Deemed the first European settlement of the United States according to the city's history, Pensacola has been around for more than 450 years. Learn more about the history of this city by discovering what the city has to offer and by looking for Pensacola apartments for rent that will make you a part of the community. The locals love the quality of history in the city of Pensacola, so whether you're looking at the only permanent replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. climbing to the top of the Pensacola Lighthouse or visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum, you'll see a variety of Pensacola's historical attractions. According to the Pensacola Downtown Improvement Board, Pensacola's population is about 52,200, and of that population, about 1,500 people call the downtown area home.

There's plenty to see and do in Pensacola, and you'll want to get started right away on finding Pensacola apartments for rent. While you're here, consider joining one of Pensacola's 12 neighborhood associations in the downtown area, or get involved in some local recreational activities. Each year Pensacola puts on a variety of festivals, including Gallery Night, the Pensacola Wine Festival, fishing tournaments and Barktoberfest. According to the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, the city averages 343 sunny days a year, and has an average temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. With 56 miles of coastline, you'll be able to enjoy recreational activities all year long while living in Pensacola apartments.

According to the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Pensacola is ranked No. 71 for the cost of doing business by Forbes. Additionally, the Pensacola region has lower-than-average tax rates and a cost of living that is 0.8 percent less than the national average and 1.5 percent greater than the Florida average. If you're looking for Pensacola apartments for rent, you'll be happy to know that rental rates are affordable here. According to AreaVibes, the median rental rates in Pensacola apartments are 16.4 percent less than the Florida average and 1.2 percent greater than the national average. According to the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, getting around the city is easy, with access to Interstate 10, the Port of Pensacola, CSX Railroad and the newly designated Pensacola International Airport. Pensacola is the only true, Southern city in Florida with close proximity to Mobile, Ala. Birmingham, Ala. and Atlanta.

The largest industries in Pensacola, according to the Downtown Improvement Board, are utilities, construction, manufacturing, wholesale trade and retail trade. If higher education leads you to look for Pensacola apartments, the city is home to the University of West Florida, which has 13 NCAA sports teams, Pensacola State College and Pensacola Christian College, which is a large provider of private education with an enrollment of nearly 5,000, according to the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce.