Quick Answer
The fastest and most recommended way to get from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Temple University is by taking the SEPTA Regional Rail Airport Line to Suburban Station (30th Street), then transferring to the Broad Street Line (BSL) subway northbound to the Cecil B. Moore or Temple University stations. The total journey takes 45-60 minutes and costs just $6.75 - $8.00 (one-way, including transfer). For a direct, door-to-door option, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) takes 25-40 minutes but costs $35-$55.
By SEPTA Regional Rail & Subway: The Best Balanced Option
This is the most efficient public transit route for most travelers, offering a predictable schedule, protection from traffic, and a low cost. The Airport Line is a dedicated rail service connecting all PHL terminals to Center City Philadelphia.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the Station: Follow signs for "Trains to City" or "Regional Rail" inside any airport terminal. Take the free Airport Line shuttle (it runs 24/7) to the Airport Regional Rail Station. The shuttle stop is outside baggage claim at each terminal.
- Purchase a Ticket: Buy a One-Day or One-Trip Independence Pass from the SEPTA kiosk at the station. This pass covers both the Regional Rail ride and your subsequent subway/bus transfer. A One-Trip Pass costs $6.75 (as of 2024). You can also use the SEPTA Key card (tap fare: $6.00 for the rail leg + $2.00 for the transfer = $8.00 total).
- Board the Train: Take any westbound Airport Line train. All trains stop at:
- Eastwick
- University City (near University of Pennsylvania)
- 30th Street Station (Amtrak's major hub)
- Suburban Station (Your stop to transfer to Temple)
- Jefferson Station
- Transfer to the Broad Street Line (BSL): Exit the train at Suburban Station and follow signs for the Broad Street Line (Orange Line). You will need to walk underground for about 5-10 minutes.
- Take the Subway North to Temple: Board any Northbound Broad Street Line train (towards Fern Rock). Get off at either:
- Cecil B. Moore Station: Closest to the southern edge of campus and student residences.
- Temple University Station: Located directly under the heart of campus at Polett Walk.
Key Advantages & Considerations:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 45-75 minutes (depending on wait times) |
| Total Cost (One-Way) | $6.75 (Independence Pass) or $8.00 (SEPTA Key) |
| Frequency | Every 30 minutes (roughly), 24/7 service (less frequent late night) |
| Luggage | Ample space on Regional Rail; manageable on subway if not during peak rush hour. |
| Best For | Budget-conscious travelers, solo travelers, those arriving during daylight/evening hours. |
| Potential Challenge | The transfer at Suburban Station involves walking and stairs/escalators. Not ideal with massive amounts of luggage late at night. |
By SEPTA Bus: The Most Economical Choice
If your budget is extremely tight and you have light luggage, the SEPTA Bus Route 37 offers the absolute lowest cash fare. However, it is significantly slower due to city traffic.
Route Details:
- Bus Route: SEPTA 37 (South Philadelphia to 5th/Godfrey via 20th-Johnston).
- Where to Board: At the bus stops located on the commercial roadway (Arrivals Road) outside each terminal at PHL.
- Destination: You can take this bus north to the vicinity of City Hall (15th & Market Sts). From there, you must walk a few blocks (~10 mins) to the City Hall BSL station and take the northbound subway to Temple (as in the train guide above). Alternatively, the bus continues north on 20th St, where you can transfer to other bus routes heading toward North Philly, but the subway transfer is more direct.
| Factor | Bus Route 37 Details |
|---|---|
| Fare | $2.50 (exact cash or SEPTA Key) + $2.00 for subway transfer = $4.50 total. |
| Travel Time (Airport to Center City) | 45 - 70+ minutes (highly traffic-dependent). |
| Overall Trip to Temple | 75 - 100+ minutes. |
| Service Hours | Approximately 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM daily. |
| Major Drawback | Unpredictable travel time, multiple stops, less comfortable with luggage. |
| Who Should Use It? | Ultra-budget travelers, those with a single backpack, and individuals very familiar with Philly's bus system. |
Cost, Time & Option Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all your transportation options from Philadelphia Airport to Temple University's main campus.
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Estimated Total Time | Key Features & Best For | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEPTA Regional Rail + BSL Subway | $6.75 - $8.00 | 45 - 75 min | Fast, reliable, avoids traffic, requires one transfer. Best for most solo travelers & small groups. | â BEST OVERALL |
| SEPTA Bus 37 + BSL Subway | $4.50 | 75 - 100+ min | Cheapest fare, highly traffic-dependent, many stops. Best for ultra-tight budgets with light luggage. | â BEST FOR BUDGET |
| Taxi (Metered) | $35 - $55+ | 25 - 40 min | Door-to-door, available curbside 24/7, price varies with traffic/tolls. Good for late arrivals & groups. | ð¡ MOST CONVENIENT |
| UberX / Lyft | $30 - $50+ | 25 - 40 min | Door-to-door, app-based, surge pricing applies. Good for groups splitting fare and modern users. | ð¡ MOST CONVENIENT |
| Private Car Service | $65 - $100+ | 25 - 40 min | Pre-booked, professional, fixed price for luxury vans/sedans. Best for corporate travel or special occasions. | ð¡ PREMIUM OPTION |
Traveler Tips & Key Insights
Essential Advice for a Smooth Trip:
- Download Essential Apps: Before you land, download the SEPTA app for schedules and to buy mobile tickets. Have the Uber/Lyft apps ready as a backup.
