A Complete Guide to Living and Renting Apartments in Leander Texas

Looking for a place to call home near Austin? Leander, Texas might be your answer. Here’s what you need to know:

• Location: 22 miles northwest of Austin
• Population: Nearly 90,000 and growing fast
• Average Rent: $1,627 per month
• Commute to Austin: 28-45 minutes by car or MetroRail

Why Leander?

• Affordable living compared to Austin
• Booming job market
• Top-rated schools
• Plenty of outdoor activities

Renting in Leander:

• Studio apartments start at $1,118/month
• 2-bedroom apartments average $1,892/month
• Aim to earn 3x your rent in monthly income

Getting around:

• MetroRail Red Line to Austin
• CapMetro‘s Pickup service for local trips

Popular neighborhoods:

• Devine Lake for luxury living
• Downtown Leander for an urban feel
• Rancho Sienna for community vibes

Leander offers a mix of suburban charm and city perks, making it an attractive option for young professionals and families alike. With its rapid growth and development, now might be the perfect time to make your move.

About Leander

Leander, Texas is booming. Just 22 miles from Austin, it’s become a magnet for young professionals and families. Why? It offers small-town vibes with big-city perks, all at a price that won’t break the bank.

Getting to Austin

Leander’s location is a big plus. The drive to downtown Austin? 28 to 45 minutes, tops. Perfect for those who want city jobs but crave suburban peace.

Don’t like traffic? No problem. Hop on the CapMetro Commuter Rail. It’s got Wi-Fi, bike racks, and real-time arrival updates. Commuting made easy.

Population and Growth

Leander’s growth is off the charts. In 2019, the U.S. Census Bureau crowned it the fastest-growing large city in the nation. The numbers tell the story:

• 2014: 35,276 residents
• Today: Nearly 90,000 residents

That’s not just growth. That’s explosion.

Mayor Christine Delisle explains Leander’s appeal:

“We have a phenomenal school district, and so what we see is a lot of young families that move here to raise their kids in the school district, and then we see a lot of grandparents that follow and live in slightly smaller houses, so they can be close to their grandkids.”

And this growth train? It’s not slowing down. By 2040, we might be talking hundreds of thousands of residents.

Things to Do

Despite the growth spurt, Leander hasn’t lost its charm. It’s packed with things to do:

Outdoor Fun: Robin Bledsoe Park is the place to be. It’s got a pool, movie nights, and fitness classes. Water lover? Head to Lakewood Park for kayaking. Disc golf fan? Benbrook Ranch Park has an 18-hole course waiting for you.

Shopping: Need the basics? Gateway Shopping Center has got you covered with big names like Lowe’s and Kohl’s. Want local flavor? Check out The Shops at Crystal Falls or Crystal Falls Town Center.

Unique Spots: River Ranch Inn, nestled between Leander and Liberty Hill, offers kayaking and paddleboarding on the South San Gabriel River.

Food Scene: Leander’s got taste. Don’t miss Casa Costa Bake Shop in Old Town. It serves up Portuguese and Brazilian treats, and your furry friends are welcome too.

Leander’s not done growing. City officials are working hard to balance homes with businesses. Keep an eye out for Northline, Leander’s future downtown. It’s set to add even more to this Texas hotspot.

Getting Around

Living in Leander doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Getting to Austin or around town is pretty simple. Here’s how:

MetroRail Red Line

The MetroRail Red Line is your express route to Austin. It’s a 32-mile track that goes straight from Leander to downtown Austin.

What’s cool about it?

• Free Wi-Fi on the train
• Real-time updates on when the train’s coming
• Spots for your bike

It takes about an hour to get from Leander Station to Downtown Station. Trains leave every two hours. And it’s cheap – just $4 a ticket.

“The MetroRail Red Line is a handy and cheap way to get to Austin. It takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on when you go.” – Paraiso Island

Tip: Get the CapMetro App. You can buy tickets and check schedules on your phone. No cash? No worries. The ticket machines at the stations take credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Pickup Leander Service

Need to get around Leander? Try CapMetro’s Pickup service. It’s like a bus that comes when you call it.

Here’s what you need to know:

• When it runs: Weekdays 6 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• How much: $1.25 per ride (kids 18 and under ride free with code “CHILDFREE”)
• How to use it: Download the Pickup by CapMetro app or call 512-369-6200

They just made the service area bigger. Now you can get to places like Cedar Park Regional Emergency Center, Crystal Falls Crossing Apartments, and Randall’s.

“This is going to help a lot of people”, said Christine DeLisle, Leander’s Mayor.

Get this: CapMetro rides in Leander went up by 788% from 2020 to 2023. That’s a LOT more people using public transport.

So whether you’re heading to Austin for work or just need to grab groceries in Leander, you’ve got options. And as Leander grows, you can bet there’ll be even more ways to get around.

