Finding the perfect modern apartment near Houston’s Texas Medical Center and Brays Bayou trails can be challenging. This guide compares six top-rated properties in the Braeswood area, highlighting their rent ranges, amenities, commute times, and proximity to outdoor spaces. Here’s what you need to know:
- Braeswood Place: Upscale apartments with rents from $1,111 to $4,005. Features include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and valet trash service. Just 2 blocks from trails and a 10-minute commute to the Medical Center.
- Co Op Medical Center: Budget-friendly studios starting at $899/month. Compact units with all-electric kitchens, a 24/7 gym, and direct access to Kroger. Only a 5-minute commute to the Medical Center.
- Monaco at Main: Luxury apartments starting at $1,261. Offers premium features like a wine tasting room and valet trash. Located 12 minutes by bike from trails and 5 minutes from the Medical Center.
- Broadstone Toscano: European-inspired apartments with rents from $1,135 to $3,336. Located 0.3 miles from trails, offering smartphone-controlled entry and three pools. An 8-minute drive to the Medical Center.
- Portico Kirby: Mediterranean-style units starting at $1,349. Includes a Medical Center shuttle and resort-like amenities. Walking distance to trails and parks.
- Weston Medical Center: Smart apartments with rents from $1,041 to $1,870. Features app-controlled locks, smart thermostats, and a bike rental service. A 5-minute bike ride to trails and the Medical Center.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Braeswood Place | Co Op Medical Center | Monaco at Main | Broadstone Toscano | Portico Kirby | Weston Medical Center |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent Range | $1,111-$4,005 | $899-$1,500 | $1,261-$2,988 | $1,135-$3,336 | $1,349-$2,499 | $1,041-$1,870 |
| Medical Center Commute | 10 minutes | 5 minutes | 5 minutes | 8 minutes | Shuttle | 5 minutes |
| Trail Access | 2 blocks | 15-min bike ride | 12-min bike ride | 0.3 miles | Walking distance | 5-min bike ride |
| Signature Amenity | Valet trash | Kroger access | Wine room | Smartphone entry | Shuttle | Smart thermostats |
If you’re looking for affordability, Co Op Medical Center is a great choice. For luxury, consider Braeswood Place or Monaco at Main. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Broadstone Toscano, while Portico Kirby offers convenience with its shuttle service. Weston Medical Center combines smart tech with quick trail access.
1. Braeswood Place
Braeswood Place, located at 3838 North Braeswood Boulevard, offers upscale apartments just two blocks from the Brays Bayou trails. Positioned near the Medical Center, it combines city living with easy access to outdoor spaces, making it a great option for those who value both convenience and nature.
Rent prices range from $1,111 to $4,005 [1], with units featuring 9-foot ceilings (some vaulted [7]), wood-style flooring, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit washers and dryers. It’s especially suitable for medical professionals, with commutes under 10 minutes.
Amenities include:
- A resort-style pool, fitness center, game room, and business center [1][6]
- Private patios or balconies [1]
- A business center equipped with a conference room [1]
The property is pet-friendly, though breed restrictions and fees apply. Current deals include two weeks of free rent on select units [6][3].
Next, let’s take a look at Co Op Medical Center’s more compact urban layout.
2. Co Op Medical Center
Located right next to Brays Bayou greenway access points, Co Op Medical Center at 7710 Main St is nestled in the heart of Texas Medical Center. Its design leans toward compact, studio-style apartments, offering a different vibe compared to Braeswood Place’s larger unit options. While it’s a bit farther from the Brays Bayou trails, you can still reach the greenway by bike in under 15 minutes.
Rent for studios starts at $899/month, with utilities included [2][11]. The property offers eight floor plans ranging from 580-square-foot studios to 880-square-foot two-bedroom units [10]. Apartments feature stainless steel appliances in all-electric kitchens, and some include wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies [2][4].
Amenities include:
- A 24/7 fitness center and resort-style pool
- Coffee bar, clubhouse, and gated access
- Basketball and volleyball courts, plus a bark park
- A walking gate that provides direct access to Kroger grocery store
Residents give the community an average rating of 3.6/5 across 61 reviews [11]. Highlights include the 24/7 gym, convenient access to Kroger, and maintenance that typically resolves issues within 48 hours [11].
Assigned parking is available for $35/month [10]. Current promotions include $200 cash back on select leases [9]. The property allows up to two pets per unit, though breed restrictions apply [8].
Next, we’ll take a closer look at Monaco at Main and what it brings to the Medical Center area.
3. Monaco at Main
Located at 8333 Braesmain Drive, Monaco at Main combines upscale living with convenient access to the Texas Medical Center and the University of Houston. Though it’s a bit farther from the Brays Bayou trails than Braeswood Place, it still offers easy bike access to the greenway system.
