Harris Branch Senior offers budget-friendly apartments for active adults aged 55+ in Northeast Austin‘s River Ranch neighborhood. Starting at $1,026 for one-bedroom units and $1,231 for two-bedroom options, this community combines affordability with essential amenities like a swimming pool, fitness center, and planned activities. Income restrictions apply, capped at $41,580 for individuals or $47,520 for couples.
Key Highlights:
- Apartment Features: Carpeted bedrooms, faux-wood flooring, walk-in closets, energy-efficient thermostats.
- Amenities: Clubroom, swimming pool, fitness center, gardening beds, library, and 24/7 staff availability.
- Pet Policy: Pets under 45 lbs allowed; $300 deposit + $150 fee.
- Green Features: Austin Energy Green Building Rating, tankless gas water heaters.
Quick Comparison with Other Communities:
| Community | 1-Bedroom Price | 2-Bedroom Price | Segment | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harris Branch Senior | $1,026+ | $1,231+ | Value | Accessible, affordable, pet-friendly |
| Jovie Pflugerville | $1,295 – $2,325 | $1,788 – $3,075 | Premium | Modern, wine fridges, fiber internet |
| Legacy Ranch @ Dessau East | $820 – $1,120 | $999 – $1,062 | Value | Budget-friendly, good location |
| Amberlin Pflugerville | $1,399 – $1,984 | $1,999 – $3,024 | Premium | Resort-style, social activities galore |
Harris Branch Senior provides a practical option for seniors prioritizing affordability and access to essential services in Austin. However, for those seeking luxury or more extensive amenities, exploring other communities may be worthwhile.
About Harris Branch Senior
Harris Branch Senior is a thoughtfully designed apartment community tailored for active adults aged 55 and older, located in Northeast Austin.
Apartment Features and Pricing
This community offers a selection of one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Prices start at $1,026 for one-bedroom units and $1,231 for two-bedroom options. Inside each apartment, you’ll find carpeted bedrooms, faux-wood flooring throughout, and stylish 2-inch plantation blinds. Other features include walk-in closets, built-in microwaves, dishwashers, and energy-efficient programmable thermostats.
Community Amenities
Harris Branch Senior provides a variety of amenities designed to cater to residents’ needs and enhance their lifestyle:
| Indoor Amenities | Outdoor Features | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Community Clubroom | Swimming Pool | 24/7 Staff Availability |
| State-of-the-Art Fitness Center | Raised Gardening Beds | Community Bus Transportation |
| Tech Center | Controlled Access | Complimentary Resident Services |
| Community Library | Garage Parking ($100/mo) | Maintenance Services |
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome here, but with certain restrictions. A $300 pet deposit and a $150 one-time fee apply. Pets must weigh no more than 45 pounds, and some breeds are not allowed.
Resident Experience
Feedback from residents has been mixed. While some appreciate the spacious apartments and amenities, others have mentioned concerns about maintenance. A visitor on Caring.com shared this positive impression:
"Harris Branch Senior Living was pretty and clean. The apartments have a ton of space and room for families. They have senior activities, and they have a pool. The staff were very nice, and they took the time to explain everything to me."
– Katrina (Caring.com Review)
Green Features
Harris Branch Senior holds an Austin Energy Green Building Rating, emphasizing energy efficiency. Apartments are equipped with features like a tankless gas hot water heater.
Additional Conveniences
To make life easier for residents, the community also offers:
- Elevator access throughout the building
- On-site laundry facilities with optional washer/dryer rentals
- Extra storage options
- Garage rentals for secure parking
Up next, explore how Harris Branch Senior compares to other local communities to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
1. Jovie Pflugerville
Jovie Pflugerville caters to the 55+ community, offering a modern living experience with a blend of thoughtful amenities and engaging social activities. Here’s an inside look at what makes this community stand out.
Apartment Features and Pricing
Jovie Pflugerville provides a range of stylish living options:
- One-bedroom apartments start in the $1,200s.
- Two-bedroom units are available from the $1,700s.
Each of the 182 apartments is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring:
- Full-size washer and dryer
- Hardwood flooring
- Walk-in closets
- Stainless steel appliances
- Granite or stone countertops
- Private balconies
Community Highlights
The property is packed with resort-style amenities designed to enhance wellness, social interaction, and everyday convenience:
| Wellness | Social Spaces | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| 24-hour Fitness Center | Resort-style Pool | Business Center |
| Yoga Room | Game Room | Concierge Service |
| Pickleball Court | Private Meeting Spaces | EV Charging Stations |
| Dog Park | Clubroom | Storage Space |
| Landscaped Garden | Outdoor Kitchen | Assigned Parking |
Resident Experience
Residents have rated Jovie Pflugerville an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars, frequently highlighting the vibrant social environment and the wide array of amenities available.
Location Benefits
Situated in the 78660 zip code, the community is conveniently located near schools and essential services. Nearby schools include Wieland Elementary School, Dessau Middle School, and John B. Connally High School.
