College Station Apartments and Rentals

As its name suggests, College Station, Texas, is a college town, but unlike many similar areas, it was established solely for this purpose. College Station is home to the flagship campus of Texas A&M University, the first public institution of higher learning in the state. The university and city were developed under the Morrill Act of 1862, which provided for donation of public land to the states in order to fund higher education to train men in military tactics, agriculture and mechanic arts.

The university now has an enrollment of nearly 50,000 students and offers more than 2,800 courses in 150 fields of study, so those looking to further their education may want to check out College Station apartments for rent. Although no longer solely an agricultural and mechanical (A&M) university, the school is still known for its important research partnerships with more than 130 institutions in 52 countries. It is this reputation that has earned College Station the moniker "the heart of the Research Valley."

After the Morrill Act was passed by Congress in 1862, the State of Texas agreed to create a college under its terms - that is, funding higher education where the "leading object shall be, without excluding other scientific and classical studies, and including military tactics, to teach such branches of learning as are related to agriculture and mechanic arts."

Now, Texas A&M is one of the premier research universities in the U.S., and has been designated as a Sea Grant and a Space Grant institution, and was one of the first four universities to hold the triple distinction of Land, Sea and Space Grant designations. This means the university partners with national institutions like NASA and NOAA to contribute to important national research.

Although Texas A&M is world renowned, the town of College Station, with a population of 95,142, maintains a small town charm replete with arts, culture and entertainment. There are three major districts, each with its own community feel. Northgate is known as the heart of College Station entertainment and is near an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars frequented by students. Wolf Pen Creek is a commercial district with a mix of outdoor recreation and arts and entertainment, and Wellborn District became part of College Station in 2011. Those looking for apartments in College Station also have a number of unique neighborhoods to choose from.

Unsurprisingly, Texas A&M University is the largest employer in College Station, with about 20,000 people employed through the university system. The College Station and Bryan school districts are also major employers. Agriculture and healthcare are also large industries in the area.

Of course, many of College Station's residents have made this city their home because they are attending Texas A&M. In addition to attending a world-class institution, those who enroll at A&M join a rich, spirited population of "Aggies" who share a pride for their school's traditions and vibrant history. Undergraduates can choose from hundreds of majors, but the school's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is still one of the top rated in the nation. The university's graduate programs are also acclaimed.

Although College Station is largely made up of college students, families who live here can send their children to schools through the College Station Independent School District, which is comprised of 15 schools serving grades K-12.

Those seeking rentals in College Station will likely have a range of options, thanks to the large student population. However, they may have some competition, as the majority of upperclass students from A&M live off campus.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports the median gross rent was $889 in 2010, but rents may vary depending on size and location.

The student population of College Station makes for a thriving atmosphere rife with arts, entertainment and recreational opportunities. There are 52 developed parks, and a number of events and exhibits are held at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Residents come out each April for Chilifest, an annual fundraiser that brings country music stars and a variety of chili recipes to raise money that goes back to the community through charities.

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