An analysis of Pennsylvania’s residential real estate market using Zillow Home Value Index Data reveals the state’s most expensive neighborhoods as of December 2024.
These 30 areas represent the “worst” neighborhoods to buy in Pennsylvania – not because of any quality issues, but purely because homes in these locations come with the heftiest price tags.
From Philadelphia’s historic districts to Pittsburgh’s revitalized communities, these neighborhoods showcase remarkable price appreciation over the past decade, with some areas seeing values more than double.
While these locations offer desirable amenities, prime locations, and often excellent schools, their high home values make them increasingly challenging for many buyers to access. Let’s explore these premium markets and their evolution over the past ten years.
Here’s the list of neighborhoods.
1. Logan Square – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $356,466
- 2019: $428,352
- 2024: $457,044
- 10-year growth: 28.2%
- 5-year growth: 6.7%
In the heart of Philadelphia’s museum district, Logan Square presents an interesting case of moderate growth, with home values climbing from $356,466 in 2014 to $428,352 in 2019, before reaching $457,044 in 2024 – representing a 28.2% decade growth and modest 6.7% five-year gain. This historic neighborhood sits at the western end of Benjamin Franklin Parkway, serving as a gateway between Center City and Fairmount Park. The area is anchored by its iconic fountain and encompasses some of Philadelphia’s most notable cultural institutions.
2. Shadyside – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $301,713
- 2019: $388,847
- 2024: $458,011
- 10-year growth: 51.8%
- 5-year growth: 17.8%
Shadyside has demonstrated remarkable resilience in Pittsburgh’s real estate market, with property values advancing from $301,713 in 2014 to $388,847 in 2019, ultimately reaching $458,011 in 2024, marking a robust 51.8% ten-year appreciation and 17.8% growth since 2019. This sophisticated urban village lies east of downtown Pittsburgh, characterized by tree-lined streets and Victorian mansions. The neighborhood seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities, anchored by the vibrant Walnut Street shopping district.
3. Mount Airy West – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $273,771
- 2019: $356,691
- 2024: $459,563
- 10-year growth: 67.9%
- 5-year growth: 28.8%
A testament to Philadelphia’s evolving market dynamics, Mount Airy West has seen property values soar from $273,771 in 2014 to $356,691 in 2019, reaching $459,563 in 2024 – showcasing an impressive 67.9% decade-long growth and 28.8% five-year appreciation. Located in northwest Philadelphia, Mount Airy West combines the charm of historic homes with easy access to Wissahickon Valley Park. The neighborhood is renowned for its diverse community and architecturally significant stone houses.
4. Society Hill – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $425,062
- 2019: $471,470
- 2024: $461,343
- 10-year growth: 8.5%
- 5-year growth: -2.1%
Society Hill tells a unique story of value stability in Philadelphia’s luxury market, experiencing modest growth from $425,062 in 2014 to $471,470 in 2019, before slightly declining to $461,343 in 2024 – showing an overall decade growth of 8.5% but a recent 2.1% dip. This historic district, nestled between the Delaware River and Washington Square, represents one of America’s largest concentrations of original 18th and early 19th-century residential architecture. The neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and restored colonial buildings make it one of Philadelphia’s most picturesque areas.
5. Strip District – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
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- 2014: $378,778
- 2019: $455,472
- 2024: $461,707
- 10-year growth: 21.9%
- 5-year growth: 1.4%
The Strip District exemplifies Pittsburgh’s industrial-to-residential transformation, with property values rising from $378,778 in 2014 to $455,472 in 2019, and reaching $461,707 in 2024 – demonstrating a steady 21.9% ten-year climb despite modest recent growth. This former industrial hub along the Allegheny River has evolved into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood. The area maintains its historic marketplaces and food purveyors while embracing new residential development in converted warehouses.
6. Packer Park – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $340,433
- 2019: $394,359
- 2024: $476,466
- 10-year growth: 40.0%
- 5-year growth: 20.8%
Packer Park showcases impressive growth in South Philadelphia’s real estate landscape, with values increasing from $340,433 in 2014 to $394,359 in 2019, before jumping to $476,466 in 2024 – reflecting a strong 40% decade-long appreciation. This residential enclave, situated near the sports complex, provides a suburban feel within city limits. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained mid-century homes and proximity to FDR Park.
