HOUSING GUIDE 2019 WHARTON MBA - HOUSING DATA NEIGHBORHOODS EXPLAINED APARTMENT RATINGS - VeryApt
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REVIEWS AND ADVICE
FROM 1,500+ STUDENTS
WHARTON MBA
HOUSING GUIDE
2019
HOUSING DATA TOP PROPERTIES
NEIGHBORHOODS EXPLAINED LANDLORD INFO
APARTMENT RATINGS RENTER RESOURCES
Intelligent Apartment Search
TABLE OF CONTENTS GETTING THE MOST OUT OF THE GUIDE
Start with the Housing Facts section. This section
should help you determine the type of apartment you'd
5 HOUSING FACTS like to live in and how much you should expect to pay
Our data on housing in rent.
Read about different neighborhoods and narrow down
your search to parts of the city that you like most.
6 NEIGHBORHOODS OVERVIEW
Most popular neighborhoods for
Use the Apartment Ratings section to identify the
Wharton MBA students
best apartment buildings across the categories (e.g.
7 Rittenhouse Square best amenities, highest rated) that matter most to you.
8 Fitler Square
Visit VeryApt.com to read reviews, get pricing, and set
9 Logan Square
up appointments for the apartments you like most.
10 Graduate Hospital
12 DATA TABLE ABOUT THE DATA IN THIS GUIDE
Compiled from Wharton MBA student
reviews All of the data in this guide are based on feedback from Wharton
MBA students. We asked students to rate their apartments on a
scale of 1-10 across six categories:
16 APARTMENT RATINGS
Top apartments, based on the feedback
of Wharton MBA students
16 Most Popular
18 Highest Rated
20 Best for Amenities
23 Best for Families Overall Value Management
25 Best for Value
27 Best for Pet Owners
29 Best for Property Service
33 LANDLORDS
Ratings for landlords and management Amenities Location Safety
companies
Based on their feedback, we compiled a list of the best apartment
buildings for incoming Wharton MBA students. If you are
interested in additional data that is not in the guide or have a
housing question, you can reach us at contact@veryapt.com.
DISCLAIMER: The reviews and ratings presented throughout the guide and the
VeryApt website do not reflect the opinions, position, or endorsement of VeryApt.
The responses and reviews presented are solely those of the survey respondents.
VeryApt assumes no responsibility for readers' or users' interpretation of the data.
The results do not in any way constitute a warranty or representation by VeryApt
as to the quality, safety, or other features of a property. We encourage you to
check all available sources of information about properties prior to renting.
Start your apartment search today!
Visit VeryApt.com to read reviews, get pricing, and set up
appointments for the apartments you like the most. Julia Rizio
Head Concierge, Philadelphia
Call/Text us at (215) 234-1719 and get connected directly with a juliar@veryapt.com
concierge that will guide you through the rental process.
1 60-90 days 2
before move-in-date
Use our personalized search Read renter reviews and our
VeryApt’s apartment search algorithm makes neighborhood guides
finding the perfect apartment seamless and Narrow your search by reading apartment
easy. Want to live in a building with a fitness reviews from real renters and exploring our
center, located in a happening neighborhood, neighborhood guides. Take a look at our
which is a 20-minute bike ride from your curated “Signature Spots” to get a feel for your
office? No problem! VeryApt’s personalized next apartment and its surrounding
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rentals to find you that perfect place to call
home.
45-60 days
before move-in-date
3
Connect with the VeryApt
4
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and you’ll quickly get connected with VeryApt’s Sign your lease
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have a short-list, we’ll take care of scheduling concierge.
your tour and providing transportation from
first stop to last!
5
15-30 days
VeryApt makes finding before move-in-date Prepare to move
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prepped for your move. We’ve researched
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renter!
3
Renters Excellent Service!
LOVE
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website with every apartment. I selected the places I
was interested in and they scheduled all my
walkthroughs. They made it very easy.
- MATTHEW A.
VeryApt The most user-friendly application
Real testimonials from our users
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- LUIS P.
Honestly, if there were 6 stars, I would have rated
VeryApt 6 stars. I cannot express how easy VeryApt
made the apartment hunting process for me. The level
of service that VeryApt provides is excellent. The Excellent experience from start to finish
website provides a wealth of information and the tools
that you can use to help narrow down your search were Upon first contact, Julia talked me through all the basic
fantastic. Additionally, you get to speak with someone requirements I had for a place, and put together a list of
that helps you narrow it down even further, then sets places that were a great fit based on my preferences.
up your viewings and accompanies you as you see the Julia (and VeryApt as a whole) were extremely flexible
apartments. It is very helpful to have someone with you based on my schedule restrictions and change in
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because he or she knows what questions to ask on do was show up and focus on my future home. Julia
your behalf. If I ever move again, I will definitely use helped immensely in answering (and asking) pertinent
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- JEREMY T. sure I was ok (and also provided a handy moving
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- JEFF H.
