$676,762Average Value$344Average Price per Sq Ft17Homes For Sale
Walkable suburb with Philly energy
Southwest Center City goes by many nicknames, including Graduate Hospital – or G-Ho – and South of South – or So-So. While there are many different ways to refer to this 12-block stretch of walkable streets, there’s typically one way to describe it: Revitalized. South Street, where some of the city’s biggest festivals take place, and the popular walking trail along the Schuylkill River breathe fresh air into the neighborhood. Residents are also conveniently located near the University of Pennsylvania and its extension of hospitals, just across the river. “A lot of doctors and business professionals move here,” says Morgan Rodriguez, a neighborhood local and Realtor with OFC Realty. “They will just walk right across the bridge to get to the hospital.” But anyone who wants proximity to the excitement of the city will appreciate life in Southwest City City. While the neighborhood offers its own local dining, Subway access and community events, the iconic commercial district around Rittenhouse Square is just blocks away.
Classic rowhomes and modern condos
Throughout much of Southwest Center City are three-story, nineteenth and twentieth-century rowhomes, some with brick exteriors and others with more Italianate influences. “The older brick rowhomes in this area are very classically Philly,” says Rodriguez. Many of these established homes have well-preserved exteriors with renovated interiors, so residents can appreciate the historic architecture while enjoying modern living. Blended among the residential streets are townhomes with Second Empire architecture and contemporary condos, many with attached garages and rooftop decks that provide stunning views of the Center City skyline. A block of properties might range from a humble one-bedroom and two-bathroom unit to a spacious four-bedroom and five-bathroom unit. Prices also reflect this range, starting just below $300,000 and rising to upwards of $1.8 million.
Barhopping on South Street
Though the east side of South Street toward Broad Street has long been the go-to spot for local pubs and trendy restaurants, the west side has been gaining a lot of traction. Cafes, bars and boutiques have recently set up shop along Southwest Center City’s pedestrian-friendly streets, making it the new place to be. Residents can head to Cafe Ynez for Mexican-inspired breakfast, lunch or dinner in a vibrant diner. Nearby, the Sidecar Bar & Grille is a gastropub with brunch specials. The day out can continue at Dock Street Brewery South, where the craft beer menu rotates, and the kitchen whips up pizza and burgers. There are many corner markets around town, including The Fresh Grocer of Grays Ferry and South Square Market. More grocery options aren’t far to the north, where there’s a Trader Joe’s and a Sprouts right next to a Target. This walkable commercial area provides a broader shopping and dining experience, with The Shops at Liberty Place and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Scenic walks on the Schuylkill River Trail
Southwest City City is home to the Marian Anderson Recreation Center, where residents can work out inside, swim in the outdoor pool and play on the playground, basketball courts and baseball field. Another recreation center in the neighborhood is Christian Street YMCA, just a block away. Athletes and families alike might opt for an adventure at Chew Playground, where there are also athletic courts and fields that host recreation leagues. When looking to escape the urban streets of the city, locals can leash up their dogs and make their way to the green and sculpture-filled Schuylkill River Park to access the trail along the river. “It’s close enough to walk to the trail from the neighborhood,” says Jim Robertson, a Realtor with OCF Realty. “It’s usually pretty crowded with bikers and runners.” A few blocks to the north, Rittenhouse Square is an iconic city park in the middle of a bustling retail district that hosts the Rittenhouse Farmers Market.
Philadelphia art and UPenn architecture
Artistic locals scratch their creative itch at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. On the east side of Southwest Center City, this venue features eclectic mosaics and folksy art exhibits in both an outdoor and indoor space. On the other side of town across the Schuylkill River, residents can also admire the intricate architecture of the University of Pennsylvania's campus. The buildings on the grounds of this Ivy League school show Gothic-era styles dating back to the 1700s.
The Odunde Festival and Bloktoberfest
“Southwest Center City has a great sense of community. It’s very family-friendly and diverse,” Rodriguez says. This connection is celebrated every year when the neighborhood comes together for two major events on South Street. The Odunde Festival is a vibrant celebration of African culture with food, music, dancing and vendors and has been running strong for decades. Bloktoberfest is another exciting event that lines the street with residents enjoying live music, food trucks and vendors.
City public schools and private institutions
Students can attend the public Chester A. Arthur School for kindergarten through eighth grade, which offers an 11-1 student-teacher ratio and a B-minus grade from Niche. A nearby private elementary and middle school option is The Philadelphia School, which Niche grades an A-plus. For a public high school, students can advance to Universal Audenried Charter School, which Niche grades a C and ranks among the Best Public High Schools for Athletes in Pennsylvania. Private high school options include Saints Neumann Goretti, a Catholic school with an A-minus Niche grade.
