Looking for modern apartments near Houston’s East Loop? Here’s a quick list of the best options, their standout features, and pricing:
- The Laura: Studio rents start at $1,346; offers bayou views, resort-style pool, and essential worker discounts.
- The Standard at the River: Studios from $1,549; features co-working spaces and spa-inspired bathrooms.
- East End Lofts: Budget-friendly studios from $1,181; historic warehouse charm with exposed brick and original windows.
- The Mill: Studio rents from $1,675; located on a historic lumber mill site with eco-friendly features.
- Canal Street Lofts: 1-bedroom units start at $1,175; close to EaDo attractions and stadiums.
- Fourth at Navigation: Studios start at $1,589; rooftop pool, fitness area, and EV charging stations.
- City View Lofts: Units from $1,379; set in a historic Nabisco building with skyline views and wine events.
Why Choose East Loop Apartments?
- Lower Rents: Save 10-15% compared to downtown.
- Convenience: Easy access to highways, METRO Green Line, and Buffalo Bayou Park.
- Pet-Friendly Living: All properties allow pets, with amenities like dog parks and pet spas.
Quick Comparison Table
| Property | Studio Rent | 1-Bed Rent | Key Features | Location Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Laura | $1,346 | $1,346+ | Bayou views, essential worker rates | Near East River development |
| The Standard | $1,549 | $1,649+ | Co-working spaces, spa bathrooms | 10 mins to downtown |
| East End Lofts | $1,181 | $1,181+ | Historic charm, exposed brick | Close to EaDo murals and nightlife |
| The Mill | $1,675 | $1,750+ | Eco-friendly, historic lumber site | Near Minute Maid Park |
| Canal Street Lofts | $1,175 | $1,175+ | Industrial-modern design | Walk to POST Houston |
| Fourth at Navigation | $1,589 | $1,684+ | Rooftop pool, EV charging | East End dining and entertainment |
| City View Lofts | $1,379 | $1,379+ | Historic Nabisco building, wine room | Skyline views, near I-10 & I-45 |
These apartments combine modern amenities with unique locations and historical charm, all while being more affordable than living downtown.
1. The Laura
First up, The Laura stands out by blending history with modern design. It pays homage to Houston’s 1836 founding steamboat[7] while offering 359 units designed to connect with Buffalo Bayou’s waterfront.
Instead of the typical interior courtyards, The Laura focuses on outward-facing designs that embrace the bayou[7]. Here’s what it offers:
- Studios and 1-bedroom units (431-568 sq ft) starting at $1,346[5][7]
- 2-bedroom units over 1,000 sq ft
- 50 units set aside at reduced rates for essential workers under a community benefits agreement[7]
Inside, you’ll find:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing city views[3][4]
- 10-foot ceilings and open layouts[7]
- Private balconies with steel accents[7]
- Sleek, modern finishes throughout[7]
The building’s shared spaces feature exposed steel beams, a nod to the area’s industrial roots, while staying stylish and current. Amenities include:
- A resort-style pool
- High-tech fitness center
- Dog park with a pet spa
- Yoga lawn and recreational gaming area
- A terrace-level park along Buffalo Bayou[7]
Part of the East River mixed-use development, The Laura also offers ground-floor retail spaces for local businesses[6][7]. The community is pet-friendly, allowing up to two animals per apartment[3].
2. The Standard at the River
Located just north of The Laura, The Standard at the River blends modern luxury with urban convenience. This four-story complex boasts 432 units, offering stunning views and direct access to Buffalo Bayou Park[2].
Apartment Options:
- Studios starting at 548 sq ft from $1,549
- 1-bedroom units starting at 650 sq ft from $1,649
- 2-bedroom units starting at 950 sq ft from $2,409
- 3-bedroom units up to 1,393 sq ft from $3,514
Each unit is designed with attention to detail, featuring:
- Stainless steel appliances, including French door refrigerators
- Quartz countertops and wood-style flooring
- Spa-inspired bathrooms with garden tubs
- Built-in workstations tailored for hybrid work setups[1]
The building’s common areas showcase exposed concrete finishes, a nod to the industrial history of the area, while offering modern perks like:
- Co-working spaces and a fully equipped business center[1][8]
- A pet park complete with a washing station
- Built-in desks within apartments for added convenience[1]
Location and Access: Situated at 91 Jensen Drive (77020), residents enjoy a quick 10-minute commute to downtown and seamless connections to bayou trails[2].
Pet Policy: Up to two pets are allowed with a $400 deposit and a $25 monthly fee per pet[9].
