Philadelphia fondly called Philly, is a city bustling with life, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and passionate sports scene. However, like any urban metropolis, it has its drawbacks. Here are the top things people often find challenging living in Philadelphia.
Crowded Streets
Philadelphia’s streets are often quite crowded. This situation can be a blessing and a curse as it allows for great people-watching opportunities but also makes commuting difficult during peak hours. Also, the city is known for its narrow roads and pedestrian-unfriendly sidewalks, which doesn’t help things.
Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion is an issue that the city has been trying to solve for years. Many people still prefer using their cars to get around, which undermines the city’s attempt at improving public transportation and leads to massive traffic jams during rush hour as thousands of vehicles try to squeeze into the limited road space available.
The People Tend to Have an Attitude That Can Come Off as Rude
Philadelphia has a reputation for having residents who can be rude or abrasive to outsiders. This rudeness could be because of the city’s blue-collar background, which tends to bring out a blunt attitude in people. Regardless of the reason for the perceived rudeness, this attitude can make visitors feel unwelcome and uncomfortable in certain parts of the city.
Dirty Streets
Philadelphia’s streets are quite dirty. Trash and litter are common throughout the city, especially in more run-down areas. Though the city has been taking steps to clean up its streets, it’s still common to find trash on the sidewalks and graffiti on buildings. This dirtiness can be a nuisance for residents trying to enjoy their city peacefully.
High Wage Taxes
Philadelphia has one of the highest wage taxes of any city in the country. This tax rate applies to all employees who live or work within city limits, regardless of whether a private entity or a public institution employs them. This tax burdens residents and non-residents since it’s often deducted from their paychecks and can cause financial strain for low-income households.
Crime Rate
Philadelphia has a reputation for having one of the country’s highest crime rates, with widespread violent crimes. This problem is prevalent in poorer areas of the city, which causes residents to feel unsafe and insecure living there. The police are doing their best to crack down on criminal activity, but it’s far from perfect.
Strange Liquor Licensing Law
Philadelphia has a strange liquor licensing law that makes it very difficult for restaurants to obtain a liquor license, meaning many restaurants have a “Bring Your Own Booze” policy. This policy can be inconvenient for residents who prefer to get their drinks with their order than be burdened with carrying drinks around.
Housing Issues
Philadelphia has been dealing with an affordable housing crisis for years. Rental prices have soared in recent times, with many residents unable to keep up with their rent payments or secure a place to stay. This issue is common in more impoverished cities, where gentrification is happening rapidly.
Parking Nightmare
Parking in Philadelphia can be a nightmare. The city is known for its narrow streets and limited parking options, leaving residents with few parking spaces. And when they do find one, it’s usually small, expensive, or requires special permits. The situation worsens during holidays or special events when the city has a lot of visitors who take up any available spaces.
Mixed-Bag Public Schools
Philadelphia’s public school system is a mixed bag, with some schools providing excellent education and others lacking in the resources departments. The difference between good and bad schools can be stark, leading to disparities among students from different neighborhoods.
Cold Winters
Philadelphia has some of the coldest winters in the country, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. This weather can be a real challenge for people accustomed to warmer climates, as they may struggle to cope with the bitter cold and snow.
Weak Job Market
Philadelphia’s job market is competitive, with many people vying for the same positions. It means that workers have to be prepared and willing to take on any opportunities that come their way to stay ahead of the competition. The city also has an aging population, making it difficult for younger professionals to find a place in the workforce.
Poor Air Quality
Philadelphia’s air quality has long been a concern for its residents. The city has a high level of air pollution due to emission from industrial plants and traffic congestion, which can be a real health hazard to those living in the area. The city is taking steps to improve its air quality, but it still leaves much to be desired.
Significant Decrease in Green Space
Philadelphia has seen a significant decrease in green space over the years due to urban sprawl and development. This situation can be a real issue for residents who want to find a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city but cannot due to the lack of available options. Fortunately, some organizations are trying to reverse this trend and create more green areas for the community.
Racism
Philadelphia has dealt with racism for years. The city has a long and complex history of racial tension, with many neighborhoods divided along racial lines. Residents have reported feeling uncomfortable or unwelcome in certain areas due to discrimination and prejudice. Despite this, the city is making strides in improving race relations, but much more must be done.
More From Inspired by Insiders
Canada has incredible natural landscapes, diverse cultures, and friendly people. It is a safe and welcoming place to visit, but be aware that there are some significant cultural nuances and laws you should abide by. Here are some things to never do to help you make the most of your Canadian adventure.
15 Things to Never Do in Canada
15 Things Foreigners Hate About America
What’s not to love about the United States? From its culture to its economy, there is a lot to appreciate. Unfortunately, not everyone sees America as the perfect place they might like it to be. Here are 15 things foreigners hate about the US.
15 Things Foreigners Hate About America
25 Things to Never Do in the United States
Visiting the United States can be an incredible experience. You get to immerse yourself in a new culture, explore unique places, and try delicious food. But did you know that there are certain things you should never do while in the US? Read on to find out what these 25 things are.
25 Things to Never Do in the United States
12 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About America
Is it possible that there are some things most Americans (you) don’t know about their country? Absolutely! You may be surprised to discover some interesting facts about the United States that you never knew before. See for yourself!
12 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About America
20 Things to Never Do in France
If you plan a trip to France, you’re in for an incredible experience. However, to ensure you make the most of your trip and don’t offend any locals, there are a few things you should never do during your stay in France.
20 Things to Never Do in France
This article was produced on Inspired by Insiders.