Fairmount

Philadelphia, PA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$484,000 (June 2025)
Median Home Price
92 (Walker's Paradise)
Walkability Score
Public schools are average to above average; Masterman is highly rated and competitive. Bache-Martin is improving and popular with local families.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Roughly bounded by the Schuylkill River to the west, Girard Avenue to the north, Broad Street to the east, and Spring Garden Street to the south.

Zip Codes

19130

Market Data Summary

Price RangeTypically $400,000–$900,000 for rowhomes and condos; luxury townhomes and renovated properties can exceed $1M.
Price per Sq Ft$343 (June 2025)
Inventory LevelsInventory is up significantly, offering more choices for buyers and slightly reducing bidding wars.[4]

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

RowhomesTownhousesLow-rise condosHistoric single-family homes

Architectural Styles

VictorianFederalGeorgianModern infill

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesSmall urban lots, typically 1,000–2,000 sq ft; some larger lots near the park.
Home Age RangeLate 1800s–early 1900s (historic core); new construction and gut renovations from 2000s–2020s.
Construction QualityGenerally high, with many well-maintained historic homes and high-end renovations; some older properties may require updates.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and long-term residents. Median age is mid-30s. High proportion of college-educated adults.

Community Vibe

Active, walkable, and culturally rich. Strong neighborhood identity and pride. Artsy, with a laid-back but urban feel.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families with children
  • Empty nesters
  • Artists and creatives

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly, with playgrounds, parks, and community events.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Fairmount Park
  • Eastern State Penitentiary historic site
  • Roberto Clemente Playground
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art (adjacent)

Dining Options

  • Zorba's Tavern
  • Jack's Firehouse
  • La Calaca Feliz
  • Urban Saloon

Shopping Centers

  • Fairmount Avenue corridor (boutiques, groceries, cafes)
  • Whole Foods Market (nearby)

Local Businesses

  • Osteria
  • Tela's Market & Kitchen
  • Fairmount Hardware
  • Bookhaven

Education & Schools

Public schools are average to above average; Masterman is highly rated and competitive. Bache-Martin is improving and popular with local families.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Bache-Martin Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School (magnet, nearby)

High Schools

  • Benjamin Franklin High School
  • Masterman (magnet, nearby)

Private Schools

  • Friends Select School (Center City)
  • Greene Towne Montessori

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • SEPTA Broad Street Line (Fairmount Station)
  • Bus routes 7, 32, 48, 49

Major Roads

  • Spring Garden Street
  • Girard Avenue
  • Broad Street

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–20 minutes to Center City by transit or bike; 20–30 minutes by car to University City or suburbs.
WalkabilityExcellent; most errands can be accomplished on foot.
ParkingStreet parking is challenging; some homes offer private parking or garages, but most rely on permit street parking.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Millennials and Gen Z professionals
  • Young families
  • Medical and university employees
  • Investors (rental, Airbnb)

Key Selling Points

  • Walker's paradise with top amenities
  • Historic architecture with modern upgrades
  • Access to green space and culture
  • Strong community vibe

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively given increased inventory; homes in turnkey condition or with parking command premium.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Parking is difficult.

Response Strategy:

Highlight homes with parking, proximity to transit, and walkability; discuss permit parking options.

Objection: Older homes may need repairs.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize quality renovations, recent system upgrades, and home warranties.

Objection: Property taxes are high.

Response Strategy:

Compare to other Center City neighborhoods; highlight value retention and city services.

Objection: School quality concerns.

Response Strategy:

Point to improving local schools, proximity to top magnets, and active parent community.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate; price growth is stabilizing after years of rapid gains. Long-term outlook remains positive due to location and amenities.[3][1]

Rental Demand

Strong, driven by proximity to Center City, universities, and hospitals. High demand for both long-term and short-term rentals.

Buyer Competition

Still competitive, but less intense than peak pandemic years. More balanced market in 2025.[4][3]

Best For

  • Young professionals seeking urban lifestyle
  • Families valuing walkability and culture
  • Investors targeting stable rental income

Potential Concerns

  • Rising property taxes
  • Parking limitations
  • Older homes may require maintenance

Professional Recommendations

1

Leverage hyperlocal data to set realistic pricing and manage client expectations.

2

Stage homes to highlight flexible living spaces and outdoor amenities.

3

Educate buyers on permit parking and local school options.

4

Market to both end-users and investors, emphasizing rental demand.

5

Stay updated on new developments and retail openings to inform clients.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Graduate Hospital
  • Northern Liberties
  • Fishtown
  • Art Museum area

Market Positioning

Premium urban neighborhood with strong lifestyle appeal and stable long-term value.

Competitive Advantages

  • Proximity to Fairmount Park and museums
  • Historic charm with modern amenities
  • Superior walkability

Price Comparison

Priced below Rittenhouse and Graduate Hospital, but above Brewerytown and Francisville.

Investment Metrics

Typically 4.5–5.5% for well-located multifamily or renovated rowhomes.
Cap Rates
Gross yields of 5–6% for long-term rentals; higher for short-term/Airbnb (where permitted).
Rental Yields
18–20, reflecting strong demand but higher entry prices.
Price-to-Rent
Positive for well-managed properties, especially with updated units and strong tenant demand.
Cash Flow
2–3% annual appreciation expected through 2026, barring major economic shifts.[3][1]
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Attracted by walkability, culture, and access to Center City; may need education on older home maintenance and parking realities.

Move-Up Buyers

Seek larger or renovated homes with outdoor space and parking; value neighborhood stability.

Downsizers

Appreciate low-maintenance living, proximity to amenities, and vibrant community.

Investors

Target multifamily or updated rowhomes for stable rental income and appreciation.

Relocators

Drawn by lifestyle, central location, and access to major employers.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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