Hillcrest Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Hillcrest is a quiet, residential neighborhood nestled in the far northwest corner of Philadelphia, bordering Montgomery County. Its location provides a distinct suburban feel within the city limits, characterized by winding, hilly streets, mature trees, and a strong sense of community. The area was largely developed in the mid-20th century, with many homes built in the post-World War II boom, attracting families seeking more space and a greener environment while maintaining a Philadelphia address.
The neighborhood is bounded roughly by Stenton Avenue to the east, Washington Lane to the south, and the county line to the north and west. This proximity to Cheltenham Township and Springfield Township (Montgomery County) influences its character, blending city accessibility with a quieter, more spacious atmosphere. Hillcrest is known for its stability and low crime rates, making it one of the city's hidden residential gems, often overshadowed by more centrally located neighborhoods.
Housing & Real Estate
Hillcrest's housing stock is predominantly composed of single-family homes, including Cape Cods, split-levels, colonials, and ranchers built from the 1940s through the 1960s. Lots are generally more generous than in rowhouse-dominated neighborhoods, featuring front and back yards that contribute to the area's leafy, suburban aesthetic. There are also some well-maintained twin homes and a limited number of small apartment buildings along the major corridors.
As a highly desirable neighborhood within the city, Hillcrest commands some of the highest real estate prices in Philadelphia, often comparable to nearby suburban markets. The market is primarily owner-occupied, with a high rate of homeownership. Recent trends show steady demand, with homes selling quickly, often after competitive bidding. Prices have seen consistent appreciation, driven by the neighborhood's safety, schools, and unique offering of suburban living with a city tax structure.
Schools & Education
Hillcrest is part of the Philadelphia School District but is uniquely served by the coveted Henry H. Houston Elementary School, a K-8 institution located within the neighborhood. Houston is consistently ranked among the top district schools in the city, known for strong academic performance and active parental involvement. This high-performing neighborhood school is a primary draw for families moving to the area.
For high school, students are zoned for Martin L. King High School, though many families also explore selective admission magnet schools, private schools, or options in nearby Montgomery County. The neighborhood is also in close proximity to several respected private and parochial schools in both Philadelphia and the suburbs, including Cheltenham Township schools for those living on the border, providing a range of educational choices for residents.
Parks & Recreation
Hillcrest is directly adjacent to one of Philadelphia's largest and most beloved green spaces: Fairmount Park's Northwestern Avenue section. This expansive parkland offers extensive trails for walking, running, and mountain biking through wooded areas, along with picnic groves and open fields. The nearby Carpenter's Woods, part of the Wissahickon Valley Park system, provides additional serene hiking opportunities just minutes away.
Within the neighborhood itself, multiple small playgrounds and pocket parks serve local families, including the Hillcrest Recreation Center, which features athletic fields, basketball courts, and a playground. The neighborhood's hilly topography and quiet streets also make it popular for walking and jogging. For golf enthusiasts, the historic Cedarbrook Country Club is situated at its western edge, adding to the recreational amenities.
Local Dining & Shopping
Hillcrest is primarily residential, so its commercial offerings are modest and focused on convenience. The main shopping corridor is along Stenton Avenue, which features essential services like a supermarket, pharmacies, and various small businesses. For a wider array of dining and retail, residents typically take short drives to nearby commercial hubs such as Chestnut Hill, Mount Airy, or the shopping centers of Cheltenham Township.
Chestnut Hill, just to the south, offers a vibrant main street with boutique shopping, diverse restaurants, and cafes. The neighborhood does have a few local staples, including classic pizza shops and casual takeout spots. For grocery needs, besides the Stenton Avenue options, the popular Weavers Way Co-op in Mount Airy and the Whole Foods in Plymouth Meeting are easily accessible, catering to the community's preferences for quality and organic products.
Who Lives Here
Hillcrest is predominantly home to established families, professionals, and long-term residents who value tranquility, safety, and excellent public schools. The community is known for being tight-knit and civically engaged, with active neighborhood associations and community groups that organize events and maintain the area's high standards. The population is largely middle to upper-middle class, with a significant number of homeowners who have lived in the neighborhood for decades.
New residents are often drawn by the unique combination of a top-tier Philadelphia school district elementary school and a suburban lifestyle rarely found within the city. The neighborhood also attracts empty-nesters looking to downsize without leaving the community they love, as well as professionals working in Center City or the northwestern suburbs who appreciate the easy commute via regional rail or the nearby expressways. The overall vibe is one of quiet stability and pride of place.
