It is difficult to live in any new city, but that difficulty can be amplified when you move to a big, bustling city like Philadelphia. Home to some of the world’s most sought-after attractions, extensive opportunities to learn about our nation’s history, and sports fans with a HUGE reputation, Philly can sometimes be overwhelming. But don’t worry — it doesn’t have to be! These cheat tips will help you to survive your first year living in the City of Brotherly Love.

Take a Tour

If you’re new to the city, it’s always smart to take a tour beforehand with someone who knows the area. Becoming acquainted with the city’s layout and attractions will make you feel more comfortable in your new home and ensure that you can get around successfully on your own. Philadelphia offers many public tours as well as private tours you can book online, and a local tour guide will be happy to answer any questions. Once you’re settled on a neighborhood, you can then spend some time researching the best routes to work, places to park, and public transit options for your area.

 

Choose the Right Neighborhood

Once you have a handle on the various neighborhoods, you’ll be able to get a sense of which apartments or Philadelphia houses for sale are for you. While there are some great neighborhoods in center city, many people find that living in the suburbs is more their style. Consider what your needs are, and scoop up a spot that fits your qualifications, such as distance from work or your budget. Fortunately, Philadelphia housing is fairly inexpensive compared to other major cities in the U.S. You should have plenty of options when choosing the right area. 

To make your first year a little bit easier, try to choose an area that makes you feel comfortable. Is there a type of cuisine you enjoy? Check out what restaurants are in the area. Do you love live music? There are plenty of great venues around the city that are easy to get to by car, train, or on foot. Not only do you need to feel at home within your four walls, you always want to feel like the neighborhood itself feels like “home” to you. 

 

Make Friends

Once you have settled into your home, it is time to start meeting people in the city. Philly is a great city for making friends, and there are plenty of places to do so. Try going to some of the popular food festivals, like the Italian Market Festival (the area’s largest block party), or check out your local coffee shop on a Saturday morning. Live shows are also a terrific way to make friends. If musicals and plays are your thing, check out the Kimmel Center for an incredible production. If you’re more of a live band kind of person, the Fillmore, Theatre of The Living Arts, and Franklin Music Hall are some of the most popular spots in town.

It’s no secret that Philadelphia is home to some serious sports lovers. Fellow sports fans should look into joining their local sports bars and leagues as a way to connect with others. You’ll get to meet other Philly sports fans and cheer on your (new) favorite teams together.

 

Explore

Living in Philly can be a great experience, but it’s easy to find yourself wrapped up in work and enjoying your new home that you forget to look outside your door. Don’t forget to explore all that the city has to offer — from the art and culture scene to the delicious cuisine options you’ll find in Philly. With so much to do and see, you’ll never be bored.

It’s important to remain positive and be patient when you live in a new city. Don’t panic if things don’t go according to plan the first time — just take it one step at a time. With the right attitude and the tips outlined here, you’ll be well on your way to surviving your first year living in Philadelphia!

 

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