In the Northwest section of Philadelphia, the little area of Mount Airy sits. Its boundaries are often confused with Germantown, its immediate neighbor to the south, but it is a gem of an area all on its own. Nestled between its more well-known neighbors and the massive Fairmount Park, Mount Airy rentals are some of the best in the city at affordable prices.
Mount Airy is all about diversity. It’s found in the very complexion of the neighborhood. It’s all about various economic means, ethnic backgrounds and all ages. It makes for a great mix too.
An Estate Named Mount Airy
Mount Airy was created by a successful merchant and judge in the mid 1750s as his summer home. Nearby Germantown was an area where German settlers acquired rights to land to homestead, and it wasn’t until the late 19th Century and early 20th that Mount Airy started to develop. In those days, it was composed of large, three story houses and mansions, and many still exist on some of the neighborhoods tree lined streets. Whether you opt for a Mount Airy apartment or can afford a house, it’s a terrific neighborhood for families and singles.
Perhaps because of so many immigrants living in the area, Mount Airy is well known for being one of he first successfully integrated communities in the country. Even with the vast ethnic mix it has today, it has been recognized by everyone from Oprah to U.S. News & World Reports for its racial harmony. It now has a significant gay population and a significant Jewish community too.
Affluence And Affordability
Mount Airy is divided into East and West, and the closer the neighborhood gets to Fairmount Park, the more expensive and upscale it becomes. But, that is the general consensus and there are counter examples everywhere you look. Most of the local shopping is along Germantown Avenue and consists of small, independent stores with the odd chain store thrown in here and there. For major shopping, King of Prussia is only twenty minutes drive, but virtually all necessities can be found locally.
There are numerous, well-ranked public schools in Mount Airy including two charter schools, and private schools are in abundance. This may, in part, stem from some of the area’s demographics. It is often called the ‘PhD ghetto’ because so many of its residents have advanced degrees. It’s politically liberal and has a great tradition of quiet activism.
Diversity in Rent Prices
If you’ve got a fat wallet or have a family, the Western portion of Mount Airy is where you find houses with lawns. It’s attractive albeit expensive and very popular for those with children. It’s safe, kids ride bikes to school, and have the massive Fairmount Park for ball games and playgrounds. The Eastern section is largely working class with great mid-rise style apartment buildings of all ages. Considering that either area has a small town feel, and that it is only a twenty minute SEPTA ride to City Center, makes Mount Airy rentals very popular.
