Philadelphia Economic Development & Growth Overview
Our Region’s Vibrant Urban Hub
Philadelphia is located in the heart of the U.S. Northeast Corridor, offering a growing urban center supported by nationally ranked hospitals and universities, world‑class cultural institutions, and four major professional sports leagues. As the second‑largest city on the East Coast, Philadelphia pairs historic character with sustained economic development that continues to drive business expansion and corporate relocation. High‑growth industries including life sciences, financial services, technology, and advanced manufacturing are fueled by a diverse, highly skilled workforce, vibrant business districts, and emerging opportunity zones that support long‑term investment and growth.
Sections at a Glance
WHY CHOOSE PHILADELPHIA – BE PART OF HISTORY – OUR INDUSTRIES – OPPORTUNITY ZONES & REAL ESTATE – SUCCESS STORIES – WORKFORCE, EDUCATION, AND QUALITY OF LIFE – CONNECT WITH US – FAQ
Top: The timeless silhouette of Philadelphia’s skyline stands as a testament to its rich past and vibrant future. Above image courtesy of Brandywine Realty Trust.
Why Do Companies and Talent Choose Philadelphia
We foster public-private partnerships in collaboration with the City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce and The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, attracting both domestic and international companies to one of the nation’s leading centers of economic growth. Through our concierge-level service model, we guide businesses through every stage of the process, from site selection to logistical considerations of establishing a presence in Philadelphia.
“GLG expanded to Philadelphia to tap into the city’s incredible talent and be close to leading local clients. Not to mention to be part of Philly’s incomparable culture, which energizes our work each and every day. Our Philadelphia team immediately became a vital part of GLG’s regional and global strategy – and we’re thrilled to continue investing in the one-of-a-kind city that we now call home.”
– Cindy Floyd, General Manager Americas Public Markets, GLG
Explore the Greater Philadelphia Economy
Access interactive data and insights to understand the region’s workforce, industries, and growth trends.
Be Part of History: A City of Firsts
Founded in 1682 by William Penn (the namesake of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania), the City of Philadelphia is globally recognized for its rich history. We are the Birthplace of America, where the Declaration of Independence was written, and where the Constitution of the United States was drafted and signed, establishing the government of the United States. We are also home to the Liberty Bell, a national symbol of freedom and a historical landmark.
In addition to being the nation’s first capital, the City of Philadelphia is home to many more U.S. firsts, including the Birthplace of American Medicine and the Birthplace of Cell and Gene Therapy, and is an inspiration for future innovation.
Our Fastest Growing Industries in Philadelphia
Across the city, targeted investment and innovation are fueling growth in several key industries. Life sciences, financial services, technology, and advanced manufacturing stand out as Philadelphia’s fastest growing sectors, shaping the region’s long-term economic momentum.
Life Sciences
- Philadelphia is a global leader in cell and gene therapy, supported by nationally ranked research hospitals, academic institutions, and innovation districts that accelerate commercialization and clinical advancement.
Philadelphia Opportunity Zones & Real Estate in Business Districts
Philadelphia offers a purpose‑built innovation ecosystem, with modern commercial corridors and collaborative spaces designed for growth. The city also boasts the lowest office rental rates among the top 10 U.S. metros. Our property search tool makes it easy to explore mixed‑use spaces and identify prime locations within Philadelphia’s business districts.
uCity Square
Infrastructure and Transportation
Philadelphia moves people, goods, and ideas at scale while connecting 70% of the U.S. and Canadian population within a single day’s drive. That reach makes the city a critical gateway for business, logistics, and talent.
How Philadelphia Connects Globally
Central location on the Northeast with direct access to I-76 and I-95. Two-hour flights to more than 60% of the U.S. population. Access to the Philadelphia International Airport, a major transatlantic hub with 120+ nonstop destinations. Home to Amtrak’s 30th Street Station, linking the city to the region’s largest markets. Strengthening national supply chains with The Port of Philadelphia.
How Philadelphia Moves Locally
SEPTA provides a robust public transit system with subways, trolleys, buses, and regional rail for daily travel across the city and region. Philadelphia is ranked among the most walkable cities in the United States. The city continues to invest in bike infrastructure, including expanded bike lanes and the citywide Indego bike share program.
Philadelphia Success Stories
GoPuff
Founded in Philadelphia in 2013 by Drexel University students, GoPuff scaled from a local startup into a global instant commerce platform while maintaining its headquarters in the city. The company continues to leverage Philadelphia’s talent pipeline, dense neighborhoods, and logistics infrastructure to support national and international growth.
Comcast
Comcast is one of Philadelphia’s largest employers and a global media and telecommunications leader headquartered in Center City. The company has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Philadelphia, reinforcing the city’s role as a major hub for technology and innovation.
BioAnalysis
Founded in 2019, BioAnalysis is a Philadelphia-based life sciences company specializing in gene therapy and biotherapeutics analytics. The company demonstrates how Philadelphia supports advanced scientific innovation alongside inclusive, community-focused economic growth.
“The support from the city’s Department of Commerce and the Director of Life Sciences provides valuable resources and assistance, helping companies like ours navigate the complex landscape of the biotech industry. The city of Philadelphia also provides access to innovative business solutions that amplify growth opportunities and foster collaboration with other industry players. Philadelphia’s commitment to nurturing its life sciences sector is clearly paying off, making it an attractive location for companies like BioAnalysis to prosper and contribute to the advancement of biotechnology.” – Lake N. Paul, Ph.D., Founder, Bioanalysis, LLC. (March 2024)
Workforce, Education, and Quality of Life
Philadelphia’s workforce is one of the largest and most diverse on the East Coast, with strengths across life sciences, technology, finance, manufacturing, and professional services. Employers benefit from access to experienced talent, competitive wages, and workforce development programs aligned with evolving industry needs.
Education & Programs
The region is home to a dense network of colleges, universities, and workforce training programs that consistently produce talent for high-growth industries and support ongoing skill development.
Quality of Life
Philadelphia combines affordability, connectivity, and cultural depth with vibrant neighborhoods, expansive parks, a nationally recognized food scene, and world-class arts and cultural institutions. It is an attractive place to live and work.
Take a closer look at Philadelphia’s workforce, education pipeline, and livability to understand what makes the region stand out.
Connect with Our Chamber of Commerce to Get Started on Your Business Growth
Our team partners directly with employers to support site selection, incentives, workforce planning, and long-term growth. Whether you’re exploring a new location or expanding your footprint, we are here to guide every step of the process.
FAQ
News
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