Rent Prices and Trends

Leander’s rental market is changing. Let’s look at the costs and trends shaping the apartment scene in this growing Texas town.

Monthly Rent Costs

As of July 2024, the average rent in Leander is $1,627. Here’s how it’s changed:

• July 2022: $1,800
• July 2023: $1,669
• July 2024: $1,627

Good news for renters: prices are going down.

Here’s what you’ll pay for different apartment types:

Most rents in Leander (42%) fall between $1,501 and $2,000.

How does Leander compare to other Texas cities?

• Leander: $1,627
• Austin: $1,703
• Cedar Park: $1,590
• Georgetown: $1,637
• Houston: $1,353
• San Antonio: $1,285

Leander sits right in the middle – not as pricey as Austin, but not as cheap as Houston or San Antonio.

Required Income

Want to rent in Leander without breaking the bank? Here’s what you need to earn:

• Monthly income: $5,423
• Annual income: $65,076

This is based on the 30% rule – don’t spend more than 30% of your income on rent.

“Because the average rent in Leander is $1,332, you’ll want to make about $4,440 per month or $53,280 per year.”

This quote gives a lower estimate, but it’s smart to aim higher for some financial wiggle room.

Leander’s rental market is small but growing. Only 24% of households (about 5,029 units) are rentals. With the city growing fast, this could affect future prices and availability.

Prices vary across Leander. You’ll find higher rents in the northeast and cheaper options in the southwest.

When choosing a place in Leander, think beyond just the price. Consider your commute, nearby amenities, and how it fits your lifestyle. Happy hunting!

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Types of Apartments

Leander’s got apartments for everyone. Whether you’re after luxury living or a budget-friendly pad, this Texas town has you covered.

High-End Apartments

Fancy living in Leander? You’re in luck. The luxury apartment scene is booming.

Take Aven Ridge, for example. They’ve got polished 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in this growing Austin suburb. While they don’t spill all the details, you can bet on the usual luxury perks:

• Pools that make you feel like you’re on vacation
• Gyms that’ll make your local fitness center jealous
• Clubhouses for when you want to show off to your friends
• Concierge services (because who doesn’t want to feel like a VIP?)

Then there’s The Gabriel. Here’s what they’re bragging about:

• Floors that look like wood (but aren’t)
• Gas stoves for all you aspiring chefs
• Private outdoor spaces
• Pet-friendly policies (because Fido deserves luxury too)
• Right on the 183A Toll Rd (hello, easy commute!)

If you’re all about that outdoor life, check out The Villas of Mason Hills. They’ve got:

• A clubhouse (for when you’re feeling social)
• A fitness center (for when you’re feeling guilty about that extra slice of pizza)
• A pool (coming soon, they promise)
• Wheelchair accessibility
• High ceilings (for all you tall folks)
• Big closets (because you can never have too many shoes)
• Appliances that won’t make your energy bill cry

“Every moment feels special at Villas of Mason Hills. Starting with the exquisite amenities and continuing with the spacious layouts, our homes are bound to win you over.”

Plus, it’s close to Devine Lake Park and Cedar Bark Park. Nature lovers and dog owners, rejoice!

Standard and Budget Apartments

Not looking to break the bank? No worries. Leander’s got options that won’t make your wallet weep.

As of July 2024, here’s what you’re looking at for average rents:

But wait, it gets better. There are places under $1,000 a month:

• Studios from $751
• 1-bedrooms from $783
• 2-bedrooms from $1,110

The real budget superstar? Merritt Legacy. They’ve got a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom place starting at $626. That’s a steal!

Other wallet-friendly options include:

• The Quest: Studios from $951
• The Chloe Leander: Studios from $990
• Park at Crystal Falls: 1-bedrooms from $995

Now, these budget-friendly spots might not have all the fancy extras, but many still offer the basics:

• Washers and dryers in your unit
• Hardwood floors
• Window coverings
• Appliances that won’t make your energy bill skyrocket

Just a heads up: Leander’s rental market is pretty small. Only about 24% of households (that’s around 5,029 units) are rentals. With the city growing fast, this could mean prices might go up and apartments might get harder to find.

Pro tip: Check out Taco Street Locating. They’ll help you find an apartment for free. They’ll even give you personalized advice and research spreadsheets. It’s like having a apartment-hunting buddy who actually knows what they’re doing.

Where to Live

Leander, Texas is packed with rental options. But which area fits you best? Let’s dive in.

Top Areas for Apartments

Leander’s neighborhoods cater to different needs and wallets. Here’s the scoop:

Devine Lake: Average home value: $753K. It’s pricey, but you get luxury and lakeside living. Perfect if you love water and don’t mind spending more.

