Searching for an apartment in Southwest Austin? Cliffs at Barton Creek offers a mix of stunning views, modern amenities, and easy access to downtown Austin. Here’s a quick overview:
- Location: Near Barton Creek Square Mall and Zilker Park, with scenic downtown views.
- Pricing:
- 1-bedroom: $1,338–$2,669/month
- 2-bedroom: $1,981–$3,252/month
- 3-bedroom: Pricing upon request
- Amenities: Year-round pool, fitness center, walking trails, pet yard, gated access, and more.
- Resident Ratings: 4.8/5 on Apartments.com; praised for location and service but noted for parking challenges and some outdated units.
Quick Comparison: Competing communities like Monterey Ranch, Sedona Springs, and Chevy Chase offer varied pricing and features, but Cliffs at Barton Creek stands out for its premium location and scenic setting.
Want to dive deeper? Keep reading for detailed comparisons and insights into each community.
Southwest Austin Apartment Guide | Taco Street Locating
Cliffs at Barton Creek Overview
Opened in 1994, Cliffs at Barton Creek offers 210 apartments spread across 10 buildings in Southwest Austin’s 78746 zip code.
This property provides a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments, all designed with open-concept layouts and modern conveniences. Each unit includes air conditioning, fireplaces, high ceilings, electronic thermostats, full-size washer/dryers, efficient appliances, extra storage, carpeting, ceiling fans, large closets, and either a patio or balcony for added comfort and functionality.
Pricing and Fees
- 1-bedroom units: $1,338 to $2,669/month
- 2-bedroom units: $1,981 to $3,252/month
- 3-bedroom units: Pricing available upon request
Security deposits are set at $150 for one-bedroom units, $250 for two-bedroom units, and $350 for three-bedroom units. Additional costs include a $75 application fee, $15 monthly pet rent, and parking fees ranging from $45 for covered spots to $65–$90 for garage spaces.
Amenities
Residents have access to a variety of features, including:
- A year-round pool
- Fitness center
- Walking trails (with room for maintenance improvements)
- Pet yard
- Business center
- Clubhouse
- Gated access
- On-site laundry
- Package receiving services
- Recycling programs
These amenities, paired with the property’s cliffside setting, provide a blend of convenience and scenic views of downtown Austin.
Location Highlights
The property scores a Walk Score of 57, a Transit Score of 24, and a Bike Score of 33, making it most suitable for drivers. Its proximity to Barton Creek Square Mall ensures easy access to shopping and dining, while nearby Zilker Park offers outdoor recreation, festivals, and the iconic Barton Springs Pool. The community continues to grow, with recent additions like the 50-foot by 54-foot shade structure at Agave Neighborhood Park, completed in 2025, highlighting investments in local amenities.
Resident Feedback
Cliffs at Barton Creek has received strong reviews, with RentCafe giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars (based on 15 reviews) and Apartments.com rating it 4.8 out of 5. Location earns a perfect 5 out of 5, while amenities score 4.5 out of 5. However, some residents have pointed out that certain units reflect their 1990s construction, and parking can be a challenge during busy times.
1. Monterey Ranch
Monterey Ranch stands out as a strong alternative to Cliffs at Barton Creek, offering appealing rates and a host of amenities. Situated at 4701 Staggerbrush Road in Austin’s 78749 zip code, this community in the South Mopac-Barton Creek area provides a mix of classic and deluxe apartment options, catering to a variety of preferences. Let’s take a closer look at what Monterey Ranch has to offer, starting with its pricing.
Pricing
One of Monterey Ranch’s highlights is its competitive pricing, especially for smaller units. Studio apartments range from $1,030 to $1,945 per month, while one-bedroom units are available between $1,040 and $2,100. Across all unit types, rents vary from $1,030 to $3,345. This pricing structure makes it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without compromising on amenities.
Amenities
When it comes to amenities, Monterey Ranch goes above and beyond. Residents have access to five pools, a fitness center with classes, an outdoor yoga deck, and dedicated sports courts. There are also dog parks, scenic trails, and a community center equipped with a movie theater and recreation room. These features provide a well-rounded living experience for individuals and families alike.
Location
Monterey Ranch is conveniently located near the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering easy access to nature and outdoor activities. Its proximity to major routes like South Mopac, Brodie Lane, and William Cannon makes commuting to downtown Austin and other key areas a breeze.