I recommend this website 100%
The attention that was given was always on point. They
answered all of my doubts at any hour, even if it was
Let us help you find an apartment!
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professional way. My agent even showed me VISIT
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- MICHELLE G. (215) 234-1719
4
Where Wharton MBA students Who Wharton MBA students
live live with
55% Rittenhouse Square
35% Alone
29% Fitler Square
30% Spouse/partner
10% Logan Square
30% Roommate
5% Graduate Hospital
(excluding spouse/
1% Other partner)
7% of Wharton MBA students live with pets
5% of Wharton MBA students have children
What type of properties What size residences Wharton
Wharton MBA students live in MBA students live in
65% Large property (50+ 20% Studios
units)
35% One bedrooms
30% Small property (1-9
units) 30% Two bedrooms
5% Mid-size property 15% Three or more
(20-49 units) bedrooms
Distribution of property ratings Average rent by apartment size
$1,550
Studio
$1,930
1BR
$2,635
2BR
15% 15% 30% 40% $3,945
3BR
0 - 6.9 7 - 7.9 8 - 8.9 9+
Rent versus own Commute methods
99%
Rent
1%
Own
50% 20% 20% 10%
Walking Public Taxi/Ride Biking
Transit Share
5
NEIGHBORHOODS EXPLAINED
An overview of the most popular neighborhoods for Wharton MBA students
1 Rittenhouse Square 2 Fitler Square Other Neighborhoods
55% of Wharton MBA students 29% of Wharton MBA students Under 1% each
Rittenhouse Square is located in Center Situated right along the Schuylkill River,
City and is home to some of the city's Fitler Square is a quaint neighborhood 5 Fairmount
best restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. full of old-school Philadelphia charm. It's
The neighborhood has luxury high-rises part of a larger area more commonly
with beautiful views of the the park and referred to as 'Schuylkill' that's also 6 Chinatown
has quick access to popular transit. comprised of Devil's Pocket and Grays
Ferry.
7 Bella Vista
3 Logan Square 4 Graduate Hosptial 8 Point Breeze
10% of Wharton MBA students 5% of Wharton MBA students
Corporate offices and historic buildings, Single family homes populate Graduate
including City Hall, span across Logan Hospital. An up and coming
Square. While this neighborhood is a neighborhood, Graduate Hospital is a
corporate hub, its wide streets also mix of established institutions and
attract city events such as the trendy newcomers. South Street
Philadelphia Marathon or Fourth of July continues to attract the most action,
concert. accumulating restaurants and bars that
add to this neighborhood's cool vibe.
6
Rittenhouse Square
Luxury Properties in the Heart of Center City
ABOUT RITTENHOUSE SQUARE
Rittenhouse Square is located in Center City
and is home to some of the city's best
restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. The
neighborhood has luxury high-rises with
beautiful views of the the park as well as quick
access to transit.
Amazing Charm
Great Independent Restaurants
Central Location Extremely Safe
Pricey Great Public Transit Access
MEDIAN RENTS IN RITTENHOUSE SQUARE
$1,530 $1,850 $2,575
Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
WHAT RESIDENTS THINK ABOUT RITTENHOUSE SQUARE
Review by Local Resident RITTENHOUSE SAVOY Review by Local Resident THE RITTENHOUSE SAVOY
A great place to live if you're new to Philadelphia. Living in Rittenhouse Square you are right in the middle
Extraordinarily safe -- no problems walking alone 24 of everything. It's a 20-30 minute walk to Penn but also
hours per day. Convenient to groceries (though kind of an easy bus ride on the 21/42 (two of the more reliable
overpriced, like everything in the area), drugstore, lots of SEPTA lines). It can be a little noisy and crowded but it
food and shopping. Easy access to lots of transit options is also incredibly safe and one of the only parts of the
like the city bus, trolley, and subway lines, and obviously city where I feel totally comfortable at any time of night.
never any trouble getting picked up by a rideshare. Likewise it is more commercial and just less "charming"
than living in a neighborhood like Fitler Square.