Top Real Estate Agents in Hillcrest, Philadelphia
Merit Criteria — Agents must hold an active license verified by
Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission, maintain a minimum 4.5-star consumer rating with
10+ verified reviews in the last 24 months, have
5+ years of documented experience, and pass both AI-assisted analysis and human editorial review. Fewer than 1% of licensed agents in covered markets qualify. No agent can pay for inclusion or ranking position.
28 agents met the full merit gate for Hillcrest, Philadelphia, PA, selected from over 70,000 licensed Pennsylvania professionals.
5.0 stars
569+ verified reviews
License: 1399158
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
44+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 838-8090
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sellsandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gregg%20Neuman
Why selected: Selected for his 44-year community tenure and leadership since 1981, which is paramount. He demonstrates elite performance with 2,782 career transactions, a 5-star rating from 569 reviews, and consistent high-volume sales.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
125+ verified reviews
License: 2247432
Lewis Realty
22+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 509-7871
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://gregandjanetlewis.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Greg%20and%20Janet%20Lewis
Why selected: Selected for her two decades of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest-ranking criterion. She is further distinguished by her 125 five-star reviews and over 20 years of consistent market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
111+ verified reviews
License: 1866567
RE/MAX Pacific
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 977-8364
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.remaxmax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/San%20Diego%20Home
Why selected: Selected for his strong community commitment, including supporting Children's Miracle Network and PTA/PTO involvement. He demonstrates top-tier performance with 111 five-star reviews and recognition as a top 1% producer since 2009.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
93+ verified reviews
License: 1499232
Jennifer Zheng Realty
12+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 344-8478
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://jenniferzhengrealty.blogspot.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JenniferZhengRealty
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community engagement through an educational real estate blog that provides vital market and tax guidance. She combines this with a strong record of 93 five-star reviews and a unique analytical background from her prior tech career.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
90+ verified reviews
License: 1887198
eXp Realty of CA inc.
11+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (760) 704-9500
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://amir.porchlightsocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/tfreshagent
Why selected: Selected for his role as a Professional Mentor within the Real Estate Community, demonstrating significant leadership. He combines this with a perfect 5-star rating across 90 reviews and over a decade of market expertise as a VA specialist.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
86+ verified reviews
License: 2159440
Compass
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (954) 296-8044
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/grayadler
Why selected: Selected for their dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. They combine this with strong performance metrics and professional expertise honed since 2015, ensuring clients receive trusted guidance.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
84+ verified reviews
License: 1926737
Kindred Realty Group
22+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 807-8464
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.forsalesd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/KindredRealEstate
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 84 five-star reviews and over two decades of expertise, Anthony Montroy stands out as a Zillow Premier Agent ranked #7 nationally for client service. His deep community involvement further demonstrates his commitment.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
69+ verified reviews
License: 1393542
Coldwell Banker Realty
11+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 229-1041
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://jeneanemason.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jeneane%20Mason
Why selected: Selected for his foundational community leadership as founder of The Mason Foundation, which provides youth scholarships. This is supported by a strong performance record of 69 five-star reviews and a decade of dedicated client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
64+ verified reviews
License: 2225502
LPT Realty, Inc
11+ years experience
Contact
Phone: 619-289-2038
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sandiegorealtyexperts.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/icardona
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance as a Top 5% industry agent with 64 five-star reviews and a disciplined, service-oriented background from her tenure in the US Navy.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
63+ verified reviews
License: 2375270
Luxome Realty
9+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-9797
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gracelee%20sandiego
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance, including 63 five-star reviews and eight years of expert service. Her deep community involvement and commitment to professional development make her a standout agent in her market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
61+ verified reviews
License: 1984838
NextHome Cedar Street Realty
25+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (916) 283-7992
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.montalvoriversteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/sherrysells8
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership and engagement, a top priority in our ranking. She combines this with over 25 years of seasoned experience and a dedicated, client-focused performance record.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
51+ verified reviews
License: 1172342
Keller Williams Realty
13+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 345-7829
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.theenriquezgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Vinnie%20Enriquez
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated mentorship within the Keller Williams network, elevating colleagues through professional development. She combines this community leadership with a strong 12-year track record and 51 five-star reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
48+ verified reviews
License: 2323664
LPT Realty, INC
17+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 717-5513
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.tranlerealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TranLeREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her leadership in mentoring emerging agents and supporting the professional community. She combines a perfect 5-star rating across 48 reviews with over 15 years of experience and a finance-focused brokerage background.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
