Rockdale, TX

4 Apartments for Rent

Two notable and rather odd facts about the town of Rockdale: One, the third wife of Scientology founder, L. Ron Hubbard, named Mary Sue Whipp Hubbard, was a native of Rockdale. The second, totally unrelated, fact is that the city was actually named for a nearby piece of 12-foot high, 20-feet in circumference, chunk of rock.

Rockdale has a population of 5,655 and is located within Milam County, Texas, only 60 miles northeast of the state capital, Austin. Incorporated in 1878, Rockdale was developed as a shipping and supply point for farmers growing cotton, vegetables, grains, wool, fruits, hides and livestock. The aluminum company, ALCOA, also set up shop in Rockdale back in the early 1950s. They were a major employer in Rockdale for the better part of 55 years. In 2008, the plant was partially closed and greatly reduced its smelting operations in the city. Modern day Rockdale is a city filled with both blue and white collar jobs and opportunity for anyone motivated enough to realize their dreams!

Moving to Rockdale

When you move to Rockdale, you first want to consider whether you prefer the country or the city life. There are two basic places to live in Rockdale: the country and the city. If you are partial to the city life, finding property on your own isn't too difficult, especially if you are going to lease from an apartment complex in the downtown area. They are friendly and very helpful to newcomers. However, if the countryside is more your speed or just your preference, then it is advisable to find a local real estate agent or broker to help located the places to rent that you would be interested in seeing. They will help narrow down the possibilities once you give them a list of your wants and desires you have for your new home. Living in Texas will also teach you that doing anything outside during the months of June through August is going to be hot... seriously hot. So if you are able to, you might want to plan your move during any other season besides summertime!

Rockdale's Neighborhoods

Rockdale has two basic neighborhoods. One is considered rural while the other is located within the center of town. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so we have provided some details on each below.

Minerva/ Davilla: If you are looking for rental property in Rockdale and prefer to enjoy a bright canopy of stars at night, unimpeded by the lights of the city, then this is a neighborhood you might want to consider. Located 360 degrees around the center of the city, rental property in the Minerva/ Davilla area of town features many small- to medium-sized properties. These usually range from a studio on up to a 4 bedroom apartment or home. The San Gabriel River is just a few minutes drive west and is a favorite place to cool off or go fishing. Hiking is also a popular pastime, and the San Gabriel River has excellent trails for hiking as well as for those who enjoy a challenging bike ride!

City Center: Hwy 79 runs east to west through the center of town, making this a perfect location for anyone who might need to commute in either direction. Are you dreaming of places to live in Rockdale that are within walking distance of your work? Do you love a historic downtown where everyone walks when they want to have a night out? If this sounds like a sweet spot, then you will be right at home in the City Center. Generally speaking, you will also find a better deal price-wise in this area, as opposed to the outlying countryside. Not only are there slightly better options, but the city center is very pedestrian friendly. If you choose the countryside, it is practically unthinkable to go without a car! However, if you are without your own wheels, the city center is your best friend because there is no public transit system within Rockdale. You have been warned!

Living in Rockdale

For a night out that you won't soon forget, head over to Cliff Tavern on N. Main St. in the historic downtown area of Rockdale. The staff is friendly and swift with the service and the music might just tease you off of your seat to go dance with your partner! When you've had your fill of Cliff Tavern, walk a few blocks down to Ricky's on N. Wilcox St. and enjoy a nightcap before heading home for the evening. Both bars are a popular one-two punch for a night out with friends or that special someone, and close enough to hoof it if you live in the area. Cab service is prompt and always reliable, so there is never a need to worry or take a chance with an inebriated drive home. Residents of Rockdale look out for one another and welcome the same hospitality in return, so what are you waiting for? Come carve out your little slice of heaven and look for a rental property in the middle of Texas!