Bella Vista

Bella Vista

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Homes for Sale

About Bella Vista

Bella Vista means "beautiful view" in Italian, and this iconic, South Philly neighborhood still delivers on the promise of its name. As the longtime home of an Italian-American community and an Italian market that claims to be the oldest outdoor market in the country, the neighborhood is something of a modern Little Italy. Bella Vista also contains several parks and offers a short commute to Center City.

Quick Facts

Current Prices: $249,900 to $2,250,000

Closed Prices: $136,000 to $2,300,000

Median Sale Price: $496,200

Average $ per sq ft: $392

Association Fee Ranges: $0, $0 to $869/mo, $100 to $1200

Type: Attached Home (Condo, Townhouse, Loft, etc.), Single-Family Home

Age: 1867 to 2022

Sq. Ft.: 435 to 4700 Sq. Ft.

Bedrooms: 0 to 5 Bedrooms

Bathrooms: 1 to 7 Bathrooms

Around Bella Vista

Bella Vista is a blend of down-home comforts and urban culture. The area is a cozy home for retirees and established families, but also an entertaining destination for young professionals. Keep toward the inner streets of the neighborhood for a quiet atmosphere and brilliant art displays near all the markets and cafes on 9th Street. Towards South Street you'll be in the midst of all the lively nightlife and festivals.

Bella Vista doesn't run short on good eats. Anthony's Italian Coffee House is touted for its coffee blends and house-made chocolates, but you've got to try the breakfast sandwiches. Check out Sarcone's Bakery for fresh bread cooled in the open air, then visit DiBrunos Bros Italian Market for rows of olives, gourmet cheeses, and deli meats. They've got some of the best service and they'll let you try just about anything.

Beautiful, inspired murals are the backdrop to your drives and walks through the Bella Vista neighborhood. Classic street lamps in vibrant colors, beautiful churches, and specialty shops offering Italian treats are everywhere. Outdoor markets and quaint BYOB's are always within reach. Whether day or night, South Street is the epicenter for entertainment and activities the whole family can enjoy. This area can get a bit busy and loud, however, so those seeking peace and quiet may want to live further south.

The Theater of the Living Arts (TLA) is the premier live music venue in the neighborhood. Grab a bite to eat at Geno's Steaks or enjoy a slice and a beer on an outdoor barstool at Nomad's for artisanal, drool-worthy pizza as the sun sets. As night falls, neon lights flicker on, lighting up the neighborhood. Check out dive bars like Tattooed Mom on South Street for happy hour. Their upper level is floor to ceiling with graffiti and art, and you're encouraged to add your own.

Visit the sculpture garden maze at Philadelphia's Magic Gardens and step inside Isaiah Zagar's art environment to experience a mosaic that encompass an entire room. Shop at an outdoor fresh market for your produce to prep for the week, then stop by John's Water Ice for a sweet Italian ice treat before visiting the local bookstore to grab a new read. If you have kids or a pooch, tire them out at Seger Park, which includes a playground and dog park.

Find beautiful lofts with exposed brick interiors and views of Center City off Washington Avenue. These can have a high price point, but believe it or not, there are some places where you won't have to fight for parking. Townhomes in Bella Vista come at a lower price point than the neighboring areas of Queen Village and Society Hill. You're likely to beat your budget here with reasonably priced row homes. Even some contemporary, spacious condominiums offer a fair price for the square footage--try Fulton and South 8th Streets.

Bella Vista has great transportation options, with a bus stop at every main corner. You'll find it easier to walk, but when you need to rideshare your trips will be close enough that you won't spend much. Everything is within walking distance. If you choose to drive, it'll be easy to get around, but you'll hit a few pockets of congestion if you're taking 9th Street.

Locals Love

  • Great shopping
  • Friendly neighbors
  • Exciting nightlife
  • Walkability
  • Transportation options

Locals Don't Love

  • Limited parking
  • Traffic
  • Noise

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