46+ verified reviews
License: 1404616
Coldwell Banker West
22+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 602-2162
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyassaf.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AssafAvissar
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement as a long-time resident and U.S. Citizen, combined with a 5-star rating from 46 reviews and over 20 years of dedicated market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
43+ verified reviews
License: 1153326
Diane Sullivan Realty
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 990-2297
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://dianesullivanrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Diane%20Sullivan
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with 20 years of expertise and 43 five-star reviews demonstrating exceptional client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
41+ verified reviews
License: 1420173
Agentcor Realty
23+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (661) 281-5373
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/The%20Kessler%20Group
Why selected: Selected for his deep community ties and professional leadership roles. He is further distinguished by 22 years of experience and 41 five-star reviews, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
36+ verified reviews
License: 2033174
Compass
8+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 298-5866
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.angelabumgarner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AngelaBumgarnerSold
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Angela Bumgarner pairs this with a perfect 5-star rating across 36 reviews. Her expertise in market analysis and negotiation delivers proven results for clients.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
26+ verified reviews
License: 1459368
Avanti Real Estate
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 952-2216
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lyonrealestategroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Drew%20Lyon
Why selected: Selected for his leadership as owner/broker of Avanti Real Estate and his team's quantifiable performance, including a 5-star rating across 26 reviews and hundreds of sales in two years.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
26+ verified reviews
License: 1256234
Marc Aaron Realtors
31+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 298-0330
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.marcaaronrealtors.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Marc%20Aaron%20Realtors
Why selected: Selected for his 30-year expertise, perfect 5-star rating from 26 reviews, and pioneering SRES designation. His finance background and specialized service to seniors distinguish him in the market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
24+ verified reviews
License: 1936693
Real Broker
12+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (760) 522-3355
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyandrea.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrea220
Why selected: Selected for her significant community involvement via the Heroes Rebate Program, which supports military, first responders, and educators. She further demonstrates excellence with 24 five-star reviews and over 12 years of market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
24+ verified reviews
License: 1976923
Dean Aguilar Group
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 249-6754
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gilbert.viewsandiegoareahomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gilbertreynosa
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 24 reviews and consistent performance, including 49 transactions over a decade. His expertise in property management and featured market analysis further distinguishes his professional profile.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
23+ verified reviews
License: 1971944
Keller Williams
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (916) 869-2798
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/heatherbarnesrealtor
Why selected: Selected for her leadership as a local Chamber of Commerce board member and PTA volunteer. She combines this community commitment with a perfect 5.0-star rating across 200+ client reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
23+ verified reviews
License: 1380539
Sotheby's International Realty
23+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (408) 461-0924
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gregwarrickrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/gregwarrick
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement, developing subdivisions and building large country properties that shape the local area. His 20-year career features top performance, ranking in the top 4% worldwide and top 100 in Silicon Valley.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
21+ verified reviews
License: 1509289
Remax Hometown
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 435-8700
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.amysellssandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmySandersRealtor
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and nearly two decades of local market experience. She maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 21 reviews and specializes in guiding clients through complex transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
21+ verified reviews
License: 1229366
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
28+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-4400
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sdhomeowner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ann%20Amaral
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement as a 26-year local resident, combined with 27 years of experience and a perfect record of 21 five-star reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
4.8 stars
20+ verified reviews
License: 2066606
Compass
17+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (858) 224-2443
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thecollectivesandiego.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aprilguerieri
Why selected: Selected for her 16-year career and strong community involvement, April Lee Guerieri also demonstrates proven excellence with a 4.8-star rating from 20 client reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
20+ verified reviews
License: 2167825
eXp Realty
9+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 337-4779
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.carrascogroupre.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/maria8353
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership, Asa F Carrasco also delivers perfect 5-star client service across 20 reviews. His strategic Silicon Valley expertise further distinguishes his professional profile.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
20+ verified reviews
License: 2122451
Homes by Erika
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (619) 929-9165
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.homesbyerikasd.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/erikadeanda1
Why selected: Selected for her 20-year career and perfect 5-star rating across 20 reviews, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction and strong negotiation skills.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.