Rental prices start at $1,261 for one-bedroom units and go up to $2,988 for premium two-bedroom layouts. Mid-range options, like the 1,428 sq ft Sunset plan, are priced at $1,633 [14][15]. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with high-end finishes, including:
- 9-foot ceilings with crown molding
- Laminate wood-style flooring
- Gourmet kitchens featuring black appliances and granite countertops
- Oversized soaking tubs
- Walk-in closets with built-in shoe racks [12][13]
The property holds a 3.7/5 star rating based on 286 Google reviews [16] and boasts a variety of amenities, such as:
- A resort-style pool with a tanning ledge and a separate lap pool
- A demonstration kitchen and wine tasting room
- A modern fitness center
- A dedicated pet park
- 24-hour maintenance services
For those planning a February 2025 move-in, Monaco at Main is currently offering a $1,000 Look-N-Lease Special on select units [13]. Additional discounts are available for medical staff, students, faculty, first responders, and active military personnel [13].
Its location at the intersection of Main Street and Old Spanish Trail places residents just 12 minutes from the Brays Bayou trails by bike and mere minutes from NRG Stadium [15]. The 5-minute commute to the Medical Center makes it especially appealing to healthcare professionals.
Like Portico Kirby, Monaco prioritizes safety with video surveillance and optional intrusion alarms [14][15]. Valet trash service is also offered for an extra $25 per month [13].
4. Broadstone Toscano
Located at 2900 North Braeswood Boulevard, Broadstone Toscano brings a touch of European-inspired luxury just 0.3 miles from the Brays Bayou trails. Its spot along Braeswood Boulevard provides direct bike access to the 30-mile trail network. Built in 2013, this four-story community offers apartments ranging from 642 to 1,745 square feet [19].
Current Rental Rates
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio/1 Bedroom | $1,135-$1,748 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,595-$3,336 |
| 3 Bedroom | Available upon request |
Apartment Features
Each residence is designed with high-end finishes, including:
- Hardwood-style flooring
- Granite countertops
- In-unit washer and dryer
- Smartphone-controlled entry systems [17]
Community Amenities
Residents enjoy access to three swimming pools, landscaped courtyards with walking paths, and a café lounge that includes coworking spaces [17].
For those working in healthcare, the property is conveniently located just an 8-minute drive from the Texas Medical Center ERs [18].
Other perks include:
- A café lounge with a coffee bar
- A conference room ideal for remote work
- A clubroom perfect for hosting social events [17]
For those planning to move in by February 2025, flexible lease options, including short-term agreements, are available [19].
5. Portico Kirby
Portico Kirby, located at 7550 Kirby Drive, combines Mediterranean-inspired design with the convenience of walkable access to Brays Bayou trails and the Texas Medical Center.
Rental Rates and Floor Plans
Tailored for medical professionals who need flexible leasing options, Portico Kirby offers 22 floor plans to choose from [22]:
| Unit Type | Rent Range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,349+ |
| 1 Bed | $1,350-$1,759 |
| 2 Bed | $1,500-$2,139 |
| 3 Bed | Up to $2,499 |
Apartment Features
Each unit is equipped with thoughtful storage solutions, including:
- Spacious garden tubs
- Adjustable closet systems [23]
Community Amenities
The property boasts a range of resort-like features, such as:
- A pool with cabanas, a fully-equipped fitness center, and beautifully landscaped courtyards
- A clubhouse designed for events and social gatherings [20][21]
Location Perks
With a Walk Score of 71 [24], Portico Kirby provides:
- A dedicated shuttle service to the Texas Medical Center
- Easy access to nearby parks, museums, and theaters [21]
Leasing Options and Pet Policy
Lease terms range from 3 to 12 months, with shorter leases available at a premium [23]. Residents can have up to two pets, with a $400 fee and $20 monthly pet rent per pet [23].
Special promotions, like one month free on select units, make Portico Kirby an appealing choice for those seeking luxury living near Brays Bayou [24].
6. Weston Medical Center
Weston Medical Center Apartments, located at 7510 Brompton Road, offers modern living with updated interiors featuring quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. The apartments are equipped with tech-friendly features like app-controlled locks and smart thermostats [30].
