Temple Apartments and Rentals

Located in the heart of Central Texas, this charming town has been a favorite stopping point for people in the prairie lands for decades. A close knit community near Austin and Waco, this growing city has seen an increase in population with a 2011 estimate of more than 67,100 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With its warm spirit and togetherness, many community events and growing commercial and residential sectors, it is no wonder than many Texans are finding Temple apartments for rent to call home.

Like many other cities in Texas, Temple saw its beginnings as a railroad town. Once the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway expanded north from Galveston in the late 1800s, trains brought in prospective residents and businessmen attracted to the settlement's ideal central location. This new town was named in honor of the famous railroad's chief engineer, Bernard Moore Temple.

With its easy access to several areas around the state, Temple brought in a diverse population and economy. Many Texans seeking work in the fields of agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and medicine were drawn to the town to begin a new life. Once the city was incorporated in 1882, the city boomed and boasted two weekly newspapers, new schools, a waterworks system and even an opera house.

Today, the city has grown into one of the leading medical hubs in the Southwest thanks to its three major health centers and thriving healthcare business community.

The most popular institution in the area takes its name after the city itself. Temple College was founded in 1926 and has been a mainstay in the community ever since. This college offers two-year degrees in a variety of fields, including health professions in biotechnology, nursing, applied sciences, emergency medical services and diagnostic medicine. Since healthcare is such a heavily sought after field in the area, many medical students may be able to find work in the area by choosing their education here. Students looking for Temple rentals may find it wise to begin their search several weeks before the school year begins in order to secure their perfect place.

The workforce in Temple is as diverse as the city itself. According to the city's official website, the largest employer in the area is Wilsonart International, a high-pressure laminate company. Manufacturing is one of the leading industries in the community. Residents here make everything from disposable plastic bags, aluminum die casting and furniture. Temple is also home to McLane Company, a large wholesale food distributor to many areas throughout the Southwest states.

Even though Temple has a growing and diversifying economy, the cost of living in the area is remarkably low. According to information from city-data.com, residents here enjoy a cost of living index that is more than 14 points below the nation's average. According to 2009 data, the median gross rent in the area was less than $700 per month. With low prices and affordable cost of living, it is no surprise that the city experienced a 21.3 percent bump in population from 2000 to 2009.

Many Texans enjoy hunting and fishing, so it makes sense that locals take a lot of pride in nearby Lake Belton. Since the area is home to free public hunting, many residents love to experience the great outdoors here. The area is home to eight local parks and picnic sites, two marinas, and plenty of camping sites that will ensure fun for the whole family. Due to the temperate, dry climate in Temple, Lake Belton is an attraction that many residents can enjoy year round. 

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