Finding Secure Housing in University City: A Student Guide

Finding safe and convenient housing options in University City, Philadelphia, is top of mind for many UPenn and Drexel students. While generally student-friendly, safety can vary considerably from street to street. As such, prospective renters must understand neighborhood boundaries before signing a lease agreement.

For students searching for off-campus housing at Penn or Drexel University, this guide contains everything from safe housing sites to specific recommendations from real estate professionals.

1. Understanding Safety in University City

Is University City Safe?

University City is one of Philadelphia's student-dense neighborhoods. Yet, as with any urban area, it varies in terms of safety levels based on specific streets, particularly after dark.

Key Safety Considerations:

✔ University Patrol Zones: Both Penn and Drexel provide campus security that extends into their surrounding neighborhoods.

✔ Crime Rates: Property crime (bike theft and break-ins) is more prevalent than violent crime.

✔ Busy vs. quiet areas: Well-lit, high-traffic areas tend to be safer than isolated streets.

University Resources for Safety

• Both Penn and Drexel offer extensive security measures:
• Penn Public Safety services the Penn Patrol Zone from 30th Street to 43rd Street from Market to Baltimore Avenue.
• Drexel Public Safety covers the campus as well as parts of Powelton Village and Mantua with Blue Light Emergency Phones located throughout these areas.
• Penn and Drexel Guardian Apps allow students to share real-time locations with campus police.
• Safe Ride Programs offer free evening rides within campus zones.

2. Safe and Less Safe Areas in University City

Best Areas for Safety and Convenience

🔹 At 40th Street (which is closest to campus)

✅ Students mainly occupy this location, and it is well patrolled.

✅ Proximity to campus resources, restaurants, and study spots.

✅ Chestnut Square, Hamilton Court, and The Radian apartments offer security features to provide added protection for their residents.

🔹 Powelton Village (Drexel-Friendly, Residential Feel)

✅ Drexel students appreciate its mix of apartments and row houses.

✅ Safety-wise, however, this option may be best for students willing to walk 15 minutes to campus.

✅ Rent is often less expensive than on-campus housing options.

🔹 Spruce Hill (Quieter and More Residential)

✅ Preferred by Penn students and faculty.

✅ A reduced student population means reduced loud parties and disruptions.

✅ It is attractively located close to Clark Park and coffee shops, making this an excellent combination of urban life and greenery.

Areas That Require Extra Caution

⚠️ West of 50th Street

🔺 High crime rates and few student residents.

🔺 Limited police patrols from Penn and Drexel.

🔺 It is wise to find roommates and reliable transportation if living here is your goal.

⚠️ Southwest University City

🔺 Varies by block, while some may experience occasional incidents of break-ins and robberies.

🔺 With few well-lit streets and security patrols.

⚠️ Beyond Market Street (West of 45th Street)

🔺 More affordable but requires the careful selection of streets.

🔺 Fewer student-focused apartments exist here.

💡 Pro Tip: For added peace of mind when renting in Philadelphia, use Philadelphia's Crime Map and talk with current students before signing any lease agreements.

3. How to Stay Safe While Living Off-Campus

Select the Appropriate Housing

🏡 Seek buildings equipped with keycard entry, security cameras, and gated access.

🏡 Coliving spaces such as Tripalink offer additional security while offering student-friendly lease terms.

🏡 Apartment complexes such as The Radian, Chestnut Square, and Domus are known to provide unparalleled security features.

Personal Safety Strategies

✔ Get home safely after dark by hiring Safe Ride services.

✔ Stay on main streets when walking home late from work or school.

✔ Stay aware of your surroundings instead of texting while walking.

✔ Lock doors and windows when leaving an apartment building.

4. Co-Living Spaces & Budget-Friendly Options

When looking for affordable University City apartments, co-living spaces like Tripalink offer:

• Furnished rooms with shared living areas
• Less rental costs than traditional apartments.
• Keycard access security measures and roommate matching make an attractive alternative.

5. Comparing Safety Between Penn and Drexel

Penn's Patrol Zone Vs Drexel's

🚔 At Penn, security coverage extends up to 43rd Street.

🚔 Drexel focuses on Powelton Village and Market Street more heavily.

💡 Tip: For students at Drexel seeking safe housing options, try staying east of 36th Street and opt for apartments located within Chestnut Square or The Summit.

6. How to Track Crime Data and Stay Updated

📌 Use Crime Maps & Reports

• Philadelphia Police's Crime Map (real-time reports).
• UPenn & Drexel security alerts (available online).
• Local Reddit and Facebook groups also often provide student perspectives.

📌 Neighborhood Watch and Community Involvement Program

• Neighborhood watch programs can be found in certain University City streets and buildings.
• One effective method for gathering insight on safety matters is speaking with current students.

7. Budget for Safety and Convenience

University City offers so much excitement. However, finding an apartment of appropriate quality should not be taken for granted.

✔ Stick to heavily patrolled areas such as Spruce Hills, Powelton Village, and 40th Street.

✔ If you plan to reside on West 45th Street, try to find housing with security features.

✔ Use university safety programs like Safe Ride and campus security applications for added peace of mind.

Tripalink offers student-oriented housing near Penn, Drexel University, and University City. Our student apartments provide safe environments in a student-friendly atmosphere.