Unique Features
Jovie Pflugerville goes beyond the basics by offering:
- Wine refrigerators in select apartments
- Private garden plots for residents
- Regularly planned social events and activities
- Video surveillance systems for added security
- Fiber optic cable for high-speed internet connectivity
2. Legacy Ranch at Dessau East
Legacy Ranch at Dessau East, established in 2020 in Northeast Austin, is a vibrant 55+ community featuring 232 units. It strikes a balance between affordability and a variety of amenities, creating a lively and welcoming environment for its residents.
Apartment Features and Pricing
This community provides budget-friendly living options:
- One-bedroom apartments: $820–$899 per month
- Two-bedroom apartments: $999–$1,199 per month
Each apartment includes thoughtful features like disability access, private balconies or patios, spacious walk-in closets, and a full set of appliances, including washer/dryer connections.
Community Amenities
Legacy Ranch offers a wide array of amenities designed to cater to wellness, social interaction, and convenience. Here’s a quick overview:
| Wellness & Recreation | Social Spaces | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| Fitness Center | Multi-use Room | Package Receiving |
| Swimming Pool | Community Library | Wi‑Fi Access |
| Bark Park | Clubhouse | Elevator Access |
| Picnic Area | Courtyard | Laundry Facility |
| Outdoor Grilling Station | Beauty Salon (Coming Soon) |
These features create a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle, a sentiment often reflected in resident reviews.
Location Benefits
The community’s location in the River Ranch neighborhood provides easy access to essential services, recreation, and transportation:
- Healthcare: North Austin Medical Center (5.8 miles, about 10 minutes by car); Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Pflugerville (6.7 miles, around 11 minutes by car)
- Recreation: Copperfield Nature Trail (0.7 miles); North East Metropolitan Park
- Shopping: River Ranch Plaza (0.8 miles); Dessau Retail Center (1.4 miles)
- Transportation: A quick 23-minute drive to downtown Austin with convenient access to I-35
Resident Experience
Legacy Ranch at Dessau East earns a solid 4.3/5 rating on Caring.com. Residents frequently highlight the community’s cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and peaceful atmosphere. However, some reviews mention room for improvement in management responsiveness and activity planning.
With its mix of affordability, thoughtful design, and convenient location, Legacy Ranch stands out as a strong choice for senior living in Northeast Austin. Next, we’ll explore another option in the area.
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3. Amberlin Pflugerville
Amberlin Pflugerville provides a premium, resort-style living experience tailored for adults aged 55 and up. This community is designed to offer a maintenance-free lifestyle, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and active engagement. At the heart of the property is a spacious 9,000-square-foot, two-story clubhouse, complemented by a variety of amenities that encourage an active and social lifestyle. Like other senior living options in Northeast Austin, Amberlin Pflugerville stands out for its thoughtful blend of luxury and community.
Apartment Features and Pricing
Amberlin Pflugerville offers a range of affordable apartment options in the Pflugerville area:
| Unit Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| One Bedroom | $1,399 – $1,984 |
| Two Bedroom | $1,999 – $3,024 |
Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with features like private patios or balconies, full kitchens, handicap-accessible layouts, and cable/satellite TV connectivity. For added convenience, ground-floor units are available for those who prefer easier access.
Community Amenities and Activities
This community is packed with amenities and activities that foster a vibrant, active lifestyle. From fitness programs to social gatherings, there’s something for everyone. Residents can participate in water aerobics, cooking classes, wine tastings, live performances, and a variety of social events.
Here’s a look at the amenities offered:
| Category | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Wellness & Fitness | Fitness Center, Game Room |
| Social Spaces | Clubhouse, Arts & Crafts Center, Billiards Lounge, Movie Theater, Computer/Media Center, Library |
| Outdoor Recreation | Swimming Pool, Pickleball Court, Bocce Court, Dog Park, Raised Garden Beds |
Location and Accessibility
While Amberlin Pflugerville has a modest Walk Score of 4/100, it compensates with its convenient proximity to essential services:
- Shopping: 3 shopping centers within 2.1 miles
- Parks: 5 parks within 10.5 miles
- Hospitals: 3 hospitals within 8.5 miles
Even with limited walkability, the location ensures residents have easy access to shopping, healthcare, and recreational spaces.
Resident Experience
Amberlin Pflugerville has earned glowing reviews from its residents, reflecting a high level of satisfaction:
- Caring.com: 5.0/5 from 4 reviews
- A Place for Mom: 10/10 from 8 reviews
- FamilyAssets.com: 9.2/10 Resident Review Score
"Everything about Amberlin Pflugerville is wonderful, the staff, the amenities, the events, (something for everyone) and the residents as well. This place feels like home and family!!!" – Mark A, Resident
Residents frequently highlight the warm and friendly atmosphere, clean facilities, and exceptional staff. The variety of events and activities fosters a true sense of community, making Amberlin Pflugerville a place where residents feel at home.
What Works and What Doesn’t
When comparing Harris Branch Senior to other senior living communities in Northeast Austin, a few standout factors emerge, particularly in terms of pricing, amenities, and location.
