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.
Madison
As Wisconsin’s capital and second largest city, Madison is situated in the heart if America’s Dairyland. Aside from the city’s farming history, Madison is also known for its lakeside recreation and relaxation on Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, and Lake Waubesa. Interstates 90 and 94 make commuting as easy as possible in the area, even to major metropolises like Milwaukee, located roughly 80 miles east of town on Lake Michigan. Home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison draws in many residents for its college sports and top-notch educational opportunities. Between the Badgers basketball and hockey games at the Kohl Center to the Badgers football Games at Camp Randall Coliseum, there’s always a college game to cheer for. The university features all kinds of entertainment options, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, a major natural attraction in the city. Olbrich Botanical Gardens is another natural attraction, and Henry Vilas Zoo and Madison Children’s Museum are popular locales for families in the area. Enjoy the artistic vibe in Madison through exploring the Chazen Museum of Art or catching a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts. The Dane County Farmers Market serves up the best local meat and product, and West Towne Mall and East Towne Mall offer endless shopping opportunities.
San Marcos
Located between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is a small town with the amenities of a bustling city. There is never a dull moment with community events held throughout the year. San Marcos has several shopping locations featuring luxury and brand name stores. The San Marcos Premium Outlets towards the southern end of town is one of the largest outlet shopping centers in America with over 350 stores. This suburb is also rich with arts, culture, and history. San Marcos is filled with museums and galleries while impressive murals can be found around town. The Mermaid March, a self-guided tour showcasing 10 seven-foot mermaid statues, is a visual treat. San Marcos was nicknamed San Marvelous because of its exquisite natural beauty and abundance of parks and natural areas. Anchored by the San Marcos River in the center of town, you can find locals enjoying the water year round through tubing, scuba diving, fishing, and more. You can see dazzling waterfalls at Stokes Park or go kayaking at Rio Vista Park. San Marcos is home to Texas State University and is next to the town’s alluring downtown area. Downtown San Marcos has a thriving nightlife scene with plenty of hotspots for students and locals to enjoy. In downtown you can find delicious restaurants, cute shops, lively bars with live music, and several breweries serving up local creations. Overall, San Marcos is great for renters looking for an apartment with an urban feel in a smaller town.
