Jacksonville
Jacksonville covers more than 800 square miles, making it the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States — a distinction that shapes everything about daily life here. That sheer scale means neighborhoods feel distinct from one another: Riverside and Avondale offer historic architecture and an arts-forward atmosphere close to the St. Johns River, San Marco delivers a walkable, boutique-lined character near Downtown, and Southside sits near the University of North Florida and major commercial corridors. The economy runs deep, anchored by major employers like CSX Corporation, Fidelity Information Services, and Naval Air Station Jacksonville, giving the city a broad and stable employment base. Florida State College at Jacksonville adds an academic presence woven throughout the urban core. The rental landscape reflects this diversity, ranging from high-rise apartment communities along the Riverwalk to garden-style options in quieter residential pockets and coastal rentals near Atlantic Beach. Jacksonville consolidated its city and county governments back in 1968, a move that still defines how the city is structured and governed today. With over a million residents and Atlantic coastline on the eastern edge, Jacksonville carries the energy of a large metro with a genuinely open, unhurried quality of life.
Asheville
Welcome to Asheville, where mountain scenery meets artistic spirit in the heart of Western North Carolina. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers, this mountain city combines outdoor adventure with a thriving arts scene. Downtown features preserved Art Deco architecture housing galleries, restaurants, and breweries, while the historic Montford neighborhood showcases Victorian homes along tree-lined streets. The University of North Carolina at Asheville campus contributes to the city's energy, and the Biltmore Estate stands as a testament to American history. The Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby hiking trails provide easy access to outdoor recreation. The River Arts District features converted industrial buildings now housing working studios and galleries, while West Asheville offers an established arts scene. South Slope has developed into a brewery district, and Biltmore Village presents shopping and dining options in a historic setting. Asheville holds the distinction of being the first Green Dining Destination in the U.S. Local traditions continue through events like the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, established in 1928. With 94,589 residents, Asheville combines small-city accessibility with cultural amenities that appeal to many renters.
Savannah
The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah is located just across the Savannah River from South Carolina. Canopies of Live Oak trees draped in Spanish moss and restored historic buildings line cobblestone streets throughout Savannah. Built over Indian burial grounds and old cemeteries, Savannah has a haunted reputation consequently leading to frequent ghost tours. Boasting a pedestrian-friendly layout, Savannah is a highly walkable city. There are plenty of things to do in Savannah, all within walking distance. Should you choose to rent in Savannah, you will have the chance to attend the world’s second largest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, see the ornate Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, shop the boutiques and national retailers along Broughton Street, marvel at the many art galleries run by Savannah College of Art and Design graduates, unwind at Forsyth Park, enjoy the Savannah Film Festival, and take a 30-minute drive to Tybee Island for easy beach access. Convenient to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport as well as Interstates 16, 516, and 95, getting around from Savannah is a breeze.
