Student Housing in Philadelphia

The average cost of living in Philadelphia is around $2,800-$2,900/month, covering student apartments in Philadelphia, PA, food, utilities, and more. It is rougly 7%-14% higher than the national average, but is significantly more affordable than New York or DC. Understanding your living expenses is the first step to a great student life. A smart budget helps you stay in control and enjoy a stress-free experience. The following is the cost of living in Philadelphia:

1. Student apartments in Philadelphia: The student rentals are about $479-$10,800 per month. Most of our housing includes bills. 
2. Food: $300-$450/month
3. Transport: $100-$130/month (including SEPTA passes)
4. Utilities: $150-$200/month (including internet)
5. Clothing: $50-$100/month 
6. Sport & Leisure: $70-$120/month  

Philadelphia is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its rich academic environment. Home of the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Temple University, it's a place where students from all over the world come to pursue their dreams and shape their futures. In addition, Philadelphia student rentals are abundant, making it easy to find an ideal home that balances your studies and personal life. Here are the top universities in Philadelphia, each known for its unique strengths and contributions to education.

1. University of Pennsylvania: Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League institution that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. The University of Pennsylvania ranks 15th in the 2026 QS World University Rankings, proving its status as a world-class institution. It is a top choice for students pursuing degrees in economics, Nursing, Biology, Computer Science, and International Relations.
2. Temple University: Located in North Philadelphia, Temple University is a public research institution known for its diverse student body and strong emphasis on community engagement. Temple University ranks 721-730 in the QS World University Rankings. It is a top choice for students pursuing degrees in Psychology, Biology, Finance, Marketing, and Communication. 
3. Drexel University: Drexel University is a private research university known for its cooperative education (co-op) program, which integrates professional work experiences with academic studies. It is ranked in the 711-720 range in the QS World University Rankings. Known for its career-focused education, the university is highly popular for its programs in Engineering, Business, Computing, Health Sciences, Media Arts, and the Arts and Sciences. 

Philadelphia is a highly walkable city with public transit operated by SEPTA, including subways, buses, trolleys, and regional rail. Whether you're a new student or continuing your studies here, understanding the transport system can help you get around from Philadelphia, PA student rentals. Here are the main modes of transportation in Philadelphia. 

• SEPTA

SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) is the backbone of Philadelphia's public transport. SEPTA offers an extensive network of buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail. SEPTA offers student discounts on weekly and monthly passes, so make sure to get your student ID to avail of these savings. The subway system features two main lines: the Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) and the Broad Street Line (Orange Line). These routes offer a fast and easy way to reach every part of the city. Additionally, the extensive bus system covers all of Philly, with select routes providing 24-hour "Night Owl" service. This ensures you always have a safe and reliable way to get home, no matter the time.

• Biking

Philadelphia is bike-friendly with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing options:

Indego Bike Share: Affordable and convenient, Indego bikes are available for rent across the city.

Bike Lanes: Safe and well-marked, the bike lanes in Philadelphia make cycling a viable daily transport option.

• Walking

Philadelphia's compact and walkable city centre means many destinations are within a short stroll. Don't forget to explore the city on foot and enjoy its rich architecture and lovely parks from your student rentals in Philadelphia.

• Ride-Sharing and Taxis

Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis are readily available in Philadelphia. While convenient, they can be pricier than public transport, so consider these for late-night rides or when you’re in a hurry.

Student life in Philadelphia offers an incredible city experience. You can explore must-see museums, enjoy a global food scene, and cheer on famous local sports teams. The city is vibrant, well-connected, and full of life. From our student rentals in Philadelphia, PA, you can easily enjoy these top activities:

• Philadelphia Tourist Places: 
  • Independence Hall: Independence Hall, a cornerstone of American history, is a distinctive spot. Located in Independence National Historical Park, it's just steps from the Liberty Bell Center, making it easy to visit both landmarks.
  • Liberty Bell Center: The Liberty Bell, a 2,000-pound symbol of freedom, is on display at the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia. No tickets are required, and access is granted daily on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Philadelphia Zoo: Established in 1859 and opened in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo is America's first and oldest zoo. Renowned as an animal care organization, educational resource, and advocate for endangered species, it is considered among the best zoos in the U.S.

• Shopping in Philly:
  • Reading Terminal Market: Reading Terminal Market, one of the country's oldest markets, opened in 1893, initially hosting hundreds of merchants selling meat, poultry, fruits, vegetables, and more. Located beneath the Reading Railroad's 1891 train station in Center City, it houses over 70 vendors offering global foods, homemade crafts, and jewellery.
  • Rittenhouse Row: Discover Rittenhouse Row, an iconic district in the heart of Philadelphia, where luxury meets lifestyle. This vibrant area is renowned for its exquisite blend of upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and rich cultural experiences.
  • South Street: South Street is practically synonymous with Philadelphia. Spanning roughly 14 blocks, South Street offers an eclectic array of independent gift shops, boutiques, and thrift stores, many of which are women- and Black-owned.

• Museums in Philly:
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art: This museum is a must-see place if you want to explore the cultural heart of Philadelphia. The museum's highlights include van Gogh's Sunflowers, the world's largest Marcel Duchamp collection, and the only dedicated Rodin Museum outside France.
  • The Franklin Institute: This museum offers fun for all ages, not just kids. Enjoy interactive exhibits like “SportsZone”, explaining the science of surfing and rock climbing, and “Changing Earth”, where you can calculate your carbon footprint. Complete a circuit with your body, observe 3D printers, and explore space at the Fels Planetarium.

