The Ryland — Local services in Philadelphia

I am writing this review after living roughly a year here at Ryland, and if you had stumbled upon this post, you really don’t need to look at other places. If the rent is in your budget, save some time and I’d consider moving in.

First off, I’ll start with the downsides (I really had to think to come up with them). The parking fee was a bit too high for my liking. But there is a parking garage at the Hilton across the street for a fraction of the price so it wasn’t really a problem. There are some noise from the Spruce Street park, but it usually only lasts a couple of hours on Fri&Sat and it’s not every week. So it wasn’t a problem for me at all.

And… that’s about it.

So here are some great things :)

If you prioritize natural light, this is the place. Amazing view (I’ve searched and toured almost all “luxury” apartments in philly and this is hands down the best at this price), floor to ceiling windows, no obstruction of view.

Clean, high quality, well-maintenanced. Both your apartment and the amenities are clean and REGULARLY maintenance. I’m a neat freak but the maintenance crew are something else. For instance, I use the offices for studying a lot and the chairs are suede. The next day, when I come back, the chairs are cleaned and swiped (like a well mowed lawn). I’d sit on it, come back next day, same thing: swiped and cleaned. Unreal.

Everyone here is so kind! From the leasing office to maintenance crew, and concierge to other residents as well. I’ve met many great people and made friends along the way. Also, Ryland gives these whiskey glasses at move-in, but I’ve accidentally broke both which was sad. I asked the leasing office for another one to keep as souvenir, expecting a no or extra payment, but they gave another one for free which was really sweet:)

Ryland hosts events for residents regularly. They’d give out food and drinks and some months they give out breakfast at the lobby which was amazing and I’ve never seen an apartment do that.

Location! Old City is really calm and cute with everything within walkable distance. If you don’t want to walk, don’t worry there are bus stops right in front of the front door. Also, I-95 is easy to get on which was great for my GF and I who commute. either from your apartment or the rooftop, you get VIP view for fireworks. NYE and 4th of July was amazing but you get so many more. I think I’ve seen more fireworks here than in my life.

(I’m definitely forgetting some more but this is enough)

My GF and I came in with high standards but Ryland did not disappoint. If I ever come back to Philly, I’ll most definitely...

I didn’t enjoy living at the Ryland for many reasons. Here are a few: 1) I-95 is just below and it’s LOUD - like living next to a train station or airport. It’s not white noise like how car traffic is sometimes - and the way the park was built over the highway at Penns Landing the noise is amplified. I asked about this prior to moving in and of course the management was like, “Oh no, its completely silent.” 2). The management is so drunk on the corporate Kool-Aid they can’t even believe it when there is a problem or when they receive a complaint. They look at you like, “But what you do mean, everything is perfect here at The Ryland.” 3). HVAC systems are in each unit and are cheap single speed - this means they sound like a jet engine when they kick on. For such a high end building, this essentially turns each unit into having loud cheap window AC units. 4). The focus of the building is all on amenities- while the units are average and tiny. But guess where the high speed fancy HVAC units are? Everywhere else but the living units. The Ryland tries to smooth this over by constantly planning silly meet ups and happy hours - and I get it - it’s cheaper to skimp on the units and just plan food truck events and have a gym. 5). They have an in-house shared WiFi that is horrible - it disconnects about 4 times during a game or streaming a movie. You are forced to use it and have to pay a “technology fee” to access. It’s a shakedown and an excuse to charge tenants. 6). The only good thing about The Ryland is the concierge- they are helpful and friendly - and they are not fake - they are sincere - especially the evening and...

I’ve lived at The Ryland for about a year and a half, and it has truly been a wonderful place to call home. The location itself is hard to beat — the neighborhood is vibrant and walkable, and having a weekend farmers market just steps away adds so much character and convenience to daily life.

What really distinguishes The Ryland, though, is the people who make the building feel like a community. Kiana leads with a warm, upbeat energy that creates a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Her approach sets a positive tone that carries through every interaction.

Jeff, the head of facilities and maintenance, is exceptional. The building is always immaculate and everything runs seamlessly, but what stands out most is the attitude he and his team bring. They’re consistently friendly, approachable, and willing to go the extra mile — even when it’s outside the scope of their job. That level of pride and care is rare, and it makes a tangible difference.

The front desk team deserves equal praise. They’re professional, kind, and attentive, greeting residents with warmth and always ready to assist with both the everyday and the unexpected. Their presence adds to the sense of ease and comfort here.

Altogether, The Ryland offers far more than beautiful spaces and convenient amenities. It’s the people who create a supportive, welcoming environment that makes the building feel less like an apartment and more like...