Waltham Apartments and Rentals

Waltham is known as the "Watch City," and the Massachusetts metropolis and its residents certainly make the most of their time in Middlesex County. Once an early center for the labor movement, due to the significant industrial presence in the area, it became a bustling manufacturing power and later grew to hold a number of research and higher education institutions.

Home to 60,241 residents, according to the 2010 Census, the city left behind its industrial past to become a modern metropolis with quick and easy access to downtown Boston. A diverse population, working-class roots and many cultural celebrations give the metropolis its unique flavor, and people looking for Waltham apartments for rent will have a plethora of choices once they begin their search.

Like many Massachusetts cities, Waltham had its roots as part of another larger town for decades after settlers came to the area. After several redistricting attempts were undertaken by the surrounding governments, Waltham was incorporated as a town in 1738. After this point, the location began to blossom because of its position along the Charles River and proximity to Boston.

The city played a significant role in the Revolutionary War, with more than 200 residents taking up arms against the Redcoats and George Washington being escorted through Waltham to safety in 1789. Following the war, there were several paper and textile mills built along the Charles River, and the area became a commerce center over the next 100 years.

Like many towns and cities in America, the decline of factory production impacted the economic health of the residents of the Watch City, but its resurgence came with the transition to modern industry. Tech companies and other businesses were brought to the area, and people looking for Waltham apartments were given more employment opportunities.

Two major universities, Brandeis and Bentley, employ a number of the residents of Waltham, and the city has developed a reputation as an academic center because of the presence of these two institutions. Although other employment opportunities exist, with Tufts Associated Health Plans and Raytheon having offices in the city, much of the development of the area has been tied to higher education.

Bentley University has emerged as one of the nation's top business schools, and Forbes ranked it as no. 11 when it comes to "Colleges that Will Make You Rich." The school's MBA program is famous in the area and its graduates flock to businesses in Boston and New York after graduating. Brandeis University is held in the same esteem by many experts in the academic field, U.S. News and World Report named it no. 31 on its list of top national universities, and the more liberal-arts minded tend to go here.

The many students living in the area affect the price of many Waltham rentals, and those with families may want to move away from the college-influenced environment.

Because of the significant student presence in the area, people looking for apartments in Waltham may need to be extensive in their search for a residence that meets their needs regarding cost and location.

According to the 2010 Census, the median gross rent for the city was $1,270 a month, depending on a number of factors.

The industrial past of Waltham is celebrated each year by throngs of residents, as the Watch City Festival brings an estimated 17,000 visitors to come shop, enjoy music and take in historical exhibits and demonstrations during the second week in May.

For those who want to eat a nice meal, grab an adult beverage and take in the views of the river that runs through the city, Moody St. is a Waltham destination that helps to satisfy the younger crowd.

If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Waltham, Mass., search for rental properties at Rent.com®.