Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most well-known cities in the country, recognized for its Southern charm and modern sophistication. This city is full of surprises – from towering skyscrapers to historic, brick-lined sidewalks, Atlanta has it all. Atlanta’s economy is remarkably diverse. It’s a major transportation hub and is home to the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International. This booming metropolis is the third most popular filming destination with several major movie studios, and is a communications hub with CNN, Cox Enterprises, the Weather Channel, and Turner Broadcasting. The city of Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the nation as well. Fortune 500 companies thrive here, with headquarters including Delta Airlines, UPS, Coca-Cola, and Home Depot. Universities that call Atlanta home include Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Clark Atlanta University, and Emory University. There’s an idyllic blend in Atlanta between eclectic college towns, bustling urban streets, serene suburban neighborhoods, iconic attractions, historic architecture, and a sense of Southern hospitality. Atlanta features an array of neighborhoods, each with their own unique character, and an assortment of apartments, condos, houses, and townhomes, ranging from affordable to upscale. After you find your perfect rental in the city, check out SkyView Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia State Capitol Building, Piedmont Park, the Georgia Aquarium, Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, and so much more. Atlanta’s attractions aren’t the only perk of living in the city – this metropolis is known for its bustling community events like Music Midtown and the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival. Top apartment features searched for in Atlanta, GA includes rentals with EV Charging stations, in-unit washers and dryers, sunrooms, and rent specials.
Columbus
Columbus, Georgia combines Southern hospitality with outdoor adventure along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. As Georgia's second-largest city, Columbus offers diverse housing options, from Victorian-era homes in the Heritage District to contemporary apartments in MidTown. Current rental rates average $1,038 for a one-bedroom apartment. Notable neighborhoods include Green Island Hills and MidTown, where restored historic homes sit alongside newer residential communities. The 15-mile Riverwalk serves as the centerpiece of outdoor recreation, featuring the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Downtown Columbus thrives with cultural attractions, including the Columbus Museum, National Infantry Museum, and the historic Springer Opera House - designated as Georgia's State Theater. Columbus State University's RiverPark campus adds to the downtown energy with its performing arts programs. The Uptown district continues to grow with local shops and restaurants, while the proximity to Fort Moore makes the city a convenient choice for military personnel. Recent rental data shows steady market growth, with apartment rates increasing between 1.3% to 3% across different unit sizes. Whether you're drawn to the outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or historic architecture, Columbus maintains its authentic Southern character while embracing growth and development.
Knoxville
The University of Tennessee is undeniably the focal point of Knoxville, and the school’s orange and white motif is everywhere. Largely thanks to the big student population, Knoxville’s nightlife scene is among the best in the region. Traditionally, the bars and restaurants along Cumberland Avenue - or "The Strip" – have been the preferred night spots in town; while The Strip remains popular, redevelopment in downtown and in the Old City has spread out the after-hours revelry. With so many students in the mix, the local rental market is packed with affordable options as well, so it’s easy to find a budget-friendly house, condo, or apartment just about anywhere in town. But the city is much more than your typical college town, offering a charming environment surrounded by gorgeous hills and forests, with a generous helping of Southern personality. If boating is your thing, join famous Tennessee Vol Navy as they cruise the river behind Neyland Stadium on game days. A testament to Knoxville’s rich cultural diversity, the city hosts dozens of festivals and community celebrations throughout the year.
