Washington
Washington, D.C. is the only American city that functions simultaneously as a seat of federal power and a fully lived-in, working metropolis. Its economy runs on government, law, lobbying, healthcare, and higher education, with major institutions like Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Howard University anchoring a consistent demand for housing across the city's 62 square miles. Neighborhoods range considerably in character: Capitol Hill's historic rowhouses sit close to the Library of Congress and Eastern Market, while NoMa and Navy Yard offer newer high-rise apartment communities near the Anacostia waterfront. Georgetown draws renters who want Federal-style architecture and a walkable street grid, while Dupont Circle and Logan Circle deliver a denser, more energetic atmosphere. The rental market reflects that range, with studio apartments and sleek high-rises downtown giving way to rowhouse conversions and mid-rise apartment communities in residential corridors. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, held each spring, draws more than a million visitors and serves as an annual reminder that the city's public spaces belong as much to residents as to anyone else. Six Metro rail lines and an extensive bus network make car-free living practical for most of the city.
Seattle
Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Seattle is home to glorious mountain views in the distance, making it one of the most scenic metropolitan areas in the nation. Skyscrapers like the Columbia Center and Space Needle grace the city’s skyline, adding to Seattle’s allure. Starbucks, Amazon, and Nordstrom have headquarters in Seattle, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the city. Interstates 5 and 405 and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport are major benefits for frequent travelers. Residents enjoy exploring the waterfront neighborhoods of Pioneer Square and the famous Pike Place Market for shopping, trendy bars, and restaurants. Seattle’s art scene is very vibrant, flanked with art galleries, theaters, and sculptures. The city is home to more than 80 music halls and 15 symphony orchestras. Bumbershoot Musical Festival, held every Labor Day Weekend, is one of the world’s largest international music and arts festivals—so don’t miss it this upcoming year! Seattle is the ideal metropolis for residents with an active lifestyle and an interest in parks, hiking, and biking. Check out the trails at Cougar Mountain Wildland Park and Tiger Mountain State Forest after you find your luxury apartment in the city.
Baltimore
Steeped in history and unique culture, Baltimore is among America’s most culturally-rich cities. Centuries spent as a major port city have contributed to a diverse mix of influences, resulting in the eclectic range of food and art found in Baltimore today. The relatively compact layout of the city makes life a bit easier for pedestrians and cyclists — it also means that, even though the city is home to over 600,000 people, it retains the feel of a much smaller community. The city’s neighborhoods display a huge degree of variety, ranging from rowhouses to high-rise apartments to charming suburban subdivisions. It’s an excellent city for sports fans, with the Orioles and the Ravens representing Baltimore in the big leagues. The arts community is quite active in Baltimore as well, largely thanks to the Maryland Institute College of Art and the huge Artscape festival that draws thousands every May. High-culture institutions such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra cater to the city’s more refined tastes, and the gorgeous waterfront offers plenty to satisfy locals and visitors alike. The close proximity to both Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia makes it easy to take a quick trip out of town and see even more of America’s signature cities.
