South Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
155,341
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$92,832/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
78,284
1.1% year-over-year change

South Philadelphia population

How many people live in South Philadelphia

South Philadelphia is home to 155,341 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of South Philadelphia locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
155,341
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
75,021
Female
51.7%
80,320
Value Percent YoY change
Male 75,021 48.3% 0.5%
Female 80,320 51.7% 0.9%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South Philadelphia is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 41.1% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
41.1%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 24,384 15.7% 1.8%
15 to 24 14,215 9.2% 6.6%
25 to 44 63,908 41.1% 0.7%
45 to 64 32,743 21.1% -1.0%
Over 65 20,090 12.9% -1.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South Philadelphia, 82.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.6% of locals are Caucasian, 16.7% are African American and 13.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.1%
Non-citizens
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 128,021 82.4% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,715 10.1% 8.0%
Non-citizens 11,605 7.5% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
55.6%
Black or African American
16.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
13.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
5.1%
Value Percent
White 86,376 55.6%
Black or African American 25,931 16.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 765 0.5%
Asian 21,429 13.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 74 0%
Two or more races 12,843 8.3%
Other 7,923 5.1%

Households in South Philadelphia

A peek inside South Philadelphia households

South Philadelphia has 70,844 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50% are families, while the remaining 50% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
70,844
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
35,406
Family households
35,439
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,406 50% 1.3%
Family households 35,439 50% 1.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South Philadelphia

The housing landscape of South Philadelphia

South Philadelphia's housing consists of 78,284 units, with 5.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 69.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
78,284
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,994 5.1%
1 unit, attached 54,162 69.2%
2 units 5,388 6.9%
3 or 4 units 5,677 7.2%
5 to 9 units 2,149 2.8%
10 to 19 units 1,181 1.5%
20 to 49 units 1,538 2%
50 or more units 3,917 5%
Mobile home 279 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
733
44.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Philadelphia

In South Philadelphia, the median construction year is 1939. About 53.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 42,104 53.8% 1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,260 8% -2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,036 7.7% -11.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,763 6.1% 4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,755 4.8% -0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,034 3.9% 2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,372 1.8% -15.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,348 5.6% 13.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,878 7.5% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 733 0.9% 44.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South Philadelphia occupancy rates

Out of the 70,844 occupied housing units in South Philadelphia, 57.2% are owner-occupied, while 42.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
70,844
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30,345
Owner occupied
40,499
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30,345 42.8% 4.5%
Owner occupied 40,499 57.2% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South Philadelphia housing costs

Housing costs in South Philadelphia come to a median of $1,621 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,655.

Median housing costs per month
$1,621/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South Philadelphia
$1,655/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South Philadelphia

South Philadelphia education at a glance

About 26.7% of the population in South Philadelphia went to high school, while 13.5% pursued college studies. Another 4.8% earned an associate degree and 28.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,857 4.6% 2.3%
High school diploma 33,868 26.7% -5.1%
College diploma 17,092 13.5% 4.1%
Associate degree 6,104 4.8% -3.7%
Bachelor's degree 36,305 28.7% 0.9%
Graduate degree 27,439 21.7% 4.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South Philadelphia

How much people earn in South Philadelphia

The average annual household income in South Philadelphia was $93,677 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $92,832, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Philadelphia
$93,677/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Philadelphia
$92,832/year
3.0% year-over-year change

South Philadelphia income by age

In South Philadelphia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $113,342. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,334 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,550, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,400 in earnings. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,550 7.4%
25 - 44 $113,342 4.2%
45 - 64 $82,334 -1.2%
Over 65 $43,400 2.6%
Above poverty level
130,756
Below poverty level
22,178
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 130,756 85.5% 0.2%
Below poverty level 22,178 14.5% 3.4%

Employment in South Philadelphia

Workforce and job types in South Philadelphia

88.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
77,794
Blue collar
9,922
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 77,794 88.7% 2.4%
Blue collar 9,922 11.3% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,191 8.2% 3.8%
Private companies 54,792 62.5% 2.7%
Governmental workers 8,784 10% 3.5%
Not for profit companies 16,949 19.3% -0.9%

Transportation in South Philadelphia

How people get around in South Philadelphia

In South Philadelphia, the average commute time is 102 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 57.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 16.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
102 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 32,265 57.3% -0.4%
Taxicab 483 0.9% 29.1%
Bus or trolleybus 8,005 14.2% -3.7%
Railroad 895 1.6% -1.0%
Motorcycle 298 0.5% 6.4%
Bicycle 5,326 9.5% -0.7%
Walk 9,052 16.1% -4.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in South Philadelphia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
19145 43,440 19,234 $71,965 $89,569
19146 41,058 19,489 $103,059 $144,897
19147 39,704 19,801 $105,755 $160,069
19148 50,400 21,329 $82,605 $99,772

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FAQs about South Philadelphia demographics 

What is the total population of South Philadelphia?

South Philadelphia has a total population of 155,341 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Philadelphia?

The gender ratio in South Philadelphia is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (75,021 residents)
  • 51.7% females (80,320 residents)

What is the median age in South Philadelphia?

The median age in South Philadelphia is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Philadelphia?

The age distribution in South Philadelphia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (24,384 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (14,215 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 41.1% (63,908 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (32,743 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.9% (20,090 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Philadelphia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Philadelphia is as follows:
  • White: 55.6% (86,376 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.7% (25,931 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (765 residents)
  • Asian: 13.8% (21,429 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (74 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (12,843 residents)
  • Other: 5.1% (7,923 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Philadelphia are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.4% of the population in South Philadelphia.

How many housing units are there in South Philadelphia?

There are 78,284 housing units in South Philadelphia, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Philadelphia and what is the average household size?

South Philadelphia has a total of 70,844 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Philadelphia?

South Philadelphia has a median household income of $92,832, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Philadelphia?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.7% (77,794 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.3% (9,922 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (7,191 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (54,792 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (8,784 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 19.3% (16,949 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025