How to Find Co-Working Spaces in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, one of America’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, has evolved into a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote workers, and startups. With its affordable cost of living compared to New York or San Francisco, strong public transit, and vibrant neighborhoods, Philadelphia offers an ideal environment for professionals seeking flexibility and community. Co-working spaces have become essential infrastructure in this evolving workforce landscape—providing not just desks and Wi-Fi, but access to networks, events, mentorship, and inspiration.

Finding the right co-working space in Philadelphia isn’t just about securing a place to work—it’s about aligning your professional identity, work style, budget, and goals with a physical environment that supports them. Whether you’re a solo freelancer looking for quiet focus, a startup founder needing meeting rooms and investor access, or a digital nomad seeking a dynamic social atmosphere, Philadelphia has options tailored to your needs.

This guide walks you through every step of finding, evaluating, and selecting the perfect co-working space in Philadelphia. You’ll learn practical strategies, insider tips, recommended tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions—all designed to help you make an informed, confident decision. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to look, what to ask, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to wasted time and money.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Define Your Needs and Priorities

Before you start browsing listings or visiting locations, take time to reflect on what you truly need from a co-working space. Ask yourself:

• Do I need a dedicated desk, or is hot-desking sufficient?
• How often will I be there? Daily, weekly, or only for meetings?
• Do I require private offices, phone booths, or soundproof rooms?
• Is high-speed internet, printing, and mail handling important?
• Do I value networking events, workshops, or community activities?
• What’s my budget? Monthly, weekly, or pay-as-you-go?

These questions will help you filter options later. For example, if you’re a graphic designer who needs natural light and a quiet environment, you’ll prioritize spaces with large windows and noise-reducing zones. If you’re a startup CEO, you may prioritize access to investor meetups or venture capital events hosted by the space.

2. Identify Your Preferred Neighborhoods

Philadelphia’s co-working scene is spread across diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and advantages:

• Downtown/Center City: The most concentrated area for professional services, with high-end spaces, proximity to law firms, banks, and corporate clients. Ideal for consultants and B2B freelancers.
• University City: Home to UPenn, Drexel, and other academic institutions. Offers a youthful, innovative vibe with strong tech and research ties. Great for academic entrepreneurs and health tech startups.
• West Philadelphia: More affordable, growing arts and tech scene. Popular with creatives and socially conscious founders.
• Old City: Historic charm, boutique studios, and a creative community. Excellent for designers, writers, and artists.
• South Philadelphia: Emerging industrial conversions and warehouse-style spaces. Ideal for makers, manufacturers, and hybrid creative/production teams.
• Fishtown and Northern Liberties: Trendy, hip, and community-driven. Popular with digital nomads and remote workers who value atmosphere and social energy.

Consider commute time, parking availability, public transit access (SEPTA), and nearby amenities like coffee shops, lunch spots, and gyms. Your daily experience will be shaped as much by your neighborhood as by the space itself.

3. Use Online Directories and Aggregators

Start your search using trusted online platforms that specialize in co-working spaces. These tools allow you to filter by location, price, amenities, and member reviews:

• Deskmate: A global directory with detailed listings for Philadelphia spaces, including photos, pricing tiers, and member ratings.
• Coworker.com: One of the most comprehensive databases. You can compare multiple spaces side-by-side, read verified reviews, and even book a day pass directly.
• Google Maps: Search “co-working space Philadelphia” and filter by rating, distance, and open hours. Look for spaces with 4.5+ stars and recent reviews.
• LinkedIn: Search for groups like “Philadelphia Freelancers” or “Philly Startup Scene.” Members often share firsthand experiences and recommendations.
• Facebook Groups: Join “Philadelphia Remote Workers” or “Philly Co-Working Community.” These are goldmines for real-time advice and hidden gems not listed on commercial platforms.

Don’t rely on a single source. Cross-reference listings across platforms to ensure accuracy and uncover spaces that may not have invested in digital marketing.

4. Visit in Person (Always)

Photos and descriptions can be misleading. Nothing replaces a physical visit. Schedule tours at 3–5 shortlisted spaces during your typical work hours. Observe:

• Is the space clean and well-maintained?
• Are there enough outlets, lighting, and ergonomic chairs?
• Is the Wi-Fi fast and reliable? Ask to test it with your device.
• How noisy is it? Is there a quiet zone or phone booth for calls?
• Are there kitchen facilities? Are they stocked with coffee, tea, and water?
• What’s the vibe? Are people focused, social, or indifferent?

