: Everything You Need to Know
Looking to rent in North Austin? Here’s what you need to know:
- Average rent prices (as of November 2024):
- Studio: $1,157
- 1 Bedroom: $1,360
- 2 Bedrooms: $1,757
- 3 Bedrooms: $2,219
- Popular areas: The Domain (urban feel) and Tech Ridge (suburban, near tech companies)
- Best time to rent: December to March for lower prices, May to September for more options
- Application needs: ID, proof of income, employment verification, rental history, SSN
- Upfront costs: Application fee ($30-$100), admin fee ($50-$350), security deposit (usually one month’s rent), first month’s rent
- Pet policies: Most places allow pets with fees, some have breed/weight restrictions
- Safety: Rosedale and Hyde Park are among the safest neighborhoods
Key tips:
- Start your search 60-90 days before moving
- Use free apartment locating services like Taco Street Locating
- Be ready to decide quickly – good places go fast
- Read lease terms carefully before signing
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North Austin Rental Market Overview
North Austin’s rental scene is buzzing with options. Let’s break down where to live, what you’ll pay, and when to snag the best deals.
Where to Rent
Two spots stand out in North Austin: The Domain and Tech Ridge.
The Domain? It’s like a mini-downtown. You can walk everywhere, shop ’til you drop, and grab a bite without ever hopping in your car. It’s a magnet for young professionals in their late 20s and early 30s.
Tech Ridge is different. It’s closer to big tech companies like Dell. You’ll need a car, but you’ll get newer apartments with all the bells and whistles. As one Redditor put it:
“If you like the Tech Ridge area tho, closer to I-35 there are new apts all really nice: The Upland, The Post, & The Presidium- with move in incentives.”
So, what’s your style? Urban buzz or suburban chill?
What You’ll Pay
Rent in North Austin? It’s all over the map. Here’s what you’re looking at as of July 2024:
| Apartment Type | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,003 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,087 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,533 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,523 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,535 |
Studio prices have shot up 48% in just a month. But 2-bedrooms? Only a 3% bump.
The Domain is pricier, averaging $1,761 a month. But that’s still way less than downtown’s $2,699. Not bad for city living on a budget.
When to Rent
Timing is everything in the rental game. Here’s the scoop:
1. Winter Deals
Prices dip from December to March. You could save about $30 a month just by moving in winter.
2. Summer Scramble
Everyone and their dog moves in summer. More options, but higher prices.
3. The Yearly Dance
Rents start climbing in April, peak in October, then cool off for winter.
Want to save cash? Aim for December to March. Want more choices? May to September is your sweet spot.
Here’s a fun fact: As of December 2023, median rent for a studio to two-bedroom in Austin was $1,546. That’s down 5.4% from the year before. Good news for your wallet!
Ready to hunt? Start looking 60 days before you want to move. That gives you time to shop around and deal with paperwork.
North Austin’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re after city lights or suburban nights, there’s a spot with your name on it. Happy hunting!
How to Pick Your Neighborhood
Finding the right spot in North Austin can make or break your renting experience. Let’s look at what you need to know.
The Domain vs Tech Ridge
The Domain and Tech Ridge are two popular areas in North Austin. Each has its own vibe.
The Domain? It’s like a mini-city. You can walk to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Young professionals in their late 20s and early 30s love it here. It feels urban, but without downtown prices. As of July 2024, you’ll pay about $1,761 per month on average.
Tech Ridge is more suburban. It’s popular with tech workers because it’s close to big companies like Dell. You’ll need a car, but you’ll get newer apartments with lots of features. One Reddit user said:
“If you like the Tech Ridge area tho, closer to I-35 there are new apts all really nice: The Upland, The Post, & The Presidium- with move in incentives.”
Here’s a quick look at both:
| Feature | The Domain | Tech Ridge |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Urban, walkable | Suburban, need a car |
| Rent | $1,761/month average | Usually lower |
| Good for | Young professionals, city lovers | Tech workers, families |
| Perks | High-end shops, restaurants | New apartments, near tech companies |
Getting Around North Austin
Your commute can make a big difference in your day. Here’s what to know:
Traffic is worst from 7-8 AM and 4-5 PM on weekdays. A 20-minute trip might take 30-35 minutes then.
CapMetro has buses and trains. It’s great if you’re near a stop and don’t want to deal with parking.
About 66% of Austin commuters drive alone. If you do too, try to avoid rush hour.
