Why Do Business in Philadelphia?

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Located midway between New York and Washington DC Philadelphia is a strategic location on the East Coast, and is at the center of a dynamic and thriving region of over 6.1 million people. We offer an ideal environment for established companies and entrepreneurs.

  • Philadelphia is the nation’s fifth largest city, with the third largest residential downtown in the country.
  • Compared to major peer cities in the northeast region, affordable Class A office rental rates, lower labor costs, and inexpensive cost of living, make Philadelphia a smart financial choice for your business location. Read more.
  • In partnership with the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation, the City works with companies of all types to offer resources and incentives for new and growing businesses in Philadelphia, including:
    • Low-cost financing and tax credits for job creation
    • Site selection assistance for publically owned properties
    • Assistance to support workforce recruiting and training

Call the Department of Commerce at 215.683.2100 or email startupphl@phila.gov for more details.

Key Sectors in Philadelphia

The City’s economy is anchored by a diverse set of industries, such as life sciences and healthcare, professional services, advanced manufacturing and logistics, hospitality and a growing startup community.

With tens of thousands of tech workers, Philadelphia’s tech scene is a tight-knit community that finds collaboration and innovation from within.
Philadelphia’s rich manufacturing heritage has developed into a diverse and sophisticated advanced manufacturing sector today.
Strong research infrastructure supports the nation’s 2nd largest Life Sciences clusters.
Our clean technology sector is supported by a network of private and public resources that attracts growing companies.
With one of the most vibrant art, theater, music and museum scenes in the country, private creative firms thrive in Philadelphia.
From automobiles to pharmaceuticals, diverse industries take advantage of Philadelphia’s transportation networks.
The City has made substantial investments in its convention and tourism infrastructure, driving private investment in hotels.
Revisions to City tax regulations have enhanced the business climate for investment companies.

International Business Attraction

The City of Philadelphia invites businesses from around the world to explore the many benefits of locating here. A diverse city with a growing international reputation of vibrancy and excellence, 17% of Philadelphia’s population are foreign-born or immigrants.

We play an integral part in attracting foreign business and investment and increasing opportunities for Philadelphia-based companies looking to expand abroad, whatever the size or industry. We provide comprehensive assistance through our strategic partnership with key partners such as the World Trade Center, Philadelphia Convention and Visitor Bureau, State of Pennsylvania, and International Visitors Council.

We can help you identify:

  • Best markets and networks
  • Trade leads
  • Investment opportunities
  • Financing Location Financial Incentives

Commerce also helps coordinate inbound and outbound trade missions for Philadelphia representatives, raising our profile among foreign investors and increase international business opportunities for Philadelphia businesses.