- Navigating the Transfer at Suburban Station: The walk from the Regional Rail platforms to the Broad Street Line can be confusing. Look for orange "Broad Street Line" signs and don't be afraid to ask SEPTA staff or other commuters for directionsâit's a common question.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have large suitcases, avoid the subway during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM). The Regional Rail has dedicated luggage areas. For an even easier time, consider using a luggage cart from the baggage claim to the train shuttle.
- Late-Night Arrivals (After 11 PM): The Airport Line train runs hourly late at night. Check the schedule in advance. If your flight is delayed and you'll arrive after the last train (around 12:30 AM), a taxi or rideshare is your only public transit alternative until service resumes around 5 AM.
- Safety on Campus: When arriving at the Cecil B. Moore or Temple University subway stations late at night, use well-lit paths and be aware of your surroundings. Temple University has a campus safety shuttle and walking escort serviceâcheck their website for details.
- Payment Simplification: If you'll be in Philly for more than a day, invest in a SEPTA Key card. You can load it with a "Travel Wallet" for pay-as-you-go fares or weekly passes. It makes all transit (rail, bus, subway, trolley) a simple tap-and-go process.
FAQs: Getting from PHL Airport to Temple University
Is there a direct train from Philadelphia Airport to Temple University?
No, there is no single direct train. You must take the SEPTA Airport Line (Regional Rail) from the airport to Suburban Station (or Jefferson Station), then transfer to the northbound Broad Street Line (BSL) subway to reach the Temple University or Cecil B. Moore stations. The process is seamless and well-signed.
What is the cheapest way to get from PHL to Temple University?
The absolute cheapest way is the SEPTA Bus Route 37 to Center City ($2.50) combined with a transfer to the Broad Street Line subway ($2.00), for a total of $4.50. However, the SEPTA Regional Rail + Subway combo for $6.75-$8.00 offers much better speed and reliability for only a few dollars more, making it the best value for money.
How long does the SEPTA train + subway journey take?
The total travel time is typically between 45 to 75 minutes. This includes:
- ~5-10 min wait for the Airport Line train.
- ~25 min train ride to Suburban Station.
- ~5-10 min walk to transfer to the BSL subway.
- ~5-10 min wait for the subway.
- ~8-12 min subway ride to Temple.
Is it safe to take public transit from the airport to Temple at night?
The Airport Line train and Broad Street Line are generally safe, as they are used by many airport employees, students, and commuters at all hours. For maximum safety late at night (after 10 PM):
- Stay in well-lit train cars, usually near the conductor.
- Be aware of your surroundings during the station transfer.
- Have your phone charged and rideshare apps ready as a backup.
- Consider taking a taxi or rideshare if you feel uncomfortable or are traveling completely alone very late.
Where do I buy tickets for the SEPTA train at the airport?
Tickets are purchased at vending machines inside the Airport Regional Rail Station. You cannot buy them on the train. To reach this station, take the free "Airport Line" shuttle bus from outside any terminal. At the vending machine, select an "Independence Pass" for your needed duration (One-Trip or One-Day). You can pay with credit/debit card or cash.
Can I use my Amtrak rail pass for the SEPTA train from PHL?
No. SEPTA Regional Rail is a separate, local commuter system. Amtrak passes (like the USA Rail Pass) are not valid on SEPTA trains. You must purchase a separate SEPTA ticket or use a SEPTA Key card.
I'm arriving very late/early. What are my options?
- Very Late (After last train ~12:30 AM): Your only public transit option is the Night Bus service, which is infrequent and slow. A taxi or rideshare is strongly recommended for safety, speed, and convenience.
- Very Early (Before first train ~5:00 AM): Similar situation. Taxis are available 24/7 at the taxi stands. Rideshares are also available but may have longer wait times or surge pricing in the very early morning.
Is it better to take an Uber or a taxi from PHL?
It depends on the situation:
| Taxi | Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) |
|---|---|
| Pros: Immediately available at a dedicated stand; fixed meter rate (not surge pricing); driver knows the city well. | Pros: Often slightly cheaper under normal demand; you see price and driver info upfront; payment is automatic. |
| Cons: Price can be higher if there's traffic/tolls; payment required at end (cash/card). | Cons: Price can surge dramatically during high demand; you must walk to a specific pickup zone and wait. |