Belleville is quaint community in southern Illinois. Named an All-American City in 2011, Belleville residents are proud of the rich history that is still prevalent in life today. Located in St. Clair County, it is the eighth most populated city outside of the Chicago area and is the most populated city south of Springfield. Although Belleville is technically in Illinois, it is considered a part of the St. Louis metropolitan area. Boasting 22 parks spanning 200 acres throughout the city, Belleville has something to offer everyone.
The Belleville flag represents the community's history and the impact it had on education, industry and culture since the early 19th century. Designed in 1964, the flag's colors are symbolic of the city's strengths and struggles throughout its history.
Belleville apartments for rent are ideal for families or young professionals that seek a simple life outside of a major metropolis. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Belleville has remained fairly steady over the years, and today more than 44,000 residents call it home.
Belleville is one of the oldest cities in Illinois and was first settled after the Revolutionary War by veterans who received land grants. However, it wasn't until after the Civil War that the manufacturing industry began to prosper. Large local companies made equipment for the growing agricultural industry as well as gray iron castings for printing presses. Smaller companies in the area manufactured cigars and candy.
In the early 1800s, southern Illinois was home to many French settlers, which is where the city got its name, which translates to beautiful city. However, after a book was published on the area, many immigrants from Germany decided to make the treck to the small community during the 1830s. During the time, much of the architecture was reminiscent of their simple brick styling, which is still evident in older areas of the city. Germans also brought along their talents and passion for beer, and at one time Belleville was home to seven breweries.
Another major industry that aided the development of Belleville was stove casting for heating and cooking stoves. Between the late 1800s and 1940s, the city was known as the Stove Capital of the World, and the first enameled stove was invented in Belleville.
In St. Clair County, the leading industries include military, healthcare, education and manufacturing. The top employers in the county are Scott Air Force Base, Memorial Hospital - Belleville, Hospital Sister Health Systems, Southwestern Illinois College and Midcoast Aviation.
Students living in apartments in Belleville have several options for post-secondary education. Lindenwood University, Coiffure School of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, and Southwestern Illinois College are both located nearby.
The small town life in Belleville translates to the cost of living. According to Best Places, the overall cost of living is 16 points lower than the national average, food is 4 points lower and utilities are 8 points higher. Similarly, the cost of apartments in Belleville is just as affordable. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average rent is $692.
In Belleville, there are several events held annually that residents look forward to year-round. Art on the Square is one held on the third weekend in May and is a nationally recognized art show dedicated to encouraging the appreciation of visual and performing arts. Other events include Oktoberfest, the Belleville Chili Cook-off and Wine, Dine & Jazz.
Among the area's best attractions are the Belle-Clair Fairgrounds, The EDGE, Belleville Philharmonic Society, Emma Kunz House and the Lincoln Theater.
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