Philadelphia’s self-proclaimed “Loft District” is a small, ex-industrial section just north of Center City in the 19123 zip code. Right next door to the southern end of Northern Liberties and the northern end of Old City.

Once known as a semi-rough, working class neighborhood filled with opportunities in manufacturing (as well as housing both a brewery and a circus), it has since changed into a creative class paradise. Large factories have been transformed into luxurious lofts for both buyers and renters, while also having studio space and businesses on the lower floors. With its easy access to Center City, as well as trendy neighborhoods like Fairmount and Northern Liberties, it’s no wonder why people are still moving to this small section in North Philadelphia.

Its boundaries are not set in stone, but they basically run from Spring Garden St to the north / Vine St to the south, Broad St to the west / N 8th St to the east. In other words, it’s not very large but very dense and full of opportunity. To top it all off, CCD’s proposed Reading Viaduct Project would be a huge anchor and could keep its momentum going in an upward slope.

Trendy restaurants/bars and artist venues are popping up left and right, and will most likely continue for the foreseeable future. Remember, most people moving to Philadelphia want to be in Center City; they just do what they can to avoid paying Center City prices.