$384,526Average Value$239Average Price per Sq Ft61Homes For Sale
A blend of old and new in East Kensington
East Kensington, often called Lower Kensington, blends the old with the new in this hip North Philadelphia neighborhood, highlighting an urban residential environment with generational rowhomes, new construction and a desirable walkability factor. “It’s a community with a lot of history and a lot to do,” says former resident Scott Waters. “It used to be an old factory neighborhood with many Irish immigrants, and today is still extremely diverse.” The current artistic atmosphere of East Kensington stems from the trendy revitalization of neighboring Fishtown. “Fishtown has had a huge impact on making East Kensington what it is today. It has the same cultural vibe, yet the homes are cheaper,” says Rachel Shaw, a Realtor with Philly Home Girls, who has lived in the area for eight years.
Commercial space with residential living above is common in East Kensington.
Row homes in East Kensington typically have 2-3 bedroom.
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Hip eateries and bars within walking distance
Front Street and Frankford Avenue are the neighborhood’s two main commercial corridors. Thunderbird Salvage offers vintage treasures and Circle Thift is the go-to spot for a wardrobe refresh. Others can find a new read from H&H Books. “The best part about living in East Kensington is that you have everything that you need right there,” Shaw says, “You don’t have to leave for anything.” Numerous local markets are scattered around town like the Quick Stop on Frankford, while the nearby Save A Lot offers a more extensive selection. Other major brands like Target and The Home Depot are in Port Richmond. For a bite to eat, Hello Donuts + Coffee is packed with patrons in the morning, “They have a specialty donut every day. Forin is another spot known for their breakfast sandwiches,” Waters says. Fiore Shake & Steak serves delicious cheesesteaks and milkshakes, and everyone orders takeout from OG Pizza on Fridays. Vientiane Bistro is another favorite for Laotian eats. Late-night hangout spots include bars like Atlantis: The Lost Bar, The Monkey Club, and Philadelphia Brewing Co. Chic eateries vary far and wide, from Cook and Shaker for American fare and Martha for classic hoagies.
Post Haste is one of the new, hip restaurants in East Kensington.
The Philadelphia Brewing Co is a great place to meet friends for a pint in East Kensington.
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Historic rowhomes and new construction
Past meets present in East Kensington’s renovated rowhomes built in the late 1800s. Dilapidated homes that need some major TLC can sell in the low $100,000s, while historic homes featuring modern interiors start in the $200,000s, depending on the location and sell into the $400,000s. Brand new, modern three-story rowhomes with rooftop patios perfect for soaking in city views are mixed in between. “The southern areas close to Fishtown are changing, but there are still many rundown homes the further north you go,” Waters says. New construction closer to the vibrant streets of Fishtown can sell for much more, with prices ranging anywhere from $500,000 to $900,000. Street parking is the norm, while some newly constructed homes offer attached rear-entry garages. Like most urban areas, residents should always be aware of their surroundings, as crime is common. According to the CAP Index, East Kensington earns an 8 out of 10 crime score, well above the national average of 4.
East Kensington is growing with multiple new construction townhomes,
Colorful doors on row homes bring a vibrance to East Kensington.
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Vacant lots turned into green spaces
Small pocket parks and former vacant lots turned into green spaces are common. With over 32,000 vacant lots citywide, local nonprofits like Arcadia Commons aim to create even more outdoor retreats in East Kensington, emphasizing community gardens and natural areas. “Urban farming is super popular in the area,” Waters says. Emerald Wildflower Garden is another example of a volunteer-maintained green space full of native plants. It hosts events that range from live music to poetry readings and yoga classes. On the east end, Black Coyle & McBride Playground is the go-to spot for afternoons on the playground or practicing a new trick at the skate park. Next door is Pops Dogs, a small dog park with turf fields. Hagert Street Playground is another favorite, with a revamped playground and basketball court.
Emerald Street Community Garden includes fresh produce and chickens in East Kensington.
East Kensington is a neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia of approximately 25,000.
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Events in East Kensington
The neighborhood’s cultural environment is on display during the Kensington Derby and Arts Festival, one of Philadelphia’s quirkiest events. Thousands of people show up every spring to watch human-powered parade floats ride into a messy mud pit at the finish line. After the spectacle, residents can enjoy local food and artisan vendors. Weirdo Fest is another popular event, where the blocks around Philadelphia Brewing Company are filled with street performers and eclectic works of art.
Breakdancers perform along the street at the Kensington Derby.
Friends and family meet at the All City Block Party and Market in East Kensington.
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SEPTA rides through the city
Local commuters enjoy the convenience of Interstate 95, just a mile away, and Interstate 676, slightly south. Philadelphia is notoriously known for its SEPTA transit system, with bus stops scattered throughout the neighborhood. Huntingdon and York-Dauphin are the closest train stops, with approximately 20-minute commutes to Center City. Those traveling even further can head to Philadelphia International Airport, 12 miles away, while Temple University Hospital is a mere 2 miles away in case of emergencies. Other essential establishments include a diverse mix of worship houses.