Riding on the SEPTA
Residents can get around town using the SEPTA Subway system, with the Lombard-South and Ellsworth-Federal stations on the east end of the neighborhood. The SEPTA bus also services the town and the surrounding Philadelphia metro area. To leave the city easily, Interstate 76 is accessible just west on the other side of the Schuylkill River.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Asmaro Gist,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Markward Playground
Basketball
Picnic Area
Tennis
Chew Playground
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Julian Abele Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Events
Carpenter Green Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Botanical Gardens
Marian Anderson Recreation Center
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Ridgway Park
Picnic Area
Pool
Playground
Transit
Airport
Philadelphia International
19 min drive
Bus
Broad St & Fitzwater St
Bus
17th St & Catherine St
Bus
Bainbridge St & 22nd St
Bus
19th St & Catherine St
Bus
South St & 18th St
Bus
Broad St & Carpenter St
Bus
20th St & Catherine St
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Southwest Center City
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Southwest Center City Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Southwest Center City, Philadelphia sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Southwest Center City, Philadelphia over the last 12 months is $470,000, up 43% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Escape to your own urban sanctuary in the heart of Graduate Hospital. This stunning 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo is a masterclass in design, where thoughtful updates and upgrades meet classic charm.Step inside and feel the warmth of updated hardwood floors throughout, illuminated by natural light pouring in through custom blinds. The true star of the show is your private backyard oasis—a
Set on a lush, tree-lined block in the heart of the Graduate Hospital Neighborhood, this striking 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect balance of bold modern design, refined finishes, and effortless city living across four expansive levels. Limestone steps lead to a dramatic main floor anchored by a custom living and dining space with built-in entertainment center, decorative fireplace,
Marc HammarbergBHHS Fox & Roach At the Harper, Rittenhouse Square
Tucked away on a low-traffic block in Philladelphia's sought-after Graduate Hospital neighborhood, you'll find 2436 Montrose Street. This renovated 2-story home has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a finished basement, and a private patio. A classic brick facade greets you out front. Inside, high ceilings and hardwood floors frame the open and airy main level. The living room boasts a bright, oversized
Stunning 4-Bedroom Contemporary Townhome in Graduate Hospital with Skyline Views and Luxurious Features.Welcome to this incredible 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home offering approximately 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in Graduate Hospital. Boasting a modern aesthetic and unmatched amenities, this four-story residence features four unique private outdoor spaces,
Welcome to this stunning brownstone triplex located in the heart of Graduate Hospital—one of Philadelphia’s most sought-after neighborhoods.This beautifully maintained property features three distinct and thoughtfully designed units:Unit 1: A spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offering 1,240 square feet of comfortable, open-concept living.Unit 2: A charming and
Welcome to 1635 Catharine St, a charming and updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home in the heart of Graduate Hospital, offering an easy walk to Rittenhouse Square. The classic red brick facade with lush planters adds curb appeal, while inside, high ceilings, hardwood floors, and oversized windows create a bright and inviting atmosphere. The open living and dining areas easily accommodate gatherings, and
Located in the crux of Center City, South Philadelphia, and University City, Graduate Pointe, located at 2501 Washington Avenue, offers all the amenities of a luxe lifestyle with the ease and convenience that our bustling city has to offer. Our 1 and 2 bedroom apartments are beautifully designed with modern fixtures and finishes, a full appliance package, and brand new hardwood floors.
Available 9/2!Don’t miss the chance to live in this unique apartment building in the beautifully restored facade of the historic Royal Theater on South St. This junior 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit has everything you need: central air/heat, recessed lighting, hardwood floors, and washer/dryer in unit. The spacious bedroom has a large closet and frosted window that provides diffused lighting
Welcome to our Exquisite & Modern New Construction Apartment Homes at The Howell: 2101 Washington Avenue! Experience the charm and convenience of Graduate Hospital from the comforts of your own brand new apartment in one of Center City’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Opened in 2025 The Howell offers wonderful amenities such as resident parking, a video intercom system, and unobstructed 360
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Asmaro Gist,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
14,935
Median Age
35
Population Density
44 ppl/acre
Population under 18
22.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10.1%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$130,228
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$155,513
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
97.6%
College Graduates
78%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
44.7%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
81%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
44''
Average Winter Low Temperature
26°F
Average Summer High Temperature
87°F
Annual Snowfall
13''
Area Factors
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
98/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
86/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
82/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