7. Rittenhouse – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $477,475
- 2019: $507,174
- 2024: $480,019
- 10-year growth: 0.5%
- 5-year growth: -5.4%
Philadelphia’s prestigious Rittenhouse neighborhood presents an intriguing market story, with values moving from $477,475 in 2014 to $507,174 in 2019, before adjusting to $480,019 in 2024 – showing minimal overall growth but recent market corrections. Centered around the historic Rittenhouse Square, this area represents Philadelphia’s most elegant urban core. The neighborhood combines high-end retail, fine dining, and cultural attractions with some of the city’s most distinguished addresses.
8. Hawthorne – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $382,282
- 2019: $466,814
- 2024: $480,295
- 10-year growth: 25.6%
- 5-year growth: 2.9%
Hawthorne’s real estate journey reflects steady appreciation, with values climbing from $382,282 in 2014 to $466,814 in 2019, and reaching $480,295 in 2024 – showing consistent 25.6% long-term growth. Situated in South Philadelphia between Broad Street and 11th Street, this revitalized neighborhood offers easy access to Center City. The area has transformed from its industrial past into a diverse residential community with excellent transit access.
9. Village Shires – Holland
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $268,424
- 2019: $310,864
- 2024: $482,033
- 10-year growth: 79.6%
- 5-year growth: 55.1%
Village Shires emerges as one of Bucks County’s success stories, with home values surging from $268,424 in 2014 to $310,864 in 2019, before dramatically rising to $482,033 in 2024 – marking an exceptional 79.6% decade growth. Located in Holland, this planned community offers a suburban oasis with extensive amenities. The neighborhood features a mix of townhomes and single-family houses surrounding a central shopping center and recreational facilities.
10. Snowball Gate – Pennsylvania
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $267,931
- 2019: $330,261
- 2024: $482,473
- 10-year growth: 80.1%
- 5-year growth: 46.1%
The remarkable transformation of Snowball Gate is evident in its price trajectory, moving from $267,931 in 2014 to $330,261 in 2019, then leaping to $482,473 in 2024 – achieving an impressive 80.1% ten-year appreciation. This suburban community exemplifies the strong growth seen in Pennsylvania’s planned developments. The neighborhood offers a blend of modern amenities and natural surroundings, making it increasingly attractive to families seeking space and convenience.
11. University City – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $368,633
- 2019: $506,587
- 2024: $488,324
- 10-year growth: 32.5%
- 5-year growth: -3.6%
University City’s market dynamics reflect its evolving academic and innovation ecosystem, with values rising from $368,633 in 2014 to $506,587 in 2019, before adjusting to $488,324 in 2024 – showing overall growth despite recent cooling. Home to multiple universities and research institutions, this West Philadelphia neighborhood buzzes with intellectual and cultural energy. The area continues to attract investment in both residential and commercial development, driven by its role as Philadelphia’s innovation district.
12. Bella Vista – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $375,467
- 2019: $460,088
- 2024: $490,112
- 10-year growth: 30.5%
- 5-year growth: 6.5%
Bella Vista’s real estate narrative showcases steady appreciation, with values progressing from $375,467 in 2014 to $460,088 in 2019, reaching $490,112 in 2024 – demonstrating reliable 30.5% long-term growth. This charming South Philadelphia neighborhood, known for its Italian Market and artistic community, blends historic row homes with modern development. The area’s vibrant restaurant scene and proximity to Center City continue to drive its appeal.
13. Allegheny West – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $241,787
- 2019: $361,098
- 2024: $491,053
- 10-year growth: 103.1%
- 5-year growth: 36.0%
Leading Pittsburgh’s neighborhood renaissance, Allegheny West has experienced phenomenal growth from $241,787 in 2014 to $361,098 in 2019, surging to $491,053 in 2024 – marking an extraordinary 103.1% decade appreciation. This historic North Side neighborhood, adjacent to Allegheny Commons Park, features some of Pittsburgh’s finest Victorian architecture. The area has transformed from an industrial afterthought to one of the city’s most desirable historic districts.
14. Riverfront – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $417,712
- 2019: $470,805
- 2024: $494,102
- 10-year growth: 18.3%
- 5-year growth: 4.9%
Pittsburgh’s Riverfront district demonstrates the steady appeal of waterfront living, with values increasing from $417,712 in 2014 to $470,805 in 2019, and reaching $494,102 in 2024 – showing measured 18.3% long-term appreciation. This revitalized area along Pittsburgh’s rivers has become a model for post-industrial waterfront development. The neighborhood combines new residential developments with riverside trails and parks, creating an attractive urban lifestyle destination.