7
Fitler Square
Quaint Neighborhood Full of Philadelphia Charm
ABOUT FITLER SQUARE
Situated right along the Schuylkill River, Fitler
Square is a quaint neighborhood full of
Philadelphia charm. It's part of a larger area
more commonly referred to as 'Schuylkill'
that's also comprised of Devil's Pocket and
Grays Ferry. Renters rave about this area for
the nearby parks and fantastic restaurants.
Great Parks Walkable Quaint
Trader Joe's Prime Location
Public Transit Very Safe
MEDIAN RENTS IN FITLER SQUARE
$1,500 $2,140 $3,130
Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
WHAT RESIDENTS THINK ABOUT FITLER SQUARE
Review by Local Resident LOCUST ON THE PARK Review by Local Resident VAN PELT ON SQUARE
Quiet, charming part of town next to the river and close Great neighborhood! Very quiet and full of families. I've
to both U Penn and Rittenhouse square. Safe, beautiful never felt unsafe walking home late at night. Close walk
and great for dog walking/watching. Not a lot of stores to Fitler and Schuylkill River Park. A few little
or coffee shops around but close enough to Trader Joes restaurants and shops nearby.
and Rittenhouse Square.
8
Logan Square
Luxury High Rises and Corporate Office Buildings in
Center City
ABOUT LOGAN SQUARE
Corporate offices and historic buildings,
including City Hall, span across Logan Square.
While this neighborhood is a corporate hub, its
wide streets also attract city events such as
the Philadelphia Marathon and the Fourth of
July concert.
Great Location
Plenty of Restaurants and Bars Safe
Clean Schuylkill River Trail
Trolley Walkable
MEDIAN RENTS IN LOGAN SQUARE
$1,560 $2,030 $2,700
Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
WHAT RESIDENTS THINK ABOUT LOGAN SQUARE
Review by Local Resident STERLING APTS. Review by Local Resident 2040 MARKET
Mostly corporate area with several fast casual options. Right next to Market street and Trader Joe's, and also 5
Very close to Whole Foods in Fairmont, Schuykill River min walk to Rittenhouse. Also right next to 22nd St
Trail, and 30th St train station which are a huge bonus. SEPTA trolley station.
Get's quiet at night but does not feel unsafe!
9
Graduate Hospital
Revitalized Neighborhood That's Quickly Becoming a
Hotspot
ABOUT GRADUATE HOSPITAL
Single family homes populate Graduate
Hospital and the neighborhood is seen as a mix
of established institutions and trendy
newcomers. South Street continues to attract
the most action, accumulating restaurants and
bars that add to the cool vibe.
Philly's Best Kept Secret Affordable
Very Walkable Nice People
Lots of Families
MEDIAN RENTS IN GRADUATE HOSPITAL
$1,440 $1,770 $2,500
Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
WHAT RESIDENTS THINK ABOUT GRADUATE HOSPITAL
Review by Local Resident NAVAL SQUARE Review by Local Resident 2544 MONTROSE ST
Devil's Pocket/Grad Hospital has come a long way in Very quiet and peaceful -- mostly residential homes, so
the last 10 years. It has become very family friendly and it is a good place to live, but the downside is that there
a lot of stores have opened up that cater to young are very few restaurants/bars and other things to do
couples with kids. (need to walk north to Rittenhouse or Center City). It is
a recently gentrified area so prices have been going up,
and some streets are not as well-maintained, but
generally safe and the location is a good in-between
Penn's campus and Center City.
10APARTMENT KEY
Excellent for a category
RATINGS
•••• $$$$ $2040+ per renter
••• Great $$$ $1830- $2039
•• Average $$ $1620- $1829
• Below average $ < $1620
* Prices subject to change and may
vary significantly by room type
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1500 Locust Apt 8.0 $$$ ••• •••• •• ••• ••
1501 Locust Apt 7.5 $$$ •••• •• •• ••• ••
1512 Walnut Apt 8.0 $$ ••• • • •• •
1600 Chestnut Apt 8.7 $$ •••• •• •••• • •
1700 Chestnut Apt 8.6 $$$ •••• •••• ••• •••• •••
1900 Arch Street Apt 7.3 $$ •• ••• • •• ••
1919 Market Apt 9.6 $$$$ •••• •••• •• •••• ••••
2040 Market Apartments Apt 7.1 $$$ • • •• • •
2116 Chestnut Apt 8.7 $$$$ •• •••• • •••• •••
2121 Market Street Apt 8.2 $$ •• ••• •••• •• ••••
2400 Chestnut Apartments Apt 8.3 $$ •••• ••• •••• •• •••
3737 Chestnut Apt 8.8 $$$$ •••• •••• ••• • •••
AKA University City Apt 10.0 $$$$ •••• •••• ••• •••• ••••
AQ Rittenhouse Apt 7.7 $$ • •• • •• ••
Arrive University City Apt 9.2 $$$ •• •••• ••• •• ••••
Avenir Apt 8.1 $ •• •••• •• •• •
Chestnut View Condos Condo 9.1 $$ •• •• •••• ••• •••
Edgewater Apt 9.0 $$$ •••• •••• ••• •••• •
Fitler Commons Apt 7.3 $ • • •••• • •
Franklin Tower Residences Apt 7.9 $$$ •• •••• • •• ••
Griffin Center City Apt 9.1 $$$$ •••• •••• ••• •••• ••••
Icon Apt 9.5 $$$$ • •••• • ••• •••
** Buildings with fewer than 3 reviews or ratings below 7.0 are not listed in this guide but reviews can be found online at VeryApt.com.
