Fairmount: A Landlord's Neighborhood Guide

Neighborhood Overview

Fairmount is a charming neighborhood just north of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, known for its proximity to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Kelly Drive, and Boathouse Row. It has a quiet, residential feel with walkable access to green space and Center City. For landlords, Fairmount attracts a more settled renter who expects quality and is willing to pay for location.

Boundaries & ZIP Codes

Fairmount is generally bounded by the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the south, Fairmount Avenue to the north, North Broad Street to the east, and the Schuylkill River to the west. The ZIP code for Fairmount is 19130, which also covers parts of the Art Museum area and Spring Garden.

Transit

The Broad Street Line runs nearby with a station at Spring Garden, offering a quick ride to Center City. Bus routes 732 and 48 run along the Parkway and through the neighborhood, connecting to Center City and to the Market-Frankford Line. The Schuylkill River Trail and Kelly Drive provide a walking and cycling route along the river to Center City and Boathouse Row.

Typical Property Types

• Historic row homes with brick fronts
• Brownstone-style row homes
• Small apartment buildings
• Condo conversions in older buildings

What Renters Look For in Fairmount

• Proximity to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Kelly Drive for recreation
• Walkability to Center City — many Fairmount blocks are a 15-minute walk to City Hall
• Historic character preserved — exposed brick, original hardwood, decorative mantels
• Quiet, well-maintained streets with a residential feel
• Updated kitchens and bathrooms in buildings that retain their historic shell

Renter Profile

Fairmount attracts a mix of young professionals, established couples, and empty nesters who want proximity to Center City without the density. Renters here tend to be quieter, more settled, and willing to pay for location. Many are drawn by the museum district, the river trail, and the neighborhood's residential character. Turnover is typically lower than in trendier areas like Fishtown or Manayunk.

Common Property Issues for Landlords

• Historic row homes may have old galvanized or lead plumbing that needs replacement
• Masonry repointing is often needed on brick fronts — moisture intrusion through deteriorated mortar is common
• Properties built before 1978 require lead-safe certification before a new tenant can move in
• Single-pane windows in unrestored homes lead to high heating bills in winter; tenants notice
• Some blocks near the Parkway experience event-related traffic and parking congestion on museum event days

Landlord Tips for Fairmount

• Historic character is a selling point — preserve original details where possible.
• Proximity to the Art Museum and Kelly Drive should be in every listing.
• Renters here expect cleaner, better-maintained properties than in student-heavy areas.
• Green spaces and walkability are top selling points.

Licensing Reminders

• A Philadelphia Rental License is required for every rental unit, including condos in converted buildings.
• Pre-1978 properties need lead-safe certification before a new tenant moves in — most Fairmount row homes qualify.
• A Certificate of Rental Suitability is required at each new lease signing.
• If the property is part of a homeowner association, confirm whether the condo association has its own rental restrictions or registration requirements in addition to the city license.