ▾Percentage change from latest quarter vs same time period previous year
Data compiled using 2nd quarter 2024 data vs. same period from 2023
Population by Age Level. Median Age 24.4. Households: 22,593.
In Thousand of Dollars. (Median Income: $44,759)
Population by Education Level
Fair Market Rents
University City is just across the Schuylkill River from the heart of downtown Philadelphia. Its location makes it a premier place for purchasing real estate. Homes, condominiums, and apartments here have gained in value both because of location and quality of the neighborhood.
Several medical facilities can also be found here. These include the following institutions: Philadelphia Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, and the Veteran’s Administration Medical Center, and the Ryan Veterinarian Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Many students, teachers, and medical personnel who attend or work in these institutions live in the surrounding neighborhood of University City. They like the convenience of being so close to school or work. With new houses, condominiums, and apartments for sale, the district is an ever changing hotbed of young professionals and families that make for an interesting mix for the population’s age range and demographic at large.
University City is comprised of several smaller neighborhoods, which include Cedar Park, Garden Court, Spruce Hill, Squirrel Hill, Powelton Village, Walnut Hill, and Woodland Terrace. Residents enjoy easy access to University City through various subways and bus lines with neighborhoods that are very friendly to pedestrians and cyclists. It is served by SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line and can be reached by foot or car over the South Street Bridge.
Culture and the arts are woven into the fabric of life in this community. Locally-owned shops, restaurants, and bars line the streets and beckon passersby with their unique offerings. At the same time, well-kept parks offer ample opportunities for scoring fresh produce at farmers’ markets, partaking in a little exercise on their playing fields, or relaxing while watching concerts and plays presented throughout the year.
Real estate in University City comes in a variety of styles, from grand Victorian mansions with wide, welcoming porches to modern condominiums that are perfect for young professionals and students. Many of University City’s streets are shaded with mature trees, and green spaces offer respite from the city’s hustle-and-bustle.
Families are drawn to University City because of the excellent schools. Penn Alexander Elementary School is located in this district and is widely known as being one of the best public schools in Philadelphia.
