Foxboro Apartments and Rentals

Known by residents as the "Gem of Norfolk County," the town of Foxboro is located between the intersections of Interstates 95 and 495 just southwest of Boston and northeast of Providence, Rhode Island. Although the official spelling of the town's name is "Foxborough," many of the locals simply prefer the former spelling. According to 2010 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the city's population was more than 5,500, making Foxboro apartments for rent a great option for those who want a small-town atmosphere that is close to all of the amenities that the two large cities have to offer.

The town of Foxboro was named after the Honorable Charles James Fox, a former member of the House of Commons in England who eventually sided with the colonies during the American Revolution. After the war was over, the city officially incorporated in 1778; throughout the 19th century, Foxboro became a collection of small neighborhoods that became known for straw hat production. Bonnets were extremely popular in women's fashion during this time, so the town began to exhibit large economic growth and came to be known as the Straw Hat Capital of the World.

After the Union Straw Works building burned down in the early 20th century, the city began to rebuild as Boston started to sprawl south during the Industrial Revolution. Boston's influence eventually reached the area once the city built Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, University of Massachusetts' football team and the New England Revolution.

According to Massachusetts Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the top employers in the area are Invensys Operations Management, Team OPS LLC and Advantage Sales & Marketing. Since many NFL games and practices take place here, it is no surprise that it is a major economic force for this small town. Even if you happen to be commuting to Boston or Providence for work, there are many Foxboro rentals that are in close proximity to the interstate, making housing of all types an affordable option.

Foxboro is close to one of the most esteemed universities in the country. Every year, Harvard University attracts the country's best and brightest students to the greater Boston metropolitan area. Being one of the esteemed institutions in the Ivy League, Harvard has been an alma mater to many presidents, scientists, politicians and intellectuals since its founding in 1636. A smaller, more affordable option for Foxboro students is Wheaton College, a private university that offers four-year degrees in a wide variety of concentrations.

According to information from city-data.com, the city has seen a small amount of growth from 2000 to 2010, which may explain why its cost of living index is higher than the national average. As of 2009, the median gross rent was $1,079 per month. Nevertheless, the median household income is up more than $14,000 per year since 2000, making the community one of the more affordable neighborhoods in the Boston/Providence area.

You would be missing out on a true Foxboro tradition if you didn't go to at least one New England Patriots game. Considered one of the most storied teams in the NFL to many in the Boston area, going to Gillette Stadium on a Sunday is one of the best ways to get to know the community and have some sporty fun.

If football isn't your thing, get some outdoor adventure at F. Gilbert Hills State Forest. With more than 23 miles of trails ranging from leisurely to challenging, this park has been a mainstay of the community since the 1930s. The forest also offers mountain biking and horseback trails that stretch all the way to the Rhode Island state line. 

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