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to check traffic and find better routes.
Over 42% of Austin workers commute less than 10 miles. Keep this in mind when choosing where to live.
Neighborhood Safety
Safety matters when picking a neighborhood. Here’s what to know about North Austin:
Austin’s crime rate is only 5% safer than the U.S. average. You have a 1 in 24 chance of being a victim of property or violent crime.
Rosedale stands out for safety. It’s 18% safer than Austin overall and tops Niche’s list for best family neighborhoods.
Hyde Park is also safe, with crime stats 9% lower than Austin’s average and 54% lower than other Texas cities.
If you’re okay with living further out, Round Rock is 22% safer than the U.S. average.
But safety isn’t just numbers. When checking out neighborhoods, look for:
- Well-kept properties
- Good lighting on streets
- Active neighbors
- Police around
Usually, the further you go from downtown, the less crime there is. But don’t give up convenience for safety – find a balance.
Picking your North Austin neighborhood is about what matters most to you. Whether you want the buzz of The Domain, the tech focus of Tech Ridge, or the family feel of Rosedale, there’s a place for you. Take your time, do your homework, and explore. Your perfect North Austin home is out there!
Rental Applications and Costs
Applying for a rental in North Austin? Here’s what you need to know about the process and costs.
What You Need to Apply
When you’re ready to snag that perfect North Austin apartment, you’ll need:
- Government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Proof of income (pay stubs or bank statements)
- Employment verification letter
- Rental history
- Social Security number
- References
Here’s the kicker: Your monthly income should be at least 3 times the rent. So, for a $1,500/month pad, you’re looking at a minimum $4,500 monthly income.
Quick tip: Keep digital copies of everything. It’ll make life easier if you’re applying to multiple places.
Upfront Costs and Fees
Renting in North Austin isn’t cheap. Here’s what you’re in for:
- Application Fee: $30-$100 per adult
- Administrative Fee: $50-$350 (most fall between $100-$200)
- Security Deposit: Usually a few hundred dollars
- Pet Deposit/Fee: Extra if you’ve got furry roommates
Let’s break it down for a $1,500/month apartment:
| Cost Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Administrative Fee | $150 |
| Security Deposit | $250 |
| Total Upfront Costs | $450 |
But don’t panic just yet. Some properties are getting creative with their offers. Ross Quade, a local apartment locator, says:
“I’ve helped clients score unadvertised specials like 1 month free rent AND waived administrative fees.”
Plus, a new Texas law (SB 1783) now lets renters pay a monthly fee instead of a big security deposit. That could seriously cut your move-in costs.
Want to save even more? Look for apartments with no application fees. It could save you $100+ if you’re applying as a couple.
Approval times vary. Some places promise instant approvals, others might take 3-5 business days. Want to speed things up? Make sure your application is complete and all documents are attached.
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What Apartments Offer
North Austin apartments cater to all tastes, from no-frills to high-end living. Let’s look at what you can expect when renting in this bustling area.
Basic vs Luxury Features
North Austin apartments come in all shapes and sizes, with luxury options taking comfort to the next level.
Most basic apartments in North Austin have:
- Functional kitchens with standard appliances
- In-unit washer and dryer hookups
- Basic flooring (carpet or vinyl)
- Simple lighting fixtures
- Standard-sized closets
- Community amenities like a pool or fitness center
High-end apartments, especially in areas like The Domain, kick it up a notch:
- Gourmet kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances
- Wood-style flooring
- Designer light fixtures
- Spacious walk-in closets
- Smart home technology
- Resort-style pools and state-of-the-art fitness centers
Take The Gallery at Domain, for example. It’s like living in a fancy hotel, but cozier. One resident put it this way:
“The finishes at Gallery at Domain are top-notch. It feels like a high-end hotel, but with all the comforts of home.”
Here’s a quick look at some popular North Austin apartments:
| Apartment | Basic Features | Luxury Amenities | Price Range (1BR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bowen | 9-foot ceilings, quartz countertops | Outdoor pool, EV charging, co-working spaces | $2,600 |
| Esperanza Domain | Stainless steel appliances | Gourmet coffee bar, fitness room, dog park | $1,900 – $2,150 |
| The Addison | Dark wood cabinets, solar shades | Resort-style pool, pet spa | $1,300 – $1,700 |
Rules for Pets
Love pets? You’re in luck. North Austin has plenty of pet-friendly apartments. But heads up – policies can vary. Here’s the scoop:
Most apartments charge:
- A non-refundable pet fee (often around $350 per pet)
- Monthly pet rent (typically $15-$30 per pet)
For example, San Marin Apartments charges a one-time fee of $500 for one pet and $750 for two pets, plus monthly pet rent of $15 for one pet and $30 for two.