Price Comparison
Harris Branch Senior offers pricing that fits within the value-oriented market segment. A one-bedroom starts at $1,026, and a two-bedroom begins at $1,231. This places it alongside Legacy Ranch as a budget-friendly option, while Jovie and Amberlin cater to higher-end preferences:
| Community | 1-Bedroom Price Range | 2-Bedroom Price Range | Segment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harris Branch Senior | $1,026+ | $1,231+ | Value |
| Jovie Pflugerville | $1,295 – $2,325 | $1,788 – $3,075 | Premium |
| Legacy Ranch @ Dessau East | $820 – $1,120 | $999 – $1,062 | Value |
| Amberlin Pflugerville | $1,399 – $1,984 | $1,999 – $3,024 | Premium |
Amenities and Features
Harris Branch Senior focuses on providing amenities that support active and independent senior living. While its offerings are more basic compared to premium communities, they hit the essentials:
- Community spaces: Clubhouse, library, and tech center
- Wellness facilities: Fitness center and swimming pool
- Outdoor areas: Community garden
- Services: 24/7 on-site staff and optional garage rentals
Location Analysis
The location of Harris Branch Senior is often cited as a practical advantage. Nearby parks, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities make day-to-day living convenient:
- Parks: Copperfield Nature Trail (0.7 miles) and Walnut Creek Park (3.4 miles)
- Shopping: River Ranch Plaza (0.8 miles) and Yager Technology Center (1.3 miles)
- Healthcare: Cross Creek Hospital (4.5 miles) and North Austin Medical Center (5.8 miles)
Resident Experience
Resident reviews of Harris Branch Senior vary across platforms, highlighting mixed experiences:
- Caring.com: 5.0/5 (1 review)
- Apartments.com: 3.9/5 (3 reviews)
- SeniorAdvisor.com: 1.0/5 (1 review)
Comparative Analysis
Resident feedback and comparative data highlight the following strengths and limitations of Harris Branch Senior:
- Strengths:
- Affordable pricing for the area
- Convenient location near parks, shopping, and healthcare
- Pet-friendly policies
- On-site staff available around the clock
- A solid selection of basic amenities
- Limitations:
- Limited access to public transportation
- A car is necessary for most errands
- Amenity offerings are modest compared to premium communities
- Mixed resident reviews across platforms
For seniors who prioritize affordability and proximity to essential services in Northeast Austin, Harris Branch Senior is a practical option. However, those seeking more luxurious amenities and a broader range of services may find the higher-priced alternatives more appealing despite the increased cost.
Final Thoughts
Harris Branch Senior offers an affordable option for active senior living in Northeast Austin. With one-bedroom apartments starting at $1,026 and two-bedroom units at $1,231, it stands out as a budget-friendly choice compared to the average housing costs in Austin.
The community strikes a balance between affordability and convenience. It features practical amenities, a pet-friendly atmosphere, and a location close to shopping centers and medical facilities. These aspects make it appealing for seniors looking for independent living with essential services.
That said, there are some practical concerns, such as reports of elevator maintenance issues. While the apartments are designed with accessibility and functionality in mind, certain areas could use improvement, as noted in our earlier analysis.
With spacious units, amenities like a fitness center and garden areas, and competitive pricing, Harris Branch Senior is a sensible option in the Northeast Austin area. However, for those seeking a more luxurious experience or additional services, other communities may be a better fit.
Before making a decision, consider scheduling a tour and reviewing the latest state audit and licensing information. This will help ensure the community meets your expectations and aligns with your lifestyle needs.
FAQs
What are the income limits to qualify for residency at Harris Branch Senior Apartments?
To live at Harris Branch Senior Apartments, residents must meet specific income requirements. For a single-person household, the annual income cannot exceed $41,580, while for a two-person household, the limit is $47,520. These figures are set at 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the region.
Eligibility is assessed based on the total household income, which includes wages, Social Security, and other benefits. If a household’s income exceeds these limits, they won’t qualify to apply.
What is Harris Branch Senior’s pet policy, and are there any fees or restrictions for pet owners?
Pet Policy at Harris Branch Senior
Harris Branch Senior is a pet-friendly community, allowing residents to have up to two pets per apartment. Each pet must weigh 45 pounds or less. For each pet, there’s a $150 refundable deposit and a one-time, non-refundable fee of $150. However, aggressive breeds are not allowed.
For pet owners, it’s a good idea to reach out to the leasing office to confirm the latest guidelines and any other specific requirements.
What energy-efficient and eco-friendly features does Harris Branch Senior offer?
Harris Branch Senior puts a strong focus on energy efficiency and eco-friendly living. The community includes energy-efficient appliances, programmable thermostats, and tankless gas water heaters to help reduce energy usage. It proudly holds an Austin Energy Green Building Rating, reflecting its dedication to environmentally conscious construction. Adding to its green initiatives, the property features raised gardening beds and promotes healthier living with a smoke-free environment.
