Germantown Apartments and Rentals

As an important community in the Washington, D.C., metro area, Germantown is an ideal place for D.C. commuters as well as those looking for a home in a charming Maryland city. Because the city has experienced rapid growth, it has become a desirable community filled with lots to do.

Those looking for Germantown apartments for rent may find some competition for the perfect property because the city continues to attract so many new residents.

Germantown is located on what used to be Native American hunting grounds. Thousands of years ago, tribes would find buffalo here. Upon the arrival of Europeans in the 1600s, settlers began to form small communities in the area. Germantown's first known settlers were the Waters brothers. They created a farming town, where locals grew tobacco, wheat, corn and flax.

The first important road in the area gave the city its name. When a street was built to connect two local churches, several German settlers opened stores alongside it. Even though most residents traced their heritage back to Scotland and England, the name Germantown stuck because of the thick accents with which the German storekeepers spoke.

During the Civil War, the community was divided by differing opinions on slavery. While many descendents of German settlers sided with the Union army, families who had come from England favored the Confederate forces. This event tore the community apart, but it managed to unite after the war when the railroad came to town. This brought new residents and businesses to Germantown and helped to build its prosperous future.

Germantown is now home to more than 86,000 residents. While some love that it is the perfect commuter town to get to Washington, D.C., others find its historic charm and appeal too great to resist.

The county's junior college, Montgomery College, has a campus located in Germantown. Students can study a variety of subjects, and earn a certificate, associate degree or transfer to a four-year university after taking courses at Montgomery. Those who don't mind a commute also have the option of attending a college in Washington, D.C. American University, a private liberal arts institution known for its political activism - offers students an opportunity to earn an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degree. Another option is George Washington University, a historic school that offers a huge range of subjects for pupils to study.

Because of Germantown's convenient location, it is easy for residents to find work within the community or nearby. Many locals find employment within Montgomery County. Organizations that hire the most county residents include the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Montgomery County Public Schools and the U.S. Department of Defense. Other residents take advantage of Germantown's proximity to Washington, D.C., and commute to the city for work.

Those moving to the city will find that Germantown apartments typically rent for approximately $1,000 to $2,000 per month. According to data from the U.S. Census, the median gross monthly rent is $1,472.

To cut down on the cost of living in Germantown, residents can take advantage of Montgomery County's local bus service.

Residents who want to get involved in Germantown's culture can head to the Blackrock Center for the Arts. The center regularly hosts events, concerts and performances, and it even features art exhibits. Residents also have the opportunity to take classes and discover new creative outlets at this community center.

Celebrate Germantown's ethnic history at the annual Oktoberfest. For decades, residents have been enjoying beer, wine tastings, live entertainment and food at this event. A family-friendly atmosphere ensures that even younger guests will have a great time at Oktoberfest.

Rent.com® can help you get settled in a Germantown apartment. Look through our rental listings and find the perfect home for your needs.