The York-Dauphin SEPTA station is one of two convenient stops in East Kensington.
East Kensington is about 4 miles from Center City Philadelphia.
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Public and charter schools
Students in East Kensington may attend various public and charter schools within the Philadelphia School District, with many scoring below-average ratings on Niche. Young students may attend the C-rated Henry A. Brown School for kindergarten through eighth grade. Students may then move on to the C-minus-rated Kensington High School. Others can hone their creativity and prepare for a field in the arts by attending Kensington Creative & Performing Arts High School, which also scores a C-minus rating. Philadelphia is home to numerous universities, including Temple University, less than 2 miles away.
A vibrant learning environment at Henry A. Brown School, where education comes alive.
Kensington High School receives an overall C- grade from niche.com.
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
Jordon Hafetz,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Hagert Street Playground
Basketball
Playground
Collins Smith Barrick Play Garden
Multi-Purpose Field
Emerald Wildflower Garden
Botanical Gardens
Letterly Green
Multi-Purpose Field
Black Coyle & McBride Playground
Dog Park
Skateboard
Playground
Emerald Street Community Farm
Arcadia Commons
Frankford Avenue Garden
Transit
Airport
Philadelphia International
23 min drive
Subway
Huntingdon
Subway
York-Dauphin
Bus
Cumberland St & Frankford Av
Bus
Dauphin St & Coral St
Bus
Frankford Av & Susquehanna Av
Bus
Huntingdon St & Kensington Av
Bus
Cumberland St & Coral St
Bus
Front St & Dauphin St
Bus
Huntingdon St & Emerald St
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.06 Reviews
3.0Niche User
2/3/2016Niche Review
The area is still a little dirty but is gradually getting better with nicer houses and more restaurants moving in, it is slowly becoming a nicer area to live.
5.0Current Resident
6/28/2017Niche Review
East Kensington is a lively diverse community. It is the home to many families, businesses, and murals. The art scene in the neighborhood is blossoming and creating a space for individuals to express themselves and generated an audience to share it with.
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East Kensington Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in East Kensington, Philadelphia sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in East Kensington, Philadelphia over the last 12 months is $405,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
A beautifully done high end renovation. The home features 2 bedrooms and 1 bath and is just a quick walk to Fishtown’s best restaurants and coffee shops. Step inside to original hardwood floors and an open-concept living space. The kitchen features brand new stainless steel appliances, brand new cabinets with ample storage, and sleek quartz countertops. Upstairs, enjoy your very own luxurious
Michael GrimshawFirst Heritage Realty Alliance, LLC
Welcome to 2440 Jasper Street, a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath townhouse nestled in the heart of East Kensington—just steps from Fishtown and some of Philadelphia’s most dynamic restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. This classic brick rowhome offers over 1,000 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space, making it an excellent opportunity for first-time buyers, savvy investors, or anyone looking
Welcome to 2036 E Boston Street—a bright, move-in ready townhome nestled in one of Philly’s fastest-growing neighborhoods. Step inside to find a cozy yet functional layout that flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen, making entertaining easy and inviting. The open-concept main level features warm hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and a thoughtfully updated kitchen complete with
Welcome home to 2317 Jasper St, Philadelphia PA 19125 . This stunningly renovated townhome featuring three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, open concept living with a fully finished basement and a private back yard for entertainers dream. If you have been renting and are tired of throwing your money out the window, this gem is definately a great choice to build equity. Better yet, you
Welcome to 2036 E Boston Street—a bright, move-in ready townhome nestled in one of Philly’s fastest-growing neighborhoods. Step inside to find a cozy yet functional layout that flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen, making entertaining easy and inviting. The open-concept main level features warm hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and a thoughtfully updated kitchen complete with
Hand-selected with you in mind, the state-of-the-art luxuries and chic urban residences of Hagert & York deliver a thrilling lifestyle to the heart of Fishtown. Here, a transit-friendly location where anything is possible allows for seamless daily transitions, while bringing unforgettable Fishtown experiences right to your doorstep.
Welcome to 2514 Frankford Avenue #2! Experience modern city living in this beautifully designed bi-level condo featuring 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Step inside and be greeted by hardwood floors throughout, and large windows allowing tons of natural light. The modern kitchen is a chef’s dream, boasting a large island, sleek quartz countertops, and GE stainless steel appliances.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jordon Hafetz,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
7,560
Median Age
36
Population Density
44 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
7.4%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$99,178
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$101,646
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
86.6%
College Graduates
57.3%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
25.9%
% Population in Labor Force
80.7%
Above the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
46''
Average Winter Low Temperature
27°F
Average Summer High Temperature
88°F
Annual Snowfall
15''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
81/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
88/ 100
Good Transit
Transit Score®
69/ 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.
