Austin’s Top 10 Most Walkable Apartments

Looking for a walkable apartment in Austin? Here’s what you need to know:

• Austin ranks 33rd in the US for walkability (Walk Score: 40/100)
• Downtown Austin is the most walkable area (Walk Score: 92)
• Top walkable neighborhoods: West University, South Congress, East Cesar Chavez, Mueller

The 10 most walkable apartments in Austin:

1. The Catherine (Walk Score: 82)
2. Northshore (Walk Score: 95)
3. Residences at Saltillo
4. The Triangle
5. Seven East (Walk Score: 85)
6. The Arnold
7. The Independent (Walk Score: 98)
8. AMLI on 2nd
9. The Bowie (Walk Score: 95)
10. Cole Apartments

Quick comparison:

Tips for finding a walkable apartment:

• Explore neighborhoods on foot
• Check commute times during rush hour
• Consider summer heat and AC
• Budget 30-35% of income for rent
• Use Walk Scores to compare areas
• Read lease agreements carefully

Remember: Walkable apartments often cost more but can save on transportation and offer a vibrant urban lifestyle.

The Catherine

The Catherine isn’t just another apartment complex. It’s a slice of urban paradise in Downtown Austin.

Picture this: You’re living at 214 Barton Springs Rd. Lady Bird Lake? It’s your backyard. South Congress and 2nd Street District? They’re your playground.

Here’s what makes The Catherine special:

It’s a walker’s dream. With a Walk Score of 82, you can ditch your car keys. Need a bite to eat? The closest restaurant is just 0.4 miles away. Craving Italian or French? They’re within 0.6 miles.

But wait, there’s more. The Catherine is a cyclist’s heaven too. Its Bike Score is a whopping 97. Bike lanes and paths are everywhere, making your eco-friendly commute a breeze.

Nature lover? You’ve got five parks within 2.1 miles. Culture vulture? Museums, galleries, and music venues are just a stroll away.

Now, let’s talk apartments. The Catherine offers studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units. Prices? They range from $1,975 to $5,995 per month. Each apartment comes loaded with modern perks like air conditioning, ceiling fans, hardwood floors, and closets big enough to get lost in.

Christopher Commercial Inc., the folks running the show, put it this way:

“The Catherine is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to experience luxury living in a vibrant and dynamic city.”

In other words? If you want to live in the heart of Austin’s action without sacrificing comfort, The Catherine’s got you covered.

2. Northshore

Northshore isn’t just another apartment complex. It’s your ticket to the heart of Austin’s urban playground.

Picture this: You’re at 110 San Antonio Street, smack in the middle of downtown Austin. With a Walk Score of 95, you’re not just living in the city – you’re part of it.

Want groceries? Trader Joe’s is practically your pantry, just 0.06 miles away. Whole Foods? A quick 0.19-mile stroll. Craving tacos? Torchy’s is calling your name, only 0.12 miles from your front door.

But Northshore isn’t all concrete jungle. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is your backyard, offering a slice of nature along Lady Bird Lake. And when you’re in the mood for some tunes, the Moody Theater is just a short walk away.

Don’t feel like walking? No problem. With a Transit Score of 66 and a Bike Score of 85, you’ve got options.

Inside Northshore, you’ll find everything from cozy one-bