Location Transport

Is the public transportation in Philadelphia good?

I am thinking of moving to the suburbs of Philadelphia, but I won't have a car. Can anyone tell me their opinions on the public transportation there and how they like living in Philly?

Public Comments

1. Living in the suburbs of Philadelphia and using public transportation is a great way to go, but living in Philly is not. Public transportation into, and around the city of Philly is good, but will become a lot more expensive if they eliminate the free transfers like they are considering. Having said all that, getting around the suburb might be a major chore without wheels.
2. i used to live in the NE section of Philly (Mayfair). the mass transit system pretty much got me where i needed to go before i was old enough to drive and then when i started working in center city. but as far as living in the suburbs goes, as long as you will live near a rail station or bus route you won't have a problem getting into the city but getting around your own area won't be so easy since the suburban routes fan out of the city and don't do much cris-crossing as they do within the city limits where you can transfer from one bus line to the subway to another bus line, etc.
3. EXPENSIVE as hell, the most expensive in the U.S. I live in the city without a car and I don't need one. I take s.e.p.t.a. regional rail to the airport for work.It is pretty reliable, but again quite expensive.Philly is a great city, with lots to do and an incredible night life.If you move to the 'burbs just make sure all your necessities are within walking distance . You will be fine.
4. You can take a Septa train downtown from most of the burbs, but you need a car to get around the burbs.
5. Living in the 'burbs without a car is not ideal, but it's definitely "do-able". If you plan to live and work in the same neighborhood, then you can probably get by with using a single bus route or two, which should be okay. On the other hand, if you’re commuting daily to downtown Philly, then DO NOT rely on the bus as your primary means of travel. Instead, make sure you live in close proximity to a regional rail station or high-speed trolley (Routes 100, 101 or 102). They’re pretty reliable, faster and more efficient. Use the bus route as an alternative back-up. And when I say close proximity, I mean 2-3 walk-able blocks! Realtors and landlords will note "public transit nearby", but check it out first hand. Actually walk the distance from the residence to the transit stop. Consider how safe or convenient that same walk will be at night and in the rain during the winter months while carrying groceries! (It's a scenario that the car-owning realtor doesn't have to think about.) Also, make sure that all your basic amenities are close by, too-- supermarket, dry cleaners, drug store. In fact, if these stores are on route to the stations, then it's golden!! Some of the stations are bustling transit hubs with lots of stores and commuter activity, while other stations are in secluded areas with nothing more than a streetlamp and a bench. So, thoroughly do your pedestrian homework and foot research. Too, consider your nighttime and weekend social activities. Some bus and train routes run infrequently or not at all after 7pm and/or weekends. Living in the suburbs without a car can cripple a social life, or at least hamper it. It sucks when you have to leave early from a dinner party or concert, b/c the last train to the 'burbs departs at 9:37pm. And by the way: I presumed that you meant the PA 'burbs (in Montgomery or Delaware County)— not New Jersey. Whatever you decide, do not, Do Not, DO NOT LIVE IN NEW JERSEY WITHOUT A CAR!! When you cross the bridge into Jersey on public transit, the convenience factor drops dramatically!! Don't test this theory. Just trust me on blind faith. Welcome to Philly. .
6. SEPTA is ok. Lots of lines, lots of options.