Parkside: Average: $676K. It’s suburban charm meets modern perks. Families love it for the schools and green spaces.

Bryson Ridge: Average: $626K. Known for its great roads. As Sudhakar Karumuri, Broker and Owner of SKTX Inc., puts it:

“Bryson Ridge is one of the best locations in Leander because of the connectivity of the roads.”

Rancho Sienna: Average: $597K. It’s all about community living. One resident says:

“It is a really nice quality of life.”

Think trails, events, and neighborly vibes.

Downtown Leander: Average: $437K. Want an urban feel? This is your spot. You’re close to shops, food, and the MetroRail to Austin.

Morningstar: Average: $446K. It’s newer, with modern designs and community perks.

Remember, these are home values. Rent will differ, but it gives you an idea of each area’s cost.

Stores and Restaurants Nearby

Leander’s got you covered for shopping and eating:

Gateway Shopping Center: Big names like Lowe’s and Kohl’s. It’s central, so easy to reach.

The Shops at Crystal Falls: Mix of local and chain stores. Crystal Falls residents love it.

Old Town Leander: Unique local spots. Try Casa Costa Bake Shop for Portuguese and Brazilian treats. Bonus: bring your pet!

H-E-B Plus!: Big Texas grocery store. Near 183A Toll Road, so it’s easy to get to.

When picking a spot, think about your daily life. Want to walk to coffee? Or is a quick drive to groceries more your style? Most places in Leander are within a 10-15 minute drive.

Chris Tinnell, a local real estate pro, sums it up:

“These neighborhoods are really built around providing things for people and families to get together.”

Leander’s got something for everyone. Just remember your budget, commute, and lifestyle when choosing. Happy hunting!

How to Rent

Let’s break down the rental process in Leander.

Finding Help with Taco Street Locating

Taco Street Locating offers a free service to help you find your perfect Leander apartment. Here’s how it works:

1. Personalized Consultation

You’ll have a discovery call to nail down what you’re looking for. They’ll ask about:

• Where you want to live
• How much you can spend
• What features you need
• Your lifestyle preferences

2. Curated Apartment List

Based on your chat, they’ll send you a list of apartments that fit the bill. No more endless scrolling through listings!

3. Tour Assistance

Need to see the place in person or via video? They’ll set it up for you.

4. Application Support

Found your spot? They’ll help you apply and check if you qualify.

And guess what? It’s FREE for you. The apartment communities pay Taco Street Locating, not you.

“We’re here to make your apartment hunt a breeze. Let’s find your new home together!” – Ross, Austin Apartment Locator

Paperwork and Lease Rules

Once you’ve found your Leander dream pad, it’s paperwork time:

1. The Application Process

• You’ll pay a non-refundable fee (usually $30-$50)
• Get these ready:
  • Government ID
  • Proof of income
  • Social Security number
  • Rental history
  • References

2. Income Requirements

Most landlords want your monthly income to be at least 3x the rent. So, $1,500 rent? You need to make $4,500 or more per month.

3. Credit and Background Checks

Landlords will check out everyone 18 and up:

• Credit report
• Criminal background
• Rental history

4. Application Deposit

Some places want an application deposit. It’s different from the fee and usually goes toward your security deposit if you’re approved.

5. Lease Agreement

Read it carefully! Look for:

• Rent amount and due date
• Late fee policy
• Pet rules
• Who fixes what
• How long the lease is

Here’s a Texas law tip: If you don’t hear back within 7 days of applying (or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday), assume you didn’t get it.

6. Security Deposit

Be ready to fork over 1-3 months’ rent as a security deposit. This is separate from your first month’s rent.

Conclusion

Leander, Texas is a sweet spot for folks who want a mix of suburban chill and city perks. Let’s break down why this place is catching everyone’s eye:

It’s easier on the wallet. Living costs are 7% below the U.S. average. Sure, rent’s a bit higher at $2,199, but you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Leander’s booming. It’s the 4th fastest-growing city in Texas. That means more stuff to do, more places to live, and more opportunities popping up left and right.

Got kids? The schools here are top-notch. Leander Independent School District ranks 12th out of 1,018 in Texas. That’s pretty impressive.

Commuting’s a breeze. Hop on the MetroRail Red Line, and you’re in Austin in 30-45 minutes. Work in the city, live in the ‘burbs – best of both worlds.

Life’s good here. Low crime, tons of outdoor stuff to do, and a real sense of community. They’ve always got something going on to keep things lively.

Housing? Take your pick. From fancy digs like The Gabriel to more budget-friendly spots, there’s something for everyone.

When you’re thinking about moving to Leander, consider what matters most to you. Great schools? Easy commute? Room to grow? Leander’s got it all.

“You belong here. In Leander, embraced by Texas charm. Serenaded by the music of Austin and the quiet of suburban life.” – Homes.com