Return of the Jawn? How is Philly in 2026 - Considering Moving Back.
I moved away from Philly a number of years ago and ended up in Central PA for work. I'd like to return to Philly for better job and social prospects.
The COL is the only thing stopping me. I don't want to end up gambling on a move and end up falling into a bad situation.
Do you think the city, SEPTA, is safer than it was 10-12 years ago? I used to have some trouble on my commute.
How bad is the job market, and rental market?
Zillow, Rent Cafe, Hotpads show mostly stuff I suspect are ghost listings, things that can't be real. Are people mostly using realtors now, or is it all word of mouth?
Job boards show a lot ghost jobs, it's hard to tell how much hiring is happening. Do you think the local economy has hollowed out in Philly, or are people mostly doing okay? In Central PA, layoffs and a lack of new growth are lethal.
Any insight appreciated!