Rental Rates and Floor Plans
| Unit Type | Rent Range |
|---|---|
| 1 Bed (580-920 sq ft) | $1,041-$1,344 [29] |
| 2 Bed (1,032-1,545 sq ft) | $1,470-$1,870 [25][28] |
Smart Living Features
These apartments are designed for convenience with:
- App-controlled door locks
- Smart thermostats
- Digital maintenance request options [30]
Premium Amenities
Residents can take advantage of:
- A fully equipped fitness center
- Swimming pool
- Business center with remote work facilities
- Bike rental service [27]
- Pet-friendly play area for both cats and dogs [25]
Location Benefits
This property offers great access to outdoor and medical facilities:
- A quick 5-minute bike ride to Brays Bayou trails
- Easy access to Texas Medical Center hospitals [26][27]
Additional Costs and Policies
Here are some extra costs to keep in mind:
- Pet rent: $20/month plus a $400 deposit
- Application and administrative fees: $50 each [28]
Resident Feedback
Weston Medical Center has earned an 8.0/10 rating from residents [30]. Common highlights include:
- A responsive maintenance team
- Quiet and safe surroundings
- Spacious floor plans with in-unit laundry
The property also offers discounts for students and military personnel [30]. With its mix of smart home features and proximity to the bayou, it’s a great choice for renters who value both modern amenities and outdoor lifestyle options.
Comparison Chart
Here’s a breakdown of modern apartments near Brays Bayou, highlighting their standout features:
| Feature | Braeswood Place | Co-Op Medical Center | Monaco at Main | Broadstone Toscano | Portico Kirby | Weston Medical Center |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent Range | $1,111-$4,005 [1] | $899-$1,500 [10] | $1,261-$2,988 [14] | $1,135-$3,336 [19] | $1,349-$2,499 [22] | $1,041-$1,870 [25] |
| Medical Center Commute | 10 minutes [5] | 5 minutes [11] | 5 minutes [15] | 8 minutes [18] | Direct shuttle [21] | 5 minutes [26] |
| Trail Access | 2 blocks [1] | 15-min bike ride [11] | 12-min bike ride [15] | 0.3 miles [19] | Walking distance [21] | 5-min bike ride [27] |
| Signature Amenity | Valet trash ($25/mo) [5] | Direct Kroger access [11] | Wine tasting room [13] | Smartphone entry [17] | Medical Center shuttle [21] | Smart thermostats [30] |
Highlights to Consider:
- Convenience: Broadstone Toscano offers the shortest distance to trails at just 0.3 miles [19], while Portico Kirby stands out with its exclusive Medical Center shuttle [21].
- Tech Features: Weston Medical Center and Broadstone Toscano bring modern smart home capabilities, including app-controlled access [30][17].
- Rent Options: Co-Op Medical Center has the most affordable starting rent at $899 [10], while Braeswood Place offers high-end units up to $4,005 [1].
- Commute: Most properties ensure a quick 5-8 minute commute to the Medical Center, with Portico Kirby providing a dedicated shuttle [21].
This comparison helps pinpoint which property best matches your preferences, whether it’s affordability, commute time, or proximity to trails.
Summary and Recommendations
Our analysis highlights the best rental options based on key renter priorities, such as proximity to the Medical Center, access to outdoor spaces, and premium amenities.
For Renters Near the Medical Center and Bayou
For Medical Professionals
Co-Op Medical Center, starting at $899, is a budget-friendly choice for medical staff. With just a 5-minute commute to the Medical Center, it’s a practical option. Residents rated it 3.6/5, appreciating its pet-friendly policies [11].
For Those Seeking Luxury
Braeswood Place offers high-end units with vaulted ceilings and private balconies, priced up to $4,005 [1]. Monaco at Main stands out with upscale amenities, including a wine tasting room [13].
For Outdoor Lovers
Broadstone Toscano provides unmatched trail access, just 0.3 miles away [19]. Meanwhile, Portico Kirby offers a convenient shuttle service to the Medical Center [21].
Amenities to Consider
Budget-Friendly Options
| Rental Priority | Best Options | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Efficiency | Co-Op Medical Center | Starting at $899 [11] |
| Premium Features | Braeswood Place | Resort-style amenities [1] |
While all six properties offer modern conveniences, Co-Op Medical Center and Braeswood Place stand out for their strong mix of commute ease and location perks.
FAQs
Is Braeswood Place a good place to live?
Braeswood Place apartments are among the top choices for rentals near Houston’s Medical Center. According to our Braeswood Place profile, these apartments pair a convenient location with perks like valet trash service and private balconies[1][5].
The neighborhood features light traffic, direct access to bayou trails, and enhanced security through regular patrols[1][5]. An active civic club and a constable patrol program help maintain the area’s appeal[1].
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Residents | Medical professionals & commuters |
| Standout Features | Valet trash, vaulted ceilings[1][7] |
| Location Perks | 10-minute commute to Medical Center[5] |
"The neighborhood offers a quiet residential feel while being conveniently located near large shopping centers. The area has everything you could want and more, but the traffic isn’t as bad as River Oaks or other Houston neighborhoods."[1]
Braeswood Place is especially appealing to medical workers needing quick access to emergency rooms[5]. It strikes a perfect balance between urban convenience and a peaceful residential atmosphere, ideal for healthcare professionals and city commuters alike.
