It varies from community to community, but Philadelphia proper is a big sprawl of neighborhoods, ranging from high-end Center City to more reasonable parts like East Falls, Germantown, Mt. Airy and Manyunk. There is something for everyone, including very good public transportation, parks, culture, restaurants, farmers’ markets, shopping and a nice River.
Wonderful Quaker schools if you are looking for Independent day schools, and good public schools if you pick and choose carefully.