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.
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.
Des Moines
Des Moines combines city living with authentic Midwestern hospitality. The state capital offers varied housing choices, from downtown apartments to single-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 faculty, 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. 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.