3. East End Lofts
East End Lofts breathes new life into a 1920s warehouse at 2115 Runnels St, transforming it into 244 modern living spaces while keeping its industrial charm intact. With exposed brick and original windows, this property showcases the area’s shift from industrial roots to residential living[10][12].
Living Spaces:
Each unit is designed to blend historic character with modern convenience, featuring:
- 16-foot ceilings with exposed ductwork, original warehouse windows, and preserved brick and wood beams
- Granite countertops paired with tile backsplashes[10][12]
- Full-size washers and dryers
- Private patios or balconies available in select units[12]
| Unit Type | Size (sq ft) | Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 696 | $1,181 |
| 1-Bed | 708-1,003 | $1,181 |
| 2-Bed | 1,168 | $1,510 |
| 3-Bed | 1,839 | $3,430 |
Standout Amenities:
- Outdoor pool with grilling stations
- Gated entry and a package receiving room
- On-site dog park for furry residents[10][11]
Prime Location:
East End Lofts is perfectly situated near:
- Downtown Houston’s business district
- EaDo’s vibrant streets filled with murals, indie music spots, and unique dining options
- A variety of entertainment venues just steps away[12][13]
Pet-Friendly Living: This community is pet-friendly and even includes a dedicated dog park for your four-legged family members[10][11].
4. The Mill
The Mill breathes new life into a historic lumber mill site, blending its rich history with modern living. This 341-unit complex spans 6.23 acres of what was once an 1890s lumber mill[14].
Living Spaces
The Mill features stylish apartments with high-end finishes:
| Unit Type | Size (sq ft) | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 612 | $1,675–$1,775 |
| 1-Bedroom | 750 | $1,750–$1,975 |
| 2-Bedroom | 1,100 | $2,015–$2,115 |
Each unit includes standout features like:
- Gas ranges in chef-inspired kitchens
- Sleek wood flooring throughout[17]
Key Amenities
Residents at The Mill enjoy a range of perks, including:
- A resort-style pool courtyard[14]
- A private lounge exclusively for residents
- An on-site dog park for pet owners[15][17]
Prime Location
Nestled between The Woodlands Town Center and Springwoods Village[16], The Mill is perfectly placed for:
- Easy access to top-tier shopping and dining
- Quick trips to Minute Maid Park[19]
Eco-Friendly and Secure
- Energy-saving features like 100% LED lighting and efficient appliances[17]
- Controlled access with round-the-clock security measures[18]
5. Canal Street Lofts
Located in Houston’s dynamic EaDo district at 2104 Canal St., Canal Street Lofts blends industrial and modern design. Opened in 2007, this property features 200 units with distinctive touches like exposed concrete accents[20].
Living Spaces
Canal Street Lofts offers a range of apartments with flexible layouts to suit various needs:
| Unit Type | Rent Range |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,175-$1,370 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,429-$2,501 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,486-$1,851 |
Apartments come with convenient features such as in-unit washer/dryer connections. Select units also include upgrades like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances[20][21][22].
Community Amenities
Residents can enjoy a gated community with a resort-style pool, fitness studio, business center, and a dog park for pet owners[20][22].
Location Benefits
The property is ideally situated for easy access to some of Houston’s most popular spots:
- Walking distance to POST Houston’s food hall
- 12-minute walk to Minute Maid Park
- Just 2 miles from Discovery Green
- Close to Buffalo Bayou recreational trails[20][22]
Its location in East Downtown highlights the area’s ongoing shift from industrial spaces to vibrant residential living. Like The Mill, it’s perfect for those who want quick access to stadium events and other attractions[20][23].
Pet Policy
Pet-friendly with a limit of two pets (up to 65 lbs each). A $600 deposit and $15 monthly fee apply[21][23].
6. Fourth at Navigation
Fourth at Navigation, located at 2404 Navigation Blvd in Houston’s East End, blends industrial charm with modern living. Completed in 2021, this eight-story building continues the East End’s shift from industrial spaces to residential hubs, drawing inspiration from The Mill’s design approach [24][27].
Living Spaces
Fourth at Navigation offers a range of floor plans with high-end finishes:
| Unit Type | Size Range (sq ft) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 510 – 802 | $1,589 – $1,919 |
| 1 Bedroom | 633 – 1,126 | $1,684 – $2,415 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,230 – 1,364 | $2,826 – $3,287 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,626 | $3,304 |
Units feature custom white oak plank flooring, rainfall shower heads, and dimmable LED mirrors in select apartments. Modern conveniences include Nest thermostats and USB outlets [25].