15. Northern Liberties – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $345,804
- 2019: $448,439
- 2024: $495,621
- 10-year growth: 43.3%
- 5-year growth: 10.5%
Northern Liberties exemplifies Philadelphia’s neighborhood transformation, with property values climbing from $345,804 in 2014 to $448,439 in 2019, and reaching $495,621 in 2024 – showing strong 43.3% decade growth. This former manufacturing hub has reinvented itself as one of Philadelphia’s most dynamic neighborhoods. The area combines converted industrial spaces with new construction, centered around the bustling Piazza and Liberty Lands Park.
16. Forsynthia Gate – Pennsylvania
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $273,705
- 2019: $342,734
- 2024: $501,858
- 10-year growth: 83.4%
- 5-year growth: 46.4%
Forsynthia Gate represents suburban Pennsylvania’s robust growth story, with values surging from $273,705 in 2014 to $342,734 in 2019, before reaching $501,858 in 2024 – achieving an impressive 83.4% decade appreciation. This planned community has emerged as a sought-after residential destination. The neighborhood combines modern amenities with carefully preserved green spaces, creating an appealing suburban environment.
17. Penn Wynne – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $288,337
- 2019: $349,372
- 2024: $520,763
- 10-year growth: 80.6%
- 5-year growth: 49.1%
Penn Wynne’s market performance has been stellar, with home values escalating from $288,337 in 2014 to $349,372 in 2019, then jumping to $520,763 in 2024 – demonstrating remarkable 80.6% decade growth. Located in Lower Merion Township, this suburban community offers the perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and strong sense of community.
18. Newtown Grant – Newtown
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $302,953
- 2019: $349,060
- 2024: $526,152
- 10-year growth: 73.7
19. Red Rose Gate – Pennsylvania
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $288,438
- 2019: $365,081
- 2024: $530,019
- 10-year growth: 83.8%
- 5-year growth: 45.2%
Red Rose Gate demonstrates remarkable market strength, with property values rising from $288,438 in 2014 to $365,081 in 2019, then leaping to $530,019 in 2024 – achieving an impressive 83.8% ten-year appreciation. This planned community has become one of Pennsylvania’s residential success stories. The neighborhood combines modern amenities with thoughtfully designed layouts, creating an attractive environment for families and professionals.
20. Graduate Hospital – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $399,539
- 2019: $504,527
- 2024: $543,809
- 10-year growth: 36.1%
- 5-year growth: 7.8%
Graduate Hospital’s real estate trajectory reflects its growing appeal, with values advancing from $399,539 in 2014 to $504,527 in 2019, reaching $543,809 in 2024 – showing steady 36.1% decade growth. This South Philadelphia neighborhood, also known as Southwest Center City, has transformed into one of the city’s most desirable areas. The district combines historic row homes with new construction, attracting young professionals and families with its proximity to Center City and vibrant street life.
21. College Park – Pennsylvania
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $281,444
- 2019: $347,844
- 2024: $545,059
- 10-year growth: 93.7%
- 5-year growth: 56.7%
College Park showcases exceptional market performance, with home values soaring from $281,444 in 2014 to $347,844 in 2019, before rocketing to $545,059 in 2024 – marking an outstanding 93.7% decade appreciation. Located in a prime suburban setting, this community offers an attractive blend of academic influence and residential charm. The neighborhood’s proximity to educational institutions and community amenities has driven its remarkable growth.
22. Queen Village – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $412,050
- 2019: $509,736
- 2024: $547,622
- 10-year growth: 32.9%
- 5-year growth: 7.4%
Queen Village maintains its position as a premier Philadelphia neighborhood, with values progressing from $412,050 in 2014 to $509,736 in 2019, reaching $547,622 in 2024 – demonstrating solid 32.9% long-term growth. This historic district, Philadelphia’s oldest residential neighborhood, combines colonial-era charm with modern urban amenities. The area’s proximity to South Street, excellent restaurants, and boutique shopping continues to attract residents.
23. Trexler Park – Allentown
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $351,062
- 2019: $383,932
- 2024: $548,664
- 10-year growth: 56.3%
- 5-year growth: 42.9%
Trexler Park illustrates Allentown’s evolving real estate landscape, with values increasing from $351,062 in 2014 to $383,932 in 2019, before jumping to $548,664 in 2024 – showing impressive 56.3% decade appreciation. This upscale neighborhood, centered around its namesake park, represents one of Allentown’s most desirable areas. The community combines natural beauty with upscale residences, offering a perfect blend of urban convenience and park-side living.