*** Some buildings with fewer than 3 reviews are included above because of high ratings but do not appear in the top 10 lists.
12APARTMENT
RATINGS
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Locust on the Park Apt 8.2 $$$$ ••• ••• • • ••
Naval Square Condo 9.5 $$ •••• •••• •••• •••• ••••
Parc Rittenhouse Condo 8.6 $$$ ••• •••• • •••• •••
Park Towne Place Premier Apt 8.2 $$ ••• •••• ••• ••• •••
Presidential City Apartments Apt 8.0 $ •• •••• ••• •••• ••••
Rittenhouse Claridge Apt 7.9 $$$ ••• ••• •• •••• ••
Riverwest Condominiums Condo 7.3 $ • •• ••• ••• •
Southstar Lofts Apt 8.2 $$$ •••• ••• •••• •• ••••
The Beacon Apt 9.0 $$$$ •••• •••• •••• •••• •••
The Belgravia Condos Condo 8.9 $$$ •••• ••• •••• •• ••
The Carlyle Apt 7.2 $ • • •• • •••
The Chatham Apt 8.3 $ ••• • •••• • •
The Coronado Condo 8.4 $ •• • •••• ••• •••
The Dorchester Condo 7.7 $$ • •• • •• ••
The Lofts at 1835 Arch Street Apt 9.0 $$$ •••• ••• •• • ••••
The Murano Condo 8.9 $$$$ •• •• •• ••• ••
The Pepper Building Apt 9.0 $$ •••• ••• •••• •• ••••
The Republic Apt 8.0 $$$$ •• •• ••• ••• ••
The Rittenhouse Savoy Condo 8.1 $$$ ••• •• •• • ••
The Riverloft Apartments Apt 7.7 $$$$ •• ••• • ••• ••
The Sterling Apartments Apt 7.8 $$$ ••• ••• •• •• ••
The Townhouse Apartments Apt 7.9 $$ •• • •• • •••
The Wanamaker House Condo 8.0 $$ ••• •• •• ••• •••
The Warwick Condos Condo 8.8 $$$$ ••• ••• ••• ••• •••
The Wellington Apt 8.1 $$$$ •• • •• • ••
ABOUT OUR CATEGORIES Living Situation Ratings
Property Type Families How students with partners and/or children rated the building.
Pet Owners How students with pets rated the building.
Apartment (Apt) Properties with one building manager. Often have
consistent pricing/features.
Building Quality Ratings
Condo Properties with multiple owners. Lease terms and
features can vary significantly by unit. Management Maintenance and service quality.
Amenities In-room and building features beyond the basics.
Key Building Factor Ratings Value Building quality given cost of rent.
Overall Rating Overall feedback on building quality. Social Building community and social scene.
Popularity Estimated # of students in the building. Safety Building neighborhood safety.
14MOST 1 st
2116 CHESTNUT
Fitler Square
$$$$ 60+
PEOPLE
POPULAR
Popular Wharton MBA Buildings
READ MORE REVIEWS AT VERYAPT.COM
Review by Wharton MBA Student
LIVING IN PHILLY “I would highly recommend 2116 to any incoming student. While
it's a bit pricier than other housing options in the area, I think the
price is totally worth the added security and convenience. There
Words of wisdom from a former are a lot of Wharton students in the building which makes it
easy to get Ubers to class in the AM. The building is in great
WGA President shape and has a very responsive management team. The studio
apartments are massive and you can't beat in-unit laundry
machines! I recommend leasing early to get the best price.”
Tell us about the WGA and your role as President.
