Columbus
Nestled in the heart of Central Ohio, Columbus is the state’s capital and largest city. With access to Rickenbacker International Airport and several interstate highways, commuting and traveling is easy for Columbus residents. This bustling city houses Ohio State University, bringing a youthful energy and fierce love for college football to town. Creativity and innovation permeate Columbus, lending to a host of artistic amenities and top-notch eateries. An affordable Columbus apartment or house rental means you’ll have the opportunity to access a multitude of incredible amenities. Gallery hop in Short North Arts District, or maybe order baked goods and a coffee at Fox in the Snow Café. Take a riverside stroll at Bicentennial Park and Scioto Mile Park, or check out the latest exhibit at the Center of Science and Industry. Enjoy a play at the Ohio Theater, and learn more about wildlife at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. German Village offers unique shops and picturesque historic architecture. For your final stop, cheer on the Ohio State Buckeyes for a game at Ohio Stadium. There’s something for everyone in this entertaining, affordable, and vibrant capital city.
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.
Des Moines
Des Moines combines city living with authentic Midwestern hospitality. The state capital offers varied housing choices, from downtown apartments averaging $996 for a one-bedroom to family homes in established neighborhoods. The East Village neighborhood features local boutiques and restaurants in beautifully restored historic buildings. The area around Drake University draws students and professionals alike, while Windsor Heights provides peaceful residential streets just minutes from downtown's climate-controlled skywalk system. The Des Moines Art Center, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and Science Center of Iowa anchor the city's arts and culture scene. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy 76 city parks and three public golf courses, including the popular Gray's Lake Park with its scenic 1.9-mile lakeside trail. Current rent trends show modest annual increases of 0.6%, keeping Des Moines housing costs lower than comparable cities. The insurance industry drives the local economy, with major employers Principal Financial Group and Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield maintaining significant operations downtown. Throughout the year, residents gather at signature events like the Iowa State Fair and the Downtown Farmers' Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Midwest.
