Edwardsville Apartments and Rentals

Anyone looking to relocate to scenic southwestern Illinois should consider making Edwardsville their new home. This historic, charming community is an ideal place to start a family or grow a business. It's no wonder Edwardsville was mentioned in Family Circle's 2010 list of 10 Best Towns for Families.

Edwardsville apartments for rent can be found throughout the city, and there is a neighborhood to suit all new residents.

In 1905, the first settlers came to Edwardsville. The town was named after Ninian Edwards, the Illinois Territory governor appointed in 1809 who would later serve as governor after Illinois became a state. The small community slowly attracted more residents, and began constructing buildings and homes. In just a few short years, Edwardsville was named the seat of county government when Madison County was established.

Through the 1850s and 1860s, Edwardsville expanded to make room for more people. Its economy during this time was diverse, and included industries such as flour mills, clay mining, brick manufacturing, and wood mills. Because Edwardsville was the seat of county government and a railroad hub, the city saw its fair share of visitors. As a result of this, tourism was also a large part of the local economy.

Edwardsville is now home to more than 24,000 residents. It has grown substantially since its early beginnings, and has become a historic city that is known for its family-friendly attitude and residential charm.

Edwardsville is home to Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, a respected four-year learning institution in the region. Since its beginnings in 1957, SIU Edwardsville has been providing residents of the St. Louis metro area with an option for higher education. The school offers pupils a variety of academic disciplines to pursue, including nursing, dentistry, education and science. Those seeking a two-year school will find that Lewis & Clark Community College has a campus in Edwardsville, conveniently located near the downtown area. At Lewis & Clark, students have the opportunity to obtain a two-year degree, or transfer their credits to a four-year university.

Madison County is home to plenty of employers that many residents work for, the largest of which is SIU Edwardsville. Other large organizations include Olin Corporation, ASF-Keystone, Southwestern Illinois Health Facilities, Global Brass & Copper and Madison County Government.

Residents looking for apartments in Edwardsville will find that its diverse population, made up of a mix of students, families, professors and business professionals, contributes to a wide range of monthly rents. Apartments typically range between $1,000 and $1,250 per month. The U.S. Census Bureau found that the median gross monthly rent in the city is $795.

Edwardsville has a lower cost of living than many other communities in Illinois, which may be a major benefit for families and individual renters alike.

Edwardsville is home to several historic attractions that delight both visitors and locals. The Wildey Theatre, which opened its doors in 1909, has entertained the public for years. It originally functioned as an opera house, and later began operating as a movie theater. It was named a local landmark in 1986, and underwent renovations to restore its original beauty. It now showcases classic movies and live performances.

Edwardsville hosts its annual ArtEast fair to display the works of artists who reside in Madison County. More than 100 artists show off their painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, and glass pieces for the public to enjoy at the fair. Visitors can browse the exhibits and learn more about the artist and their crafts at this yearly event.

Even those who don't love the outdoors will enjoy a trip to the Watershed Nature Center. Founded in the 1990s, the center was opened to restore and preserve some of southwestern Illinois' natural habitats - forest, prairie and wetland. The center allows visitors to discover these habitats and the plants and creatures that thrive in them.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Edwardsville, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.