So we've found some possible cheapo lofts right near the Berks El stop at Howard and Montgomery. The blocks immediately surrounding the place seemed fine to me, but I wonder what it's like at night. I'm a pretty tiny girl, and while not a full-blown hipster do work in an architecture firm and dress appropriately. My hunch is that it's fine, but always better to check with people who actually know.

And are there any other areas good to avoid, especially as a public transit user?

Thanks again

I'm predicting that you will get a variety of opinions on this - now. But that 5 years ago the general agreement would have been "No get off at Girard".

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I've lived about a block from the Berks stop for about 8 months, and find the area to be decent enough. The usual rules of urban common sense do, of course, apply, but for the most part, I've found the walk from the El to my house to be safe. I

That said, I wouldn't want to have to walk any more than I have to at night (which is about a block and a half) in that area. It's not among the city's worst, by any means, but it is still what they tactfully call "up and coming." Just be careful.

I give this neighborhood 3-5 years before it's the new Northern Liberties.

I'm a girl and I get on/off this train every single day and night.

I've never had a problem, but always look behind you when you walk. Don't talk to any men you don't know.

There are plenty of professionals in the area who use the station. I think you'll be just fine.

Happy commuting!

the berks stop is fine, now worries. i'd be more afraid of getting off on girard and walking up with all the scary crack whores lining the street. just last week one flashed her saggy boob at me with a toothless grin... ew.

just out of curiosity, where are these lofts you talk about? i recently did an apartment search in the area, but didn't come across anything worthwhile (or inexpensive- $750 for a 1BR in that area?? no way.)

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Like others said, it's not that bad. The only issue I can think of is that it gets pretty desolate at night, which isn't the best environment for a girl to be in. I have seen alot of "hispter-ish" people coming to Berks from west of Front, so there are definitely new people moving to the area, but you'll have to make your own judgement call.

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I live a few blocks NE of the Berks El. It is definitely a bit desolate but I have never had any problems or felt uncomfortable there.
You may get flash of crack whore boob on occassion as warned by kd592 but thats about it. For better or worse Berks has less activity than Girard or York

I don't think any of the ladies of the evening try to expose their wares to the women. Thank goodness for that.

$750 for a one-bedroom in Kensington!?!?! Are you serious? You could buy in Symphony House or Western Union or even 10 Rittenhouse for that! Who would ever pay so much money for that area? (no offense, people who live there.)

Well, since he was looking for appartments, I'm guessing $750 was the rent....which still seems a bit excessive, but certainly not the way you must've understood it.

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