“The Wharton Graduate Association (WGA) is a 100% student-run
2 nd
THE WANAMAKER HOUSE $$$ 35+
organization that drives all student activities and initiatives related PEOPLE
to academic, career, and social life at Wharton. WGA advocates on Rittenhouse Square
behalf of the entire Wharton student body, interacts with faculty
and administration, and operates an entirely independent 501(c)3
organization with a $5M+ operating budget. As president, I lead a
team of 30+ students working on behalf of the student. I also set
our strategic goals for the year and spearhead WGA initiatives. I am
super excited to welcome our incoming class!”
What do you enjoy most about living in Philly?
Review by Wharton MBA Student
“I most enjoy how close I live to many of my friends. Most Wharton
students live in the Rittenhouse neighborhood, so essentially each “Building location is probably the best in Philadelphia. Units are
very well lit given the large windows. If you’re lucky you could get
of my friends lives within 10 square blocks from me. This makes it 1. a great view, and 2. a renovated unit. I got both. Wharton
easy to hangout and build strong ties, when we are off campus. I community is great. This is great for ridesharing."
also love BYO restaurants, and Philly is famous for this!”
How do you find a roommate?
3 rd
“I have 2 roommates currently and I knew them before school. We
1919 MARKET $$$$ 25+
PEOPLE
all applied together and got in! If this wasn't the case, I could have Logan Square
easily found potential roommates at Welcome Weekend or the
admitted students happy hours hosted in each city (NYC, DC, SF
etc.).”
Chanel is from Union, NJ and is a former WGA President at Wharton.
Review by Wharton MBA Student
“1919 Market is a new, high-end building that is great to live in.
Fantastic floorplans and finishes; everything works as it should;
and responsive, friendly management. Quiet building, don't hear
the neighbors around you. Expansive common area, roofdeck,
gym, and pool that facilitate meeting neighbors and social
gatherings amongst friends.”
16HIGHEST 1 st
1919 MARKET
Logan Square, 1919 Market St
$$$$ 9.6
OVERALL
RATED
RATIING
Buildings with the best overall ratings
READ MORE REVIEWS AT VERYAPT.COM
Review by Wharton MBA Student
MOVING TO “The rent is a bit higher than the average of the area. But this
property's facility (including gym, pool and party space at the
PHILADELPHIA roof top) is awesome. The location is also ideal. (We have a good
access to the nearest SEPTA trolley station.)”
Getting adjusted to life in Philly
2 nd
ICON $$ 9.5
OVERALL
Do you have any suggestions on where incoming students should Rittenhouse Square, 1616 Walnut St RATIING
think about living?
“I would think about how you want to spend your time outside of
class. I live near the northeast corner of Rittenhouse Park and I love
it. There are tons of popular restaurants, bars, and shops nearby,
though Trader Joe’s and 2401 are a bit far (i.e., more than 10 mins
away). My building is great—I don’t need to pay for a gym or trek
over to Pottruck, there’s a great lounge (with free printing!) and roof
to have people over to, utilities are included so I only pay for rent
and internet, etc. There are several Wharton students in my Review by Wharton MBA Student
building, so I can always carpool to class but not too many that I’m “The Icon has been an amazing place to live. The location is
worried about running into someone every time I leave.” fantastic and management has been good. The units are on the
smaller end for the price, but I'd definitely recommend it to
Can you give us some quick advice about adjusting to school and anyone looking for a nice higher end apartment on Walnut.”
Philadelphia?
“I absolutely love Wharton and Philadelphia, but it’s easy to get 3 rd
overwhelmed. I think it’s important to explore as much as possible ARRIVE UNIVERSITY CITY 9.2
early on because both Wharton and Philly have so much to offer, University City, 3601 Market St
$$ OVERALL
RATIING
but I think the people who are really able to take advantage of being
here are the ones that can quickly identify what they want to
prioritize. Things will always come up, but to the best of your ability,
understand what you really want to commit to and be honest with
your ability to meet those commitments, for your own sake and the
sake of others.”
What are some of your favorite local spots in Philly?
“I love grocery shopping at Hung Vuong (the Vietnamese Review by Wharton MBA Student
supermarket). It’s inexpensive and there are several good “I had no idea that I would love living in University City so much.
restaurants nearby. Gran Caffe L’Aquila was the first restaurant I ate I moved to this modern glass high rise at 36th and Market after
at when I first moved to Philly and is nice for large group special living in a similar (but much smaller) apartment in Rittenhouse
events.” Sq last year. We needed a bigger apartment and garage parking,
and the prices on this side of the Schuylkill were about $2,000
per month less for 2 bedrooms + parking. That has worked out
Cessna is from Arlington, TX, loves yoga, and previously served as WGA very well - there's plenty of parking in the building garage and it
’19 Cluster 4 President. was included for no extra charge, plus they gave us an extra
parking pass for guests."