Amenities
The property boasts two main outdoor spaces: a rooftop pool equipped with a fitness area and a social courtyard. Additional perks include a sky lounge with stunning city views, a chef-style kitchen, and co-working spaces designed for remote professionals [25][27]. The building maintains an impressive 93% occupancy rate [28].
Prime Location
Situated in Houston’s historic East End, Fourth at Navigation offers quick access to downtown and local cultural highlights [24]. Residents can easily walk to nearby dining and entertainment, much like those at Canal Street Lofts.
Pet-Friendly Features
This property is perfect for pet owners, offering a dedicated puppy lawn [24][25]. A two-pet maximum applies [26]. EV charging stations are also available for residents [24].
7. City View Lofts
City View Lofts breathes new life into the historic 1910 Nabisco/Purse & Co. Building at 15 North Chenevert Street. Much like Fourth at Navigation, this development transforms industrial roots into stylish residential spaces. The five-story building houses 89 loft-style apartments, all offering sweeping views of Houston’s skyline[29][31].
Living Spaces
These apartments blend the charm of the building’s industrial heritage with modern-day comforts:
| Unit Type | Size Range (sq ft) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| One Bedroom | 502 – 1,100 | $1,379 – $2,018 |
| Two Bedroom | 1,100 – 2,003 | $2,018 – $4,000 |
Inside, you’ll find 12-foot ceilings and granite countertops. Some units retain original wood floors, while others feature Jacuzzi tubs or industrial-style balconies for added character[29][30][31][32].
Community Perks
City View Lofts continues the trend of upscale amenities found in nearby developments like The Standard and Fourth at Navigation. Residents can enjoy a wine storage and tasting room, complete with monthly wine events. Additional features include a theater room, billiard room, fitness center, secured parking, and valet trash services[29][30][31].
Convenient Location
Located near Interstates 10 and 45, as well as Highway 59, City View Lofts provides easy access to downtown Houston’s cultural hotspots[29][30][31].
Flexible Leasing
Lease terms range from 3 to 15 months, though shorter leases may come with extra fees[31].
Quick Comparison of East Loop Apartments
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top apartment complexes in the East Loop, based on insights from property managers.
Key Highlights:
- Most affordable studio: East End Lofts at $1,181
- Largest units: City View Lofts with options up to 2,003 sq ft
- Historical charm: The Laura (steamboat-inspired design) and City View Lofts (set in the original Nabisco building)
- Best for commuting: The Standard, just a 10-minute drive to downtown
- Pet policies: All buildings allow up to 2 pets, but The Mill stands out with no weight restrictions
Location Advantage
The East Loop delivers competitive rental pricing compared to downtown. Properties like East End Lofts and The Laura are especially appealing for renters looking for lower costs without sacrificing style or convenience[33].
Standout Features
Smart home tech is standard across all properties, but The Laura and City View Lofts shine for their preserved historical details. Fourth at Navigation’s 93% occupancy rate reflects its popularity, while East End Lofts offers the most budget-friendly studio option at $1,181.
Best Value Picks
The Laura and East End Lofts strike the perfect balance between character and cost, offering rents 10-20% lower than newer options like Fourth at Navigation. Overall, East Loop rents are about 15% less than downtown, while still providing similar amenities.
With these details in mind, narrow down your search based on what matters most to you…
Next Steps for Apartment Hunting
After reviewing East Loop options, here’s how to move forward:
Start by touring your favorite complexes at different times of the day. This will help you get a sense of noise levels and activity patterns. Bring along a checklist to compare important details like room sizes and cell phone reception. Use the comparisons you’ve made to evaluate each property carefully.
Get Your Documents Ready
For most Houston East Loop properties, you’ll need the following:
- Proof of income (typically 2.5-3x the rent)
- A valid ID
- Employment history
- Rental references
Use Free Professional Help
Taco Street Locating offers free services to make your search easier, including[34]:
- Tailored property recommendations
- Updates on available units
- Help scheduling tours
- Application guidance
- Specific knowledge about East Loop properties
Review Lease Options
While 12-month leases are standard, some properties may offer shorter or longer terms. Be sure to check the lease terms and any policies on early termination.
Plan for the Long Run
Before signing, take these steps:
- Confirm how to set up utilities
- Schedule a detailed move-in inspection
- Secure renter’s insurance
Think about how each apartment fits your commute, lifestyle, and future plans. Services like Taco Street Locating can simplify the process and help you find the best match.