24. Spruce Hill – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $379,623
- 2019: $502,398
- 2024: $552,744
- 10-year growth: 45.6%
- 5-year growth: 10.0%
Spruce Hill exemplifies West Philadelphia’s renaissance, with property values rising from $379,623 in 2014 to $502,398 in 2019, reaching $552,744 in 2024 – achieving steady 45.6% decade growth. This historic neighborhood, known for its Victorian architecture and academic atmosphere, sits adjacent to the University of Pennsylvania. The area blends scholarly influence with residential charm, featuring tree-lined streets and diverse dining options.
25. Point Breeze – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $330,920
- 2019: $437,347
- 2024: $567,845
- 10-year growth: 71.6%
- 5-year growth: 29.8%
Point Breeze represents one of Philadelphia’s most dramatic transformations, with values surging from $330,920 in 2014 to $437,347 in 2019, then climbing to $567,845 in 2024 – marking significant 71.6% decade appreciation. This South Philadelphia neighborhood has evolved from an industrial past into a vibrant residential community. The area’s proximity to Center City and ongoing development have made it increasingly attractive to young professionals and families.
26. Maple Glen – Montgomery County
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $386,778
- 2019: $426,170
- 2024: $619,124
- 10-year growth: 60.1%
- 5-year growth: 45.3%
Maple Glen showcases suburban Philadelphia’s enduring appeal, with home values increasing from $386,778 in 2014 to $426,170 in 2019, before reaching $619,124 in 2024 – demonstrating robust 60.1% decade growth. This affluent community in Montgomery County offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. The neighborhood is characterized by its large lots, custom homes, and excellent school district.
27. Herrs Island – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $451,273
- 2019: $537,613
- 2024: $664,981
- 10-year growth: 47.4%
- 5-year growth: 23.7%
Herrs Island, now known as Washington’s Landing, presents a unique urban renewal success story, with values climbing from $451,273 in 2014 to $537,613 in 2019, reaching $664,981 in 2024 – showing strong 47.4% decade appreciation. This former industrial island in the Allegheny River has been transformed into an exclusive residential community. The neighborhood offers waterfront living with easy access to downtown Pittsburgh, combining natural beauty with urban convenience.
28. Squirrel Hill North – Pittsburgh
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $439,689
- 2019: $566,388
- 2024: $738,006
- 10-year growth: 67.8%
- 5-year growth: 30.3%
Squirrel Hill North continues to dominate Pittsburgh’s luxury market, with values rising from $439,689 in 2014 to $566,388 in 2019, before reaching $738,006 in 2024 – demonstrating impressive 67.8% decade growth. This prestigious neighborhood, adjacent to Schenley Park, represents Pittsburgh’s intellectual and cultural heart. The area is known for its stunning mansions, academic institutions, and thriving commercial districts along Forbes and Murray Avenues.
29. Fitler Square – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $533,697
- 2019: $695,065
- 2024: $779,700
- 10-year growth: 46.1%
- 5-year growth: 12.2%
Fitler Square maintains its position as one of Philadelphia’s most coveted neighborhoods, with values progressing from $533,697 in 2014 to $695,065 in 2019, reaching $779,700 in 2024 – showing consistent 46.1% decade appreciation. This intimate neighborhood, centered around its namesake park, offers a peaceful residential atmosphere in the heart of the city. The area is characterized by its well-preserved 19th-century row homes and proximity to the Schuylkill River Trail.
30. Chestnut Hill – Philadelphia
Home Values and Percent Change:
- 2014: $472,270
- 2019: $593,614
- 2024: $793,473
- 10-year growth: 68.0%
- 5-year growth: 33.7%
The crown jewel of northwest Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill’s property values have demonstrated consistent strength, rising from $472,270 in 2014 to $593,614 in 2019, before reaching $793,473 in 2024 – marking a substantial 68% ten-year appreciation and 33.7% five-year growth. This prestigious community, often called Philadelphia’s “Garden District,” sits atop a hill overlooking the Wissahickon Valley. The neighborhood is distinguished by its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and boutique shopping along Germantown Avenue, making it one of Philadelphia’s most coveted addresses.
