Fairhill

Fairhill

Type	Neighborhood
Location	North Philadelphia
ZIP code(s)	19133
Named for	Historic Fairhill estate
Boundaries	Roughly Lehigh Avenue to Erie Avenue, Broad Street to 5th Street
Adjacent	West Kensington, Hunting Park, Feltonville
Major streets	5th Street, Lehigh Avenue, Indiana Avenue
Transit	SEPTA bus routes
Landmarks	Fairhill Square, Latino community

Fairhill is a neighborhood in North Philadelphia with a significant Latino and Puerto Rican population. The neighborhood takes its name from a historic estate and burial ground. Fairhill faces economic challenges but has strong community organizations working on neighborhood improvement.

History

The name Fairhill comes from the estate of Isaac Norris, a colonial merchant. The Fairhill Burial Ground dates to the 18th century. The neighborhood developed as part of North Philadelphia's industrial expansion and later became home to Philadelphia's growing Puerto Rican community.

Latino Community

Fairhill is predominantly Latino:

• Puerto Rican heritage prominent
• Latino businesses and services
• Spanish-language community
• Cultural organizations
• Churches as community centers

Character

Housing

• Rowhouses
• Mix of conditions
• Significant vacancies
• Affordable prices

Challenges

• High poverty rate
• Unemployment
• Crime concerns
• Limited commercial services
• Health disparities

Assets

• Community organizations
• Cultural identity
• Affordable housing
• Near transit

Fairhill Square

Fairhill Square is a small park in the neighborhood providing green space in a densely built area.

Living in Fairhill

• Very affordable housing
• Latino community and culture
• Significant challenges
• Community organizations active

Getting There

• SEPTA buses: 3, 54, 75
• Near: Broad Street Line
• 5th Street: Main corridor

See Also

• West Kensington
• Hunting Park
• North Philadelphia