Home to the second-oldest philharmonic orchestra in the nation, Belleville, Illinois sits just 20 minutes east of downtown St. Louis, offering rental houses rich in historic charm. As the largest city in Southern Illinois, Belleville maintains its small-town character while providing metropolitan access via three MetroLink light rail stations. The city's location near Scott Air Force Base makes it a practical choice for military personnel and defense contractors, with established neighborhoods like Signal Hill and Old Belleville Historic District offering diverse housing options.

Rental houses in this 23-square-mile city range from charming brick cottages to spacious single-family homes, with three-bedroom properties averaging around $1,270 monthly. The West End neighborhood features tree-lined streets and sits close to the dining destinations along West Main Street, while the Belleville Historic District showcases architecturally distinctive rental properties near the downtown business district. Commuters benefit from easy access to Interstates 64 and 255, providing direct routes to St. Louis and surrounding employment centers. The city's extensive trail system connects residential areas to Southwestern Illinois College and Scott Air Force Base, enhancing the community's walkability and outdoor recreation options.