18BEST FOR 1 st
ARRIVE UNIVERSITY CITY $$$
University City
9.8
AMENITY
AMENITIES
RATING
Highest-rated properties for amenities
READ MORE REVIEWS AT VERYAPT.COM
Review by Anonymous
What top amenity properties typically offer: “I chose to live here because I thought it would make everything
about 1L "easier" - and to the extent that a living situation can
make things easier, it has! It's a 4 minute walk to school,
extremely quiet (can't hear my neighbors at all), has a gym, and
parking (for an additional fee - but I've found I really don't need a
Great common spaces car here at all), is clean, and has great mail service. If you're
looking for an easy place to live that has it all, this is the place”
Convenient location
Excellent management
2 nd
Newer construction GRIFFIN CENTER CITY $$$$ 9.7
AMENITY
Midtown Village RATING
TOP 10
ARRIVE UNIVERSITY Review by Wharton MBA Student
1st
CITY 9.8 AMENITY
RATING
“I love it here. Awesome location, high end amenities, incredible
views, and friendly young professional neighbors. While the
Griffin isn't cheap, it's still a much better deal than comparable
2nd GRIFFIN CENTER CITY 9.7 AMENITY
RATING options near Rittenhouse and the Midtown Village neighborhood
has a lot more going on. Highly recommend!”
PRESIDENTIAL CITY
3rd
APARTMENTS 9.6 AMENITY
RATING
3 rd
PRESIDENTIAL CITY APARTMENTS 9.6
$$
4th EDGEWATER 9.5 AMENITY
RATING West Philadelphia
AMENITY
RATING
PARK TOWNE PLACE
4th
PREMIER 9.5 AMENITY
RATING
6th NAVAL SQUARE 9.4 AMENITY
RATING
7th 1919 MARKET 9.3 AMENITY
RATING Review by Chantee, Wharton MBA Student
“For the unconventional who want to live outside of Rittenhouse,
Presidential offers great amenities such as Infinity Swimming
8th 3737 CHESTNUT 9.1 AMENITY
RATING
Pools, Hot Tubs, Steam Rooms, work out facilities and free
classes, study rooms, and front door attendants.”
9th 1700 CHESTNUT 9.0 AMENITY
RATING
FRANKLIN TOWER
9th
RESIDENCES 9.0 AMENITY
RATING
20BEST FOR 1 st
NAVAL SQUARE
Devil's Pocket, 1 Academy Cir
$$$$
FAMILIES
Highest rated properties by couples and families
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Review by Wharton MBA Student
PARTNERS AND “Phenomenal spot for families. Hard to get into, and can be
expensive, but it is well worth it. Cannot imagine life another way
FAMILIES here in Philly.”
Advice from a former Wharton
2 nd
parent EDGEWATER
Logan Square, 2323 Race St
$$
What should incoming students/partners know about moving to
Philly with a partner and/or children?
“They are welcome! Both at Wharton and in Philadelphia, having a
family has been an incredible experience. Families are always
welcome at Wharton events and Philadelphia is full of opportunities
to explore and create memories. If you have school aged children,
there are great places to live in great school districts, I suggest Fitler
Square.”
Review by Troy, Graduate Student '15
What is your favorite family-friendly spot in Philly? “Great building for those with children. Very safe and has a large
fenced in area in the back with grills and open space. Works well
“This is actually a really hard question, there are so many fun spots for kids or events. Free parking for Wharton students.”
in Philly. To pick one, I would say the Philadelphia Zoo. It’s right in
town and our kids love all of the animals and interactive exhibits. A
season pass is inexpensive and it’s so close you can go for an hour 3 rd
or all day depending on your schedule that day.” PARK TOWNE PLACE PREMIER $$$$
Logan Square, 2200 Benjamin Franklin
Do you have any suggestions on where incoming students should
think about living? Pkwy
“If you have a family I highly recommend living in Fitler Square. It’s
in the best school district in Center City, is a close walk to campus,
close walk to Rittenhouse Square and 2401, is filled with parks and
great restaurants, and has a great family vibe. If you’re coming in
single or without kids, then most of Wharton lives in Rittenhouse
Square in the various high rises, the apartments on 17th and Ionic St
are very unique and are close to everything.” Review by Philadelphia Resident
“The amenities here are unreal! Beautiful pool with cabanas and
outdoor bar; recreation center with billiards, yoga studio, art
studio, in-house dry cleaner, small market for groceries and
George Dutile lived with his family of four while he studied for his MBA specialty items, coffee stand, amazing gym, theater, etc. It's like
at Wharton. living at a resort! Best part of all? My balcony view of the
Philadelphia Art Museum and the Parkway. Perfect Philly
location. I love living here!”
