The article contains an overview of the main stages of development of the city quarters in St. Petersburg. The territory of the city is conditionally divided into zones with the predominant development of urban neighborhoods. The main types of buildings located on the territory of St. Petersburg, design solutions and materials that were used in their construction during different periods of the city development are considered. The distribution of the number and density of the population in the administrative districts of the city is shown. Buildings built in the city in the pre-revolutionary period, characterized by a maximum variety of styles and architectural forms. However, in terms of population density, the central districts of the city are the most crowded. Wooden buildings, in a very limited number remaining in the city, require careful attitude and safety. Areas of low-rise buildings remain in some parts of the city, but are gradually absorbed by the city.