Resident Feedback
Residents have rated Monterey Ranch highly, giving it an average score of 4.5 out of 5, with amenities receiving the same rating. Many appreciate the professional management and the quality of the recreational facilities. However, some residents have raised concerns about the cleanliness and availability of amenities during peak times. While the community provides a wide range of facilities, maintaining consistent upkeep is an area that could use attention.
2. Sedona Springs
Sedona Springs, located at 4201 Monterey Oaks in Austin’s 78749 zip code, offers a convenient option for those seeking Southwest Austin living. Its location near Mopac Expressway and Highway 290 ensures an easy commute to downtown Austin. However, with scores of 39 for walkability, 51 for biking, and 28 for transit, this area leans heavily on car travel, with limited options for walking or public transportation.
Pricing
Sedona Springs provides budget-friendly apartment options:
- One-bedroom apartments start at $1,080
- Two-bedroom units begin at $1,415
- Three-bedroom apartments are available starting at $2,120
This pricing makes it an appealing choice for renters looking to balance affordability with convenience.
Location
The community is surrounded by a variety of amenities and services, including:
- Target (0.53 miles)
- Office Depot (0.48 miles)
- Jersey Mike’s Subs and Cypress Grill (0.39 miles)
- West Creek Dental (0.38 miles)
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Austin (0.49 miles)
- CVS Pharmacy (0.54 miles)
- Archstone Greenbelt (0.29 miles)
- Williamson Creek West Greenbelt (0.51 miles)
- Gold’s Gym (0.43 miles)
Resident Feedback
Residents of Sedona Springs often rely on personal vehicles due to the area’s car-dependent nature. Its proximity to major highways is a major perk, especially for professionals commuting downtown who prefer the quieter atmosphere of Southwest Austin. The combination of affordable rents and convenient access to key areas makes it a strong option for those seeking value and practicality.
Next, we’ll take a closer look at another nearby community to help you weigh your options.
3. Chevy Chase
Chevy Chase, located in North Austin‘s St. Johns neighborhood at 7581 Chevy Chase Dr, is a great option for those seeking an affordable and active lifestyle. With a convenient location just about 10 minutes from major employers like Dell Technologies, IBM, and UT Austin, it offers both accessibility and value.
Pricing
Chevy Chase stands out with its budget-friendly rental rates:
- One-bedroom apartments: Starting at $922
- Two-bedroom units: Starting at $1,259
- Three-bedroom apartments: Starting at $1,610
For comparison, Cliffs at Barton Creek charges $1,338 for one-bedroom units and $1,981 for two-bedroom units. This means Chevy Chase offers savings of approximately $416 and $722 per month for these unit types, making it a more economical choice.
Amenities
Chevy Chase offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. The community features:
- Two tennis courts
- Two swimming pools
- A social lounge with billiards
- A playground
On-site conveniences include a fitness center, laundry facilities, and 24-hour emergency maintenance. Inside the apartments, residents enjoy walk-in closets, ceiling fans, and high-speed internet. Select units also offer upgrades like vinyl flooring, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, and private balconies or yards.
Location
The North Austin setting of Chevy Chase offers a distinct lifestyle compared to communities in Southwest Austin. While Cliffs at Barton Creek provides proximity to Barton Creek Square Mall and parks, Chevy Chase residents benefit from nearby attractions such as Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Village, Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, and Mueller Lake Park. For those employed at Dell Technologies, IBM, or UT Austin, the short 10-minute commute adds another layer of convenience to this community’s appeal.
Resident Feedback
Chevy Chase holds a 3.5 out of 5 rating based on 31 reviews. While many residents appreciate the affordability and amenities, some have raised concerns about staff responsiveness and the condition of apartments during move-in. Visiting the property in person is recommended to get a feel for the community and evaluate current management practices.
sbb-itb-b58f531
Pros and Cons
Deciding between Cliffs at Barton Creek and Sedona Springs? Here’s a closer look at the key advantages and drawbacks of each community, based on resident feedback and available amenities:
| Community | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cliffs at Barton Creek | – Prime location near downtown Austin and Barton Creek Greenbelt – Highly rated staff (5/5 on RentCafe) – Amenities include a pool, fitness center, and dog park |
– Frequent staff turnover causing management instability – Security concerns like car break-ins and burglaries – Parking fees ranging from $45 to $90/month – Maintenance issues with trails and apartment systems – Some units described as outdated |
| Sedona Springs | – Quiet atmosphere with friendly neighbors – Quick maintenance response and well-kept facilities – Recent upgrades, including Yale touchpads and re-roofing – Beautiful greenbelt setting with mature trees – Fenced yards for ground-floor units |
– Gate malfunctions and pet waste problems in shared areas – Construction projects disrupting amenity access – Premium units come with higher costs; 3-bedroom options range from $2,120 to $4,080 |
This comparison showcases the strengths and challenges of both communities. Cliffs at Barton Creek stands out for its location, offering convenient access to downtown Austin and the Barton Creek Greenbelt. However, it has mixed ratings – 4.8/5 on Apartments.com but only 3.1/5 on ApartmentRatings.com – reflecting varied experiences. Additional costs, like parking fees, and a Walk Score of 50/100 (indicating most errands require a car) are also factors to consider.