Ask staff or current members about:

• Membership flexibility (can you pause or downgrade?)
• Guest policies (can you bring clients?)
• Event frequency (how often are networking events held?)
• Lockers or storage options
• After-hours access and security

Pay attention to how the staff responds. Are they enthusiastic and helpful, or dismissive and transactional? Your experience with the community manager will impact your day-to-day satisfaction.

5. Test a Day Pass or Trial Membership

Most Philadelphia co-working spaces offer day passes ($20–$40) or one-week trials. Take advantage of these. Use the trial period to:

• Work a full day as you normally would
• Attend a free event or happy hour if offered
• Interact with other members
• Test the internet during peak hours
• See if the space feels like a place you’d want to return to daily

Many people discover that a space that looked perfect on paper feels isolating or chaotic in practice. A trial lets you experience the real rhythm of the environment before committing.

6. Compare Pricing Models

Co-working pricing in Philadelphia varies widely. Understand the different models:

• Dedicated Desk: $250–$550/month. Your own assigned desk in an open area. Best for daily users who want consistency.
• Hot Desk: $150–$350/month. Access to any open desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Good for flexible schedules.
• Private Office: $600–$2,000+/month. Enclosed rooms for teams of 1–10+. Ideal for small businesses needing privacy and branding.
• Day Pass: $25–$50/day. Pay-as-you-go. Great for occasional users or travelers.
• Virtual Office: $50–$150/month. Mail handling, phone answering, and occasional meeting room access—no physical desk.

Watch out for hidden fees: administrative charges, cleaning fees, parking fees, or mandatory event attendance. Always read the fine print. Some spaces include utilities and high-speed internet, while others charge extra for printing or conference room use.

7. Evaluate Community and Culture

One of the biggest differentiators between co-working spaces is community. A space with 100 members but no interaction is just a rented office. A space with 30 members who host weekly skill shares, happy hours, and collaborative projects is a true ecosystem.

Ask:

• What kinds of events are hosted monthly? (e.g., pitch nights, UX workshops, writer’s circles)
• Is there a community manager? What’s their role?
• Are members from diverse industries or clustered in one field?
• Can you connect with other members through Slack, email lists, or apps?

Spaces like Philadelphia Works and Workplace Philly are known for their active Slack communities and member-led initiatives. These networks often lead to client referrals, partnerships, and friendships that extend beyond the workspace.

8. Check for Flexibility and Scalability

Your needs may change. If you start as a freelancer and grow into a team of four, can you easily upgrade to a private office? Can you add more members without renegotiating your contract? Are there penalties for early termination?

Look for month-to-month agreements. Avoid long-term leases unless you’re certain. Many newer spaces in Philadelphia offer flexible terms—especially those catering to startups and digital nomads.

9. Consider Accessibility and Amenities

Look beyond the desk. Consider:

• Proximity to public transit (SEPTA regional rail, subway, bus)
• On-site parking or nearby paid lots
• Accessibility features for people with disabilities
• On-site fitness centers or wellness rooms
• Childcare options or family-friendly hours
• Organic snacks, kombucha, or healthy food options

These factors contribute to long-term satisfaction. A space that’s 10 minutes from your home with a great coffee bar and quiet zones may be more valuable than a flashy downtown location with a 45-minute commute.

10. Read the Fine Print and Sign Up

Before signing any agreement:

• Confirm what’s included in your rate (internet, printing, cleaning, utilities)
• Understand cancellation policies and notice periods
• Check if there’s a membership waiting list
• Ask about insurance coverage for your equipment
• Clarify guest access rules and meeting room booking procedures

Once you’re confident, proceed with your chosen plan. Many spaces offer a 10–15% discount for paying quarterly or annually upfront—worth considering if your budget allows.

Best Practices

1. Don’t Choose Based on Aesthetics Alone

Stylish interiors with exposed brick and Edison bulbs are appealing, but they don’t guarantee productivity. A space that looks Instagram-worthy but has slow Wi-Fi, no natural light, or constant noise will drain your energy. Prioritize function over form.

2. Network Before You Join

Attend a free event or open house before committing. Many spaces host “Meet the Members” nights or coffee mornings. This lets you gauge the community’s energy and see if your personality and goals align.

3. Start Small, Scale Later

If you’re unsure, begin with a day pass or hot desk. You can always upgrade later. Many professionals start with a low-cost option and transition to a private office after six months—once they’ve outgrown their home office and need more structure.

