Chinatown brings markets, restaurants and city life close together. If that energy appeals to you, take time to explore the homes behind the storefronts and along the side streets. We'll help you find a layout and a location that suit the way you want to live.
Explore this guide
At a glance
Homes: Condominiums, apartments above businesses, converted commercial buildings and some townhouses.
Getting around: Compare the walk to Jefferson Station and nearby subway connections with the exact entrance of the home.
Worth weighing: Deliveries, traffic and commercial activity are part of the location and vary by block.
Family life in Chinatown
Being able to combine shopping with other stops can be a welcome part of city life with children. From a home you like, look at the routes to school or childcare and the outdoor places you'd use. The Rail Park is worth exploring too, including the crossings and access along the way.
In a building above or beside businesses, ask about entrances, trash handling and delivery hours. Consider elevator access, bedroom windows, noise separation and where a stroller or bicycle can be stored. Those details matter more than a floor plan alone suggests.
Schools and childcare
Use the School District of Philadelphia enrollment and school finder resources for the exact home address. Confirm assignment and enrollment details with the district, including any application process for another school option.
Use Pennsylvania's COMPASS child care search to start a provider search. Contact providers about age groups, hours, availability and pickup arrangements, then try the trip from the home.
Finding the right home here
Review the building's maintenance responsibilities and sound separation. Check the condition and use of shared spaces, and confirm parking or storage rights in writing if they are part of the purchase.
Want a closer look at the homes themselves? Read our Philadelphia rowhome buying guide.
Daily life, parking and getting around
Walk from the home's front door and give yourself time to look around. A restaurant stretch and a side street can have different rhythms, so visit at more than one time of day. Local businesses and community organizations are also good places to find out what's happening now.
Use SEPTA's current trip planner for the journey and travel time you expect to keep. If you drive, verify parking terms and access for the specific home.
Places to explore
Friendship Arch area
Chinatown markets
The Rail Park
Check facilities and current activities through the City's parks and recreation finder or the individual operator before planning your visit.
Get to know more of the neighborhood through the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation and its introduction to Chinatown.
Come spend some time here
Explore the streets around the Friendship Arch and nearby markets.
Walk the exact transit route from a property you like.
Visit an outdoor destination separately and get a feel for the crossings and entrance conditions.
There’s no need to rush. Bring the stroller if you use one, leave time for an errand and take the walk you’d make from home. A weekday visit and another in the evening can help you get a feel for the neighborhood.
A few more neighborhoods to explore
Old City: Take a look at converted buildings and historic surroundings.
Washington Square West: Explore a mix of residential side streets and commercial corridors.
Logan Square: Get to know buildings closer to the Parkway and library.
Let’s find your place here
Curious about making a home in Chinatown? Send us a few listings you like, or tell us what you’re hoping to find. We’re Eric and Melanie, and we’d love to help you get to know the neighborhood, talk through the homes and figure out your next step.
Picture yourself here.
Have a home in mind, or still getting a feel for the area? Tell us what you’re looking for. We’d love to help you explore.
Keep exploring
Old City Take a look at converted buildings and historic surroundings.
Washington Square West Explore a mix of residential side streets and commercial corridors.
Logan Square Get to know buildings closer to the Parkway and library.
Explore our current listings
Here are a few homes we currently have listed around the area. Each card shows its location.
