Appleton sits along the Fox River, home to the nation's first hydroelectric central station that powered the historic Hearthstone House in 1882. This northeastern Wisconsin city of over 75,000 residents balances small-town charm with metropolitan amenities, including the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and the Mile of Music festival that attracts artists from across the country each summer.

Rental options in Appleton range from boutique apartment communities to well-maintained townhomes, with average monthly rents around $979 for one-bedroom units and $1,165 for two-bedroom homes. The College Avenue Historic District offers rentals near dining and shopping, while neighborhoods near Lawrence University provide a refined atmosphere with tree-lined streets. East-side communities offer newer rental properties with easy access to shopping at Fox River Mall, and north Appleton rentals near the Telulah neighborhood provide proximity to parks and green spaces.

Appleton offers a reasonable commute time, with most residents reaching work in under 20 minutes. Major employers include healthcare systems like St. Elizabeth Hospital and ThedaCare, as well as Thrivent Financial and Miller Electric. The Appleton International Airport connects residents to major hubs, while Interstate 41 provides quick access to Green Bay and Milwaukee. With four distinct seasons, renters enjoy outdoor activities at the city's 28 parks, cultural events downtown, and a growing restaurant scene featuring local breweries and farm-to-table dining options.