23BEST FOR 1 st
THE CHATHAM
Rittenhouse Square, 135 S 20th St
$ 9.6
VALUE
VALUE
RATING
Buildings with the Best Bang for Your Buck
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Review by Graduate Student
See below for an insider's note: “The Chatham gives you the largest space for the least amount
of money in Rittenhouse Square. There is a 24 hour doorman
which was important to me. The hallways are pink and look
really sketchy, but the apartments are very large, spacious, have
wood floors and crown molding, and all utilities are included."
Neighborhood Affordability
How rent varies by neighborhood
2 nd
Renting with roommates in a 3BR is the CHESTNUT VIEW CONDOS $$ 9.5
VALUE
Rittenhouse Square, 37 S 20th St
cheapest option. Average rent per person for a RATING
3BR is right around $1,300 and can decrease
based on the neighborhood you choose.
To give you a better sense of local
neighborhoods and pricing, here is a
breakdown of what it costs to rent a 1BR:
Review by Anonymous
Logan Square: “I love living here! I have a 750 sq ft 1 bed 1 bath corner unit in a
central location. The building is mainly young professionals /
$1,825 non-Wharton so it doesn’t feel like a dorm. Elevator building
with laundry and trash in the basement level - not a luxury condo
but you get a much better price and space as compared to other
Rittenhouse Square: building nearby.”
$1,790
Fitler Square:
3 rd
THE CORONADO $ 9.3
$1,700 Fitler Square, 2201 Chestnut St
VALUE
RATING
Graduate Hospital:
$1,570
Washington Square West:
$1,525
Review by Wharton MBA Student
University City:
“It's an older building without the amenities you find in other
$1,250 complexes that MBAs like. But the location is great, the doorman
is friendly, and the rent is cheap. This is a no-frills, practical,
affordable place to live.”
Spruce Hill:
$1,070
Powelton Village:
$1,025
25BEST FOR 1 st
1900 ARCH STREET
Logan Square, 1900 Arch St
$$$$
PET OWNERS
Highest-rated properties for pet owners
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Review by Elise A, Wharton Student
See below for an insider's note: "All the maintenance requests I have had were taken care of in a
timely manner. It is a short walk to Rittenhouse square and all
the bars and restaurants in that area. It is also a very easy walk to
campus and there is a trolley only a block away for not so nice
days. The building is very pet friendly and they have very few
Top Dog Parks in Philly restrictions on size or breed.”
Take Your Fury Friend on a Stroll
People with dogs know how difficult it can be to 2 nd
2116 CHESTNUT $$$$
find a safe, clean, pet-friendly park. We've taken Fitler Square, 2116 Chestnut St
the liberty of researching and finding the top
dog parks in Philadelphia for you.
Schuylkill River Park Dog Run:
Located in Fitler Square, this dog park is known
as the fanciest in Philadelphia. It's a synthetic
Review by Wharton Partner
grass courtyard on the river that has a $14,000
“The apartment is modern and a nice space and the amenities
drinking fountain. are a huge perk. It costs slightly more than we planned on
spending but the private dog run sold us (we have an energetic
black lab).”
Seger Park Dog Run:
Seger Park is located in Washington Square 3 rd
West and is well-kept with a fenced-in dog run NAVAL SQUARE $$$
Devil's Pocket, 1 Academy Cir
that takes up nearly 10,000 square feet. It's a
pretty low-key park and all dogs are welcome.
Chester Avenue Dog Park:
Found right near Wharton in University City,
this park runs on a membership basis. When
you sign up, you'll have access to a kiddie pool Review by Wharton MBA Student
+ free balls and toys. “The description says it all. 10 minute bike ride or 25 minute walk
to campus, a large grass field for kids and dogs to run on, a pool,
gym, and vibrant community of young families and couples
Columbus Square Dog Park: makes this - bar none- the best place in Philly for Wharton or
Penn Med/Law students to live in.”
This park, situated by 12th and Reed Streets, is
a bit farther from the typical Wharton
neighborhoods but it's well worth the trip. It's a
large fenced-in gravel square with tree stumps
for climbing and picnic tables for owners.
