Neighborhood Guide

Northeast Philadelphia Apartments: The Complete Renter's Guide for 2026

April 18, 2026
Northeast Philly AptsBlog › Neighborhood Guide

Northeast Philadelphia is a large, mostly residential section of the city a few miles outside Downtown. While it doesn't get the press coverage of Fishtown or Rittenhouse Square, it consistently offers more square footage, more parking, better access to green space, and lower rents than any comparable part of the city.

Why Northeast Philadelphia?

Northeast Philadelphia is a large, mostly residential section of the city a few miles outside Downtown. While it doesn't get the press coverage of Fishtown or Rittenhouse Square, it consistently offers more square footage, more parking, better access to green space, and lower rents than any comparable part of the city. Average 1-bedroom apartments here run around $1,600 per month — compared to $2,100 in Fishtown and $2,500 in Center City.

The Four Neighborhoods

Rhawnhurst sits in the heart of Northeast Philadelphia, known for its tree-lined streets, Roosevelt Mall access, and direct connection to I-95. It's one of the most established neighborhoods in the Northeast, with a strong community feel and excellent transit via the Boulevard Direct.

Far Northeast Philadelphia — often called the "Great Northeast" — is the quietest and most suburban-feeling section while still being fully within city limits. Wide streets, ample parking, strong schools, and garden-style apartment communities define the area.

Academy Gardens is located along Welsh Road near Pennypack Park. The neighborhood offers spacious apartment layouts, free parking, and some of the largest floor plans in our portfolio, including three-bedroom options.

Pennypack takes its name from the 1,600-acre Pennypack Park that runs through the area. Living here means immediate access to nine miles of paved trails, creekside paths, and genuine green space — all steps from your front door.

How to Get Around

The Boulevard Direct bus service runs on Roosevelt Boulevard and reaches Center City in about 30 minutes, making it one of the most reliable commuter routes in the Northeast. SEPTA Routes 1, 14, 18, 19, 20, 66, 67, and 70 serve the area, connecting residents to Roosevelt Mall, Frankford Transportation Center, and other key destinations.

For drivers, I-95 is accessible within 5–10 minutes from most Northeast Philadelphia neighborhoods, providing direct highway access to Center City, South Jersey, and points north. Route 1 (Roosevelt Boulevard) runs the length of the Northeast and connects to the Northeast Extension.

Regional Rail service is available at Torresdale Station on the Trenton Line, offering another option for Center City commuters who live near the station.

Four Communities Worth Touring

Joshua House offers the only three-bedroom apartments in our portfolio, making it the top choice for families and renters who need space. The 312-unit community sits on a park-like campus off Welsh Road, minutes from Pennypack Park, with a fitness center and free parking included.

7400 Roosevelt puts you directly on Roosevelt Boulevard with newly renovated kitchens, in-unit laundry, and private balconies in select units. The elevator building is walkable to Roosevelt Mall and offers some of the best-value renovated apartments in the Northeast.

Longwood Manor is a small, well-maintained community on a quiet residential block in Rhawnhurst, a 7-minute walk from Nazareth Hospital. High ceilings, large kitchens, and plenty of lot parking make it ideal for renters who want affordability without sacrificing quality.

Fountain Gardens is the only property in our portfolio with studio apartments, making it the most accessible entry point for renters new to the area. The community sits directly adjacent to a public park with tennis and basketball courts, and Pennypack Park is steps away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Northeast Philadelphia safe?

Like any urban area, safety varies by block and neighborhood. The residential sections of Rhawnhurst, Far Northeast, and Academy Gardens are generally considered safe, stable neighborhoods with low crime rates compared to other parts of Philadelphia.

Do I need a car to live in Northeast Philadelphia?

While SEPTA bus routes serve the area, Northeast Philadelphia is primarily car-dependent. Most renters find that owning a car makes daily life significantly easier, especially for grocery shopping and commuting to work.

How much does a one-bedroom apartment cost in Northeast Philadelphia?

As of 2026, one-bedroom apartments in Northeast Philadelphia range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, depending on the specific property, amenities, and whether utilities are included. This is approximately 25–35% below Center City pricing for comparable space.

Is parking included with apartments in Northeast Philadelphia?

Most apartment communities in Northeast Philadelphia include parking as part of the lease. Unlike Center City, where parking can cost an additional $200–300/month, NE Philly properties typically offer free assigned or open lot parking.

How long is the commute to Center City from Northeast Philadelphia?

The commute to Center City varies by starting point and transportation method. The Boulevard Direct bus reaches Center City in about 30 minutes from Roosevelt Boulevard. Driving via I-95 takes approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.

Ready to Tour?

Schedule a tour of our Northeast Philadelphia communities and see the space, parking, and value for yourself.