"The Cliffs at Barton Creek is a great place to live. The staff and maintenance are very nice and they know your name. The apartments are updated and have an open flow concept that is easy to live in." [Apartments.com, 26]
Sedona Springs, on the other hand, receives consistent praise for its maintenance services and peaceful environment. While it might lack the same central location as Cliffs at Barton Creek, its greenbelt setting and thoughtful upgrades make it a strong contender.
Conclusion
When compared to Monterey Ranch, Sedona Springs, and Chevy Chase, Cliffs at Barton Creek stands out with a blend of advantages that are hard to overlook. Its prime location is a major highlight, offering breathtaking views of downtown Austin from its clifftop perch, while also providing easy access to Barton Creek Square Mall. This rare combination of natural beauty and urban convenience is a standout feature in the area.
The pricing reflects its premium appeal. One-bedroom apartments range from $1,338 to $2,669, while two-bedroom units fall between $1,981 and $3,252. While these rates are higher than some alternatives, they align with the unique offerings of the property, making the investment worthwhile for those seeking a high-end living experience.
Resident feedback further underscores the appeal of Cliffs at Barton Creek. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating on Apartments.com, residents consistently highlight the exceptional quality of life here. This speaks to the community’s commitment to providing luxury, personalized service, and a sense of identity – qualities that set it apart from larger, less intimate complexes.
For those who value sophistication, Cliffs at Barton Creek delivers an unmatched mix of stunning views, urban accessibility, and high resident satisfaction. While the pricing reflects its premium nature, the exceptional setting and top-tier amenities offer a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate.
FAQs
What makes Cliffs at Barton Creek a standout choice for apartment living in Southwest Austin?
Cliffs at Barton Creek offers a living experience like no other, combining stunning cliffside views of downtown Austin with direct access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt. These apartments are designed with a modern touch, featuring high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and private patios or balconies that create a cozy yet stylish retreat.
The community is packed with amenities to enhance your lifestyle. Enjoy a resort-style pool, a fully equipped fitness center, a dog park for your furry friends, BBQ and picnic areas for gatherings, and a business center for work needs. The gated community adds an extra layer of security, creating a peaceful and private environment.
Located near Barton Square Mall, local parks, and scenic nature trails, Cliffs at Barton Creek is ideal for those who want the convenience of city life while staying close to outdoor adventures. Residents often highlight the beautifully maintained grounds and the calm, serene atmosphere as standout features that make this community truly special.
What makes the location of Cliffs at Barton Creek convenient for accessing downtown Austin and nearby attractions?
The Cliffs at Barton Creek: Where City Life Meets Nature
Just 6.2 miles from downtown Austin, The Cliffs at Barton Creek offers a prime location that makes getting to the city’s lively dining, shopping, and entertainment scene a breeze. But what truly sets this spot apart is its seamless connection to the outdoors. Residents have direct access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt, known for its picturesque hiking and biking trails. Plus, local favorites like Zilker Park and the Omni Barton Creek Resort are just a short distance away.
This rare combination of urban accessibility and outdoor adventure creates a perfect setting for those who crave both the energy of city life and the tranquility of nature.
What should potential residents know about pricing and fees at Cliffs at Barton Creek?
Rental Costs at Cliffs at Barton Creek
At Cliffs at Barton Creek, monthly rents range from $1,338 to $3,252, depending on the size and layout of the apartment. On top of rent, there are a few additional fees to consider:
- Security deposit: $150 to $350
- Application fee: $75
- One-time administrative fee: $250
For pet owners, there’s a $300 non-refundable pet fee per pet and a $15 monthly pet rent.
It’s worth noting that some units might come with extra fees, and pricing or availability can change. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to check directly with the property management team.