Some apartments have no breed or weight restrictions, while others might not allow certain breeds or big dogs. Common no-nos include Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers. Some places cap pet weight at 50-75 pounds.
Gallery At Domain is a standout for pet lovers. No breed or weight restrictions, and no monthly pet rent. It’s a hit with pet owners.
Fancy apartments often go all out for pets:
- Bexley At Anderson Mill has two dog parks, including one over 8,000 square feet
- Riata offers two large dog parks, a pet spa, and over 3 miles of jogging trails
One happy pet owner at Riata said:
“Riata is puppy heaven. Two large dog parks, a pet spa, over 3 miles of jogging trails, and large private yards available!”
Don’t forget – you’ll need to register your pet with the apartment office and sign a pet addendum. Always check the specific pet policy before signing a lease to make sure it works for you and your furry friend.
Whether you’re after basic comfort or luxury living, with or without pets, North Austin has an apartment that’ll feel like home. Happy hunting!
Moving Help and Tips
Ready to move to North Austin? Let’s make it easy. Here’s how to get settled without the stress.
Taco Street Locating
Finding an apartment in North Austin can be tough. But Taco Street Locating has your back. They’re a free service that:
- Chats with you about what you want
- Digs up apartments that fit your needs
- Helps you tour places
- Walks you through the paperwork
Using a service like this can save you time and maybe even some cash.
Moving Checklist
Want a smooth move? Here’s a plan:
8 Weeks Out:
- Book movers
- Start tossing stuff you don’t need
6 Weeks Out:
- Pack things you rarely use
- Tell important people you’re moving
4 Weeks Out:
- Set up utilities for your new place
- Figure out if you need storage
2 Weeks Out:
- Double-check with your movers
- Pack most of your stuff
1 Week Out:
- Clean your current place
- Pack a box of must-haves for your first night
Moving Day:
- Do one last check of your old place
- Show the movers around
Moving in Austin can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 for local moves. Long-distance? That’s more like $1,500 to $4,500. Want to save some cash? Try these:
- Move mid-week or mid-month
- Pack small stuff yourself
- Get quotes from different movers
Conclusion
Looking for a place in North Austin? It’s exciting, but it can be tricky. Here’s what you need to know:
Watch Your Wallet: Don’t spend more than 33% of your pre-tax income on rent. Many places want you to earn three times the rent. Don’t forget extras like utilities, internet (about $50-$70 a month), and pet costs.
Time It Right: Prices drop in fall and winter. The best deals? November to February. Start looking 60-90 days before you want to move.
Pick Your Spot: North Austin has lots of cool areas. Think about your commute, what’s nearby, and what you like. The Domain and Tech Ridge are popular spots.
Get Your Stuff Together: Have your papers ready – income proof, where you’ve lived before, and who can vouch for you. Apps can cost $50-$100 per person, so be ready.
Read the Fine Print: Look over that lease carefully. Check out stuff like rent hikes, who fixes what, and rules about pets.
Get Some Help: Free apartment finders like Taco Street Locating can make life easier.
FAQs
Where is the safest place to rent in Austin, Texas?
Austin’s got some great neighborhoods if you’re looking for a safe place to call home. Let’s break it down:
Allandale is a top pick for families. It’s got that classic Austin vibe with historic homes and plenty of outdoor spots. Expect to shell out about $1,525 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Hyde Park is where the young professionals flock. It’s not just trendy – it’s actually 10% safer than the rest of Austin. But that safety comes with a price tag: around $1,750 for a one-bedroom.
Other safe bets include Garrison Park (great for families), North University (perfect for students), and Windsor Hills (if you’re after that upscale, quiet life).
But here’s the kicker: Rosedale might just be the safest of them all. According to the PODS Blog:
Rosedale’s crime rate is a whopping 18% lower than the Austin average. If safety’s your top priority, this neighborhood should be on your radar.
Now, let’s talk about Austin’s safety as a whole. It’s a mixed bag. On one hand, violent crime is lower than you’d expect for a city this size. On the other, Austin’s only 5% safer than the average U.S. neighborhood. Your chances of being a victim of property or violent crime? About 1 in 24.