4. Be an Active Member

Co-working spaces thrive on participation. Attend events, introduce yourself to others, share your skills, and offer help. The more engaged you are, the more value you’ll receive—not just in resources, but in relationships that can lead to clients, collaborators, or mentors.

5. Track Your ROI

Ask yourself: Is this space helping me be more productive, connected, and satisfied than working from home or a café? If not, it’s time to reassess. Keep a simple log: note your focus level, number of meaningful interactions, and overall mood each day. After two weeks, review the data.

6. Consider Hybrid Options

Many professionals split their time between a co-working space and home or a local café. This reduces costs and prevents burnout. Look for spaces that offer flexible access—like 10 days per month instead of unlimited—to match your rhythm.

7. Leverage Local Business Associations

Philadelphia has strong local business networks like the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, Philly Tech Alliance, and Small Business Development Center (SBDC). These organizations often partner with co-working spaces to offer discounted memberships or exclusive events to members.

8. Avoid Over-Spending Early

It’s tempting to choose the most luxurious space when you’re starting out. But if you’re bootstrapping, a mid-tier option with solid Wi-Fi and a supportive community will serve you better than a $1,000/month private office with no networking.

9. Use Co-Working as a Marketing Tool

Your address matters. If you’re a consultant or freelancer, having a professional Philadelphia address (even just for mail) adds credibility. Some spaces offer virtual office packages that include a business address, mail forwarding, and professional receptionist services—ideal for clients who expect a physical presence.

10. Re-Evaluate Quarterly

Your needs will change. After three months, ask: Has your work style shifted? Are you attending events regularly? Is the location still convenient? Don’t stay in a space out of inertia. Reassess every quarter and be ready to move if it’s no longer the right fit.

Tools and Resources

Online Directories

• Coworker.com – Comprehensive global database with filters for price, amenities, and reviews.
• Deskmate – Focused on North American markets; includes photos, floor plans, and pricing tiers.
• Google Maps – Search “co-working space near me” and sort by rating, distance, and recent reviews.
• Yelp – Read authentic customer feedback on cleanliness, staff, and atmosphere.

Community Platforms

• LinkedIn Groups – Search “Philadelphia Freelancers,” “Philly Startup Community,” or “Remote Workers Philadelphia.”
• Facebook Groups – “Philadelphia Co-Working Network,” “Philly Digital Nomads,” “Philly Remote Work Life.”
• Meetup.com – Find co-working-related events, workshops, and mixers hosted by local spaces.
• Slack Communities – Many spaces have private Slack channels. Ask during your tour if one exists.

Local Organizations

• Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce – Offers resources and partnerships with co-working providers.
• Philly Tech Alliance – Connects tech professionals and often promotes tech-friendly co-working spaces.
• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Free consulting and sometimes discounted space access for qualifying startups.
• Women’s Business Center of Philadelphia – Supports female entrepreneurs and may have partnerships with inclusive co-working spaces.

Apps and Tools for Productivity

• Calendly – Schedule client meetings in your co-working space’s conference room.
• Notion – Track your co-working space evaluations, pros/cons, and visit notes.
• Google Calendar – Block time for co-working days and set reminders for event sign-ups.
• Evernote – Save flyers, brochures, and emails from space managers for comparison.

Books and Guides

• The Co-Working Revolution by Rachel Botsman – Explores the cultural and economic shift behind shared workspaces.
• Remote: Office Not Required by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson – Offers insights on designing your ideal work environment.
• Work From Anywhere by Tom Mochal – Practical advice for digital nomads and remote professionals.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Freelance Graphic Designer

Maria worked from home for two years but struggled with isolation and distractions. She started her search on Coworker.com and shortlisted three spaces in Old City: Studio 33, Workplace Philly, and The Foundry.

She booked day passes at each. Studio 33 had beautiful light but was often noisy. Workplace Philly had a quiet zone but limited kitchen access. The Foundry offered both—a sunlit open area, a dedicated quiet room, weekly design critiques, and free coffee.

She signed up for a hot desk at The Foundry for $275/month. Within a month, she met a local startup founder who hired her for a branding project. She now attends the monthly “Design Circle” event and has built a small client base through referrals.

Example 2: James and Lena, Co-Founders of a Health Tech Startup

James and Lena were working from a coffee shop while developing their app. They needed a private office with meeting rooms to host investors. They used Deskmate to filter for “private offices under $1,200” in University City.

