Choose University City

University City is the region’s leader in education, science, and innovation. The 2.4 square mile neighborhood boasts world-class institutions that have catalyzed nearly 80,000 jobs in a variety of fields. The neighborhood is a destination for culture seekers and food lovers, a transportation hub with some of the most bicycle-and pedestrian-friendly streets in the city and is home to some of the most significant development projects and life sciences breakthroughs in the region. With diverse demographics, a blend of housing and rental options, top-notch schools and hospitals, and amenities galore, University City is one of Greater Philadelphia’s neighborhoods of choice.

Whether you’re seeking to expand your existing University City business or you’re considering locating in University City for the first time, UCD is here to help. From customized research to startup assistance to growth strategies, our goal is to create a robust and dynamic business environment in University City. To learn more, contact Sarah Steltz at ssteltz@universitycity.org.

Home to Premier Anchor Institutions

True to its name, University City offers top options in the region and nation for undergraduate and graduate studies. Over 50,000 students are enrolled in the neighborhood’s institutions of higher education, and whether they’re coming from around the city or around the world, scholars are drawn to the proximity to employment opportunities, the beautiful urban campuses, and the vitality of the surrounding community.

A Global Innovation Hub

University City is a globally competitive hub for innovation and scientific discovery. Nearly $2 billion in recent research and development investments across University City Institutions and companies – buttressed by a record $990 million in National Institutes of Health funding just in the past year – turns dreams of an innovative neighborhood into a daily reality.

Robust Development

University City is home to $710 million in recently completed construction projects – adding 2.5 million square feet of mixed-use space to our footprint and skyline. There’s been a palpable boom in lab space, which now totals more than 3.3 million square feet, and in the construction of multi-family housing, with 929 new units recently completed and another 4,200 in development over the next three years.

Quality Jobs & Talent

In 2023, over 18,000 jobs from the neighborhood’s major employers were posted. More than 7% of University City’s 78,000+ jobs pay over $40,000 a year, compared to just under 60% for Philadelphia as a whole. University City accounts for approximately 11% of all jobs within Philadelphia, despite representing only 1.69% of the city’s total footprint.

University City is where talented innovators want to be, drawn by the proximity to premier regional anchor institutions and knowledge centers plus ample lab space and research facilities. In fact, Philadelphia ranked #6 in national life sciences talent according to CBRE, with much more talent in the pipeline at the neighborhood’s institutions.

Diverse & Growing Community

Over 55,000 people choose to live in University City, ranging from lifelong residents to young parents to students. Our residents skew young, educated, and ethnically diverse, with nearly 19% of residents born outside of the United States and 25% of households speaking non-English languages within their homes. 4,200 units of multi-family housing will be added by 2026 to meet the growing demand for those wanting to call University City home.

A Neighborhood of Choice

The area features historic homes, modern high-rises, walk-up apartments, dormitories, and more, catering to a wide range of residents. With over 100 acres of public parks and outdoor seating, there are plenty of spots to relax, recharge, and unwind. Although housing prices in University City have risen in recent years, the neighborhood remains more affordable than many of its peer employment centers, including Boston, Washington DC, and Atlanta.

Top-Tier Accessibility

The neighborhood offers exceptional options for cyclists, pedestrians, and public transit commuters, earning a “paradise” rating from Walkscore.com for all three modes of transportation. It’s no wonder that 84% of residents also work in University City. The area’s accessibility for both domestic and international travelers is unmatched, home to the William H. Gray 30th Street Station— the third busiest train station in the nation— and is just 30 minutes from Philadelphia International Airport.

Vibrant Dining & Arts

Our eclectic dining scene caters to every appetite, featuring a blend of longstanding mom-and-pop restaurants, cuisine from around the globe, and outposts for local and national chains. University City is also a hub for arts and culture, with theaters, galleries, and local dance and performance groups adding to the community’s charm. Active neighborhood associations and community groups help foster civic pride and support the community in times of need.