27BEST FOR 1 st
THE LOFTS AT 1835 ARCH STREET
Logan Square, 1835 Arch St
$$$ 10.0
SERVICE
PROPERTY
RATING
SERVICE
Properties with the highest management ratings
Review by Wharton MBA Student
READ MORE REVIEWS AT VERYAPT.COM “This used to be a popular "Wharton" building. We got a 2B2B
and absolutely love it. The location might seem far for a lot of
What well-managed properties typically offer: people who never venture beyond Market street, but in fact, it is
really convenient: - commute to school via trolley at 19th and
Market: the apartment isBrownstones
Smaller properties and how to find them
ABOUT BROWNSTONES
Brownstones are apartments in older
buildings, typically a few stories tall. They Finding a brownstone
usually do not have a doorman, an elevator, Brownstones can be challenging to find because they tend to be
or many amenities, but can be cheaper and individually owned and do not have full time leasing managers.
more spacious than the apartment and
Brownstone listings are typically available ~60 days in advance.
condo units in high-rises.
You can find a brownstone by searching online listings, contacting
WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A BROWNSTONE a landlord directly, or by working with VeryApt's Concierge Team
who can help identify some options.
CHEAPER LARGER FLOOR PLANS
3+ BEDROOMS AVAILABLE MORE PRIVACY Preparing for a brownstone search
Most Wharton students opt for larger properties in order to live
WHY YOU MAY WANT TO AVOID A BROWNSTONE closer to other students and simplify the housing search. That said,
there are plenty of wonderful brownstones - be prepared to visit
NO DOORMAN LESS CONVENIENT LOCATIONS more properties to find that perfect home, carefully examine the
OLDER CONSTRUCTION LIMITED AMENITIES
pros/cons, and move quickly if you find a unit you love.
MORE MAINTENANCE ISSUES
TIPS AND ADVICE
Reliable Landlords Noise and Neighbors Lease Terms
Check online reviews and talk to Sounds often travel well through Leases with independent landlords
previous tenants to find out about brownstones and you can easily be are negotiable. Check your lease for
your landlord. Look for one that disturbed by barking dogs, music, or restrictions on sub-letters and visitor
responds quickly to maintenance construction. Check out the policies. You may be able to avoid a
requests and has a history of surrounding area to get a sense for rent increase by locking in a longer
returning deposits. what it may be like. lease.LANDLORD GRADES
and the Renting Process
GRADE LANDLORD Understanding
A- AIMCO THE RENTING PROCESS
B+ AMC Delancey If this is your first time renting, here is a heads
up on what the process is like:
B Addison Real Estate
B+ Allan Domb Application process
You will be asked to fill out an application for an
B+ Alterra Property Group apartment. Likely this will include an application fee
($30-50) and potentially a deposit (up to one
A- Asset Campus Housing month’s rent). If you’re an international student, you
may have to provide alternate information - in the
A Bozzuto Management absence of a social security number, bank accounts,
etc., often landlords will accept your visa documents
C+ Centra Associates and acceptance letter. Landlords will use your
information to approve you based only on your credit
A Forest City
history and income. In the event where there are
A- Greystar issues, a landlord may grant the application on the
condition that a guarantor cosigns the lease.
A- Kaiserman Company
A+ Korman Residential Properties After you're approved
A landlord will often ask for a security deposit and
A+ LCOR Inc. prepaid rent. A landlord typically charges up to two
months' rent as a security deposit and will ask for up
B+ Michael Singer Real Estate to two months in prepaid rent. Anything beyond this
is more than normal. At the end of your lease and
C PMC Property Group after you give proper notification that you are
moving out (typically 60-90 days), the landlord has
A- PRDC Properties 30 days to return the security deposit at the end of
the lease. The landlord may not return the deposit in
C Panco Management
full if there are claimed damages to the property or
A- Pearl Properties other charges outstanding.
B+ Post Brothers Real Estate What to look out for
C+ Reinhold Residential Check for additional charges or obligations that could
cost you more than the listed price of a property. This
A Rittenhouse Management Company could include move-in/move-out fees, renters
insurance requirements, condo fees, common
A- Turchi Properties electrical fees, etc. Definitely ask about what previous
electrical/utility bills have been to get a feel for any
additional monthly costs there may be. Be sure to
research the landlord and management company
Landlord Grades before placing any sort of deposit. If you have any
Grades were assigned to landlords by using a specific questions, feel free to reach out to us at
combination of management ratings and overall contact@veryapt.com.
ratings for the properties they manage.
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