They visited Philly Works and LaunchBox. LaunchBox offered a 2-person office for $950/month, included 10 hours of meeting room time, and hosted weekly pitch nights with local VCs.

They signed a 6-month agreement. Within three months, they presented at a LaunchBox pitch event and secured a $50,000 seed investment. The space’s network was critical to their growth.

Example 3: David, Remote Worker from Canada

David relocated to Philadelphia for three months to work remotely for his Toronto-based company. He needed a reliable space with fast internet and a professional address.

He chose Virtual Philly, a virtual office provider that also offered day passes. For $120/month, he got a downtown Philadelphia business address, mail forwarding, and access to meeting rooms for $25/hour.

He worked from the space 3 days a week, using the rest for cafes and parks. He appreciated the flexibility and the ability to list his Philadelphia address on his email signature—boosting credibility with U.S.-based clients.

Example 4: Aisha, Nonprofit Program Manager

Aisha worked for a nonprofit and needed a quiet, affordable space to write grant proposals. She couldn’t afford a full-time membership but needed more structure than her home office.

She discovered Philadelphia Works offered a “Social Impact Membership” at 50% off for nonprofit employees. For $150/month, she got a hot desk, printing credits, and access to workshops on fundraising and nonprofit management.

She also joined their monthly “Nonprofit Network” gathering, where she connected with other mission-driven professionals and later collaborated on a joint funding initiative.

FAQs

What is the average cost of a co-working space in Philadelphia?

Prices vary by location and type. A hot desk typically ranges from $150–$350/month, while a dedicated desk is $250–$550. Private offices start around $600 and can exceed $2,000 for premium locations or larger teams. Day passes cost $25–$50.

Can I bring clients to a co-working space?

Yes, most spaces allow clients, but policies vary. Some require advance booking for meeting rooms, while others permit casual client meetings at your desk. Always check the guest policy before bringing someone in.

Are co-working spaces in Philadelphia pet-friendly?

Some are. Spaces like Workplace Philly and The Foundry welcome well-behaved dogs on weekdays. Others have strict no-pet policies. Always confirm before bringing your pet.

Do co-working spaces offer internet and printing services?

Most include high-speed Wi-Fi, but printing and scanning may be limited or charged per page. Premium memberships often include unlimited printing. Always verify what’s included.

Can I pause my membership if I go on vacation?

Many Philadelphia spaces offer flexible plans that allow you to freeze your membership for up to 30 days without penalty. Ask about this during your tour.

Are there co-working spaces for women or underrepresented groups?

Yes. SheWorks Philly is a women-led co-working community offering safe, inclusive environments. Philly Works and LaunchBox also prioritize diversity and offer discounted rates for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.

Is it better to choose a space near my home or near my clients?

It depends. If you’re client-facing, proximity to clients may be more important. If you’re focused on deep work, a space near home reduces commute stress. Many professionals choose a balance—e.g., one space near home for daily work, another downtown for meetings.

What’s the difference between a co-working space and a business center?

Business centers (like Regus) often offer rigid leases, corporate branding, and less community. Co-working spaces emphasize flexibility, community, and collaboration. Co-working is more dynamic and social; business centers are more transactional.

Can I use a co-working space for video calls?

Absolutely. Most spaces have quiet zones, phone booths, or private meeting rooms designed for calls. Some even offer professional backdrops and lighting setups for Zoom recordings.

How do I know if a co-working space is reputable?

Look for: consistent 4.5+ star ratings on Google and Coworker.com, active social media, transparent pricing, and positive member testimonials. Avoid spaces with no reviews or vague contract terms.

Conclusion

Finding the right co-working space in Philadelphia isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. It requires intentionality, research, and personal experimentation. The city’s diversity of neighborhoods, pricing tiers, and community cultures means there’s a perfect fit for nearly every professional—whether you’re a solopreneur, a growing startup, or a remote worker seeking connection.

By following this guide—from defining your needs and visiting spaces in person, to testing trial passes and evaluating community—you’ll move beyond surface-level choices and find a space that actively supports your growth, productivity, and well-being.

Remember: the best co-working space isn’t the most expensive or the most stylish. It’s the one where you feel inspired, focused, and connected. Where your ideas are welcomed, your questions are answered, and your work feels meaningful.

Philadelphia’s co-working ecosystem is thriving because of its people—not its furniture. So don’t just rent a desk. Join a community. Show up. Engage. And let your workspace become a catalyst for your next big leap.