Philadelphia is a top-tier historic city, home to the famous Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Our student apartments in Philadelphia are conveniently located for you to visit these landmarks. Explore these top things to do in Philadelphia from our properties:

• Independence Hall & Liberty Bell Center
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Eastern State Penitentiary
• Museum of the American Revolution
• Barnes Foundation
• National Constitution Center
• Franklin Institute
• Betsy Ross House

Yes, you can view the student accommodation in Philadelphia before booking. We offer both in-person and online tours. If you want to visit in person, contact our advisors to schedule your visit. For online tours, our property pages feature photos, videos, 3D tours, and live streams. Our Philadelphia student housing is verified, so you can book your home online with confidence. 

When booking Philadelphia student apartments through uhomes, please prepare your ID, student proof, and proof of income. You may also need guarantor documents, an application, and reference letters. Our advisors will help you ensure everything is ready for a smooth move-in. 

We offer Philadelphia student housing with a variety of room types, including single rooms, shared rooms, studios, 1B-5B+ student apartment. If you prefer private space, you can choose a studio or a 1-bedroom flat. We also offer single rooms and shared rooms for you, if you want to live with your friends. Simply click 'Room Type' on the apartment page to filter your options. No matter the room type, you'll enjoy a comfortable, convenient student life in Philly. 

When renting student apartments in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, you should consider the commute, budget, safety features, amenities, lease terms, and roommate compatibility. Our websites showcase student housing, and you can compare your favorite properties to find your perfect home. Our advisors also recommend the ideal student housing in Philly based on your lifestyle. 

The security deposit for Philadelphia student housing typically ranges from $250 to one month's rent. The exact amount depends on each apartment's specific policy. You can find detailed deposit information on our property pages, or ask our advisors for details about any student apartment you're interested in. 

You can pay for Philadelphia student accommodation via credit/debit card, bank transfer, and direct debit. The following is a specific explanation of the payment method:

• Online Payment: To pay your rent using a debit or credit card.
• Bank Transfer: You can transfer money directly from your bank account to the property providers.
• Direct Debit: Some student housing in Philadelphia also offers a direct debit option, where you can authorise them to automatically debit the rent amount from your bank account on a specific monthly date.

No, you can't dry clothes on your balcony in student rentals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Most apartment managers and HOAs prohibit this to keep the building looking clean. Even if your room has a balcony, the lease likely bans outdoor drying, and doing so could lead to a fine or a lease violation.

Yes, you can keep pets while renting student apartments in Philadelphia, PA, but some units may not allow pets. uhomes.com makes it easy to find pet-friendly apartments. You can filter your search by selecting 'pets allowed' under 'Service Features' to find a home that fits your needs. Our advisors can also recommend the best Philadelphia student rentals for you and your pet.  

Yes, most of our student rentals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, are well-equipped. Study lounges, game rooms, fitness centers, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security cameras will improve your quality of life. If you have specific needs, you can use the 'Amenities' section on our page to filter for what you're looking for. You can find the perfect home away from home that fits your lifestyle on uhomes.com. 

Yes, our student accommodation in Philadelphia, PA, has an application fee of $45 to $75 per applicant. Every applicant (roommates, co-signers, or guarantors) must pay a fee. Application fees are non-refundable. We ensure all our fees are transparent, and you can always ask our professional advisors for more details. 

The characteristics of student rooms for rent in Philadelphia include proximity to universities, well-furnished units, all-inclusive rent, and security services.

• Close to Major Universities: Our apartments are near the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Temple University. You can easily walk or hop on public transit for a quick commute.
• Fully Furnished: Most of our student rentals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, are well furnished. Each room has dedicated study spaces, comfortable bedrooms, and fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms.
• Flexible Lease Options: We offer both long-term and short-term leases to fit your specific schedule.
• All-Inclusive Rent: Most of our Philadelphia student rentals include bills for electricity, water, trash collection, and high-speed internet.
• Security: Our buildings feature 24/7 CCTV and electronic key entry. Plus, our properties are located in student-friendly neighborhoods near campus police stations and regular patrols for added peace of mind.

Yes, our student living in Philadelphia is safe. Your safety in Philly is our mission. Our student apartments are equipped with top-tier security, including 24/7 CCTV, video surveillance, security guards, and controlled access. Many of our recommended homes are in safe, student-friendly neighborhoods like University City, Chestnut Hill, and West Mount Airy. These areas have robust security measures in place to ensure you feel safe, whether you're at home or walking to class. 

Yes, our Philadelphia, PA, student apartments require renters' insurance, which costs about $15-$20/month. It covers liability and helps protect your personal belongings. It's always a good idea to have it to keep your electronics and valuables safe from risks like fire or theft.

Yes, we have many furnished student apartments for rent in Philadelphia, PA. Our verified listings are well-furnished with modern appliances and furniture. You'll find comfortable beds, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, full bathrooms, and private balconies. Check out our photos and videos for more details, or talk to our advisors to schedule an in-person tour. 

Yes, the Philadelphia rental market has a great impact on study and life. While Philly is more affordable than cities like New York, the rising costs still put a heavy financial burden on students. At uhomes.com, we understand these challenges. That's why we offer the highest cashback and exclusive deals to help ease your financial stress.

No, most student apartments for rent in Philadelphia, PA, do not allow early termination. Unless your contract has a specific move-out clause or there is a legal reason, you will usually need to keep paying rent until the lease ends. Always check your lease terms carefully before signing.

Yes, parking is available at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, student rentals. We offer secure surface parking at select student housing. To find out more about parking at your favorite house, feel free to ask our advisors.