Bloomfield
Bloomfield is a quiet suburb on the north side of Hartford, just a few minutes removed from Interstate 91. The close proximity to the state capital gives residents all the benefits of the larger city with a comfortable distance from the faster-paced lifestyle. Nature preserves make up much of the town’s western border, primarily Penwood and Talcott Mountain State Parks, making it easy for residents to find outdoor adventure from just about anywhere in town. Golf is also quite popular in Bloomfield, with three world-class golf courses around town. The University of Hartford lies just outside the town limits to the south, making Bloomfield a highly convenient location for students to find apartments.
Aurora
Finding a place to live in Aurora is no ordinary experience for newcomers. A mix of well-preserved history and community-wide creativity makes this city feel smaller than it actually is. Only Chicago has more residents, but Aurora's convenient and picturesque spot along Fox River has turned it into a transportation, entertainment, and shopping hub for urban commuters, suburban transplants, and lifelong locals alike. Downtown streets are filled with masterpieces by everyone from Frank Lloyd Wright to George Grant Elmslie, who built more commercial buildings here than anywhere in the world. There are even dozens of still-standing homes built from Sears Catalog kits in the early 20th century. Among all this architectural history are rooms for rent, apartment complexes designed to blend in with the historic styles, and brand new units that keep springing up in response to growing business opportunities. The Fox River divides Aurora into the East Side and the West Side, and the County Line creates a third area, Fox Valley, which borders neighboring Naperville. These three regions contain several neighborhoods that played an important role in modern American architecture, as well as brand new residential and commercial areas that are expanding opportunities for renters and job-seekers alike. The Boulevard District is wedged just northwest of the river, between Galena Boulevard and Prairie Street. Home to both Aurora University and Abraham Lincoln Park, and stopping just north of Aurora Country Club, this district is one of the most family-friendly residential parts of town. But even if you don't have kids, you'll enjoy the youthful vibe that comes with proximity to a college campus. The Fox River is the focal point of Aurora culture and recreation, and right in the middle of it, Stolp Island holds three of the city's most popular attractions: Paramount Theatre, Hollywood Casino, and Leland Tower. Built in 1931, the Paramount Theatre is one Aurora's oldest landmarks, but it's also a working performance venue that still hosts big-name music acts, stand-up comedians, and the Broadway Series of critically acclaimed musicals. Hollywood Casino, meanwhile, offers a Vegas-style buffet, the award-winning Fairbanks Steakhouse, and exciting poker tournaments. Just east of Stolp Island, on the other side of the river, RiverEdge Park is one of the Greater Chicago Area's most attractive outdoor entertainment options. Right next to the Metra Station for easy city access, the venue's ten-acre pavilion and 30-acre park fill up each year for seasonal events like the Fox Valley Irish Festival, the summer concert series Downtown Alive!, and the blues festival Blues on the Fox. Other events and attractions include the Aurora ArtWalk, the SciTech Interactive Science Museum and outdoor science park near the Aurora Public Library, The Sunken Garden, and the Phillips Park Zoo.
Milwaukee
Known as the Brew City, Milwaukee is home to some of the nation’s best breweries, a trend that’s spreading nationwide. Along with an abundance of craft beer, you’ll find picturesque views of Lake Michigan, a thriving local economy, and a world-class collection of museums and galleries. Throughout the summer months, the community celebrates its diverse heritage through a series of festivals connected to the city’s differing cultures. These fun-filled festivals include the African World Fest, German Fest, Irish Fest, Indian Summer Festival, and Feta Italiana. The annual Summerfest is the largest music festival in the world, and has been since 1999, featuring more than 800 acts over the course of 11 days. With a low cost of living and a wide range of affordable apartments, condos, and houses for rent, living in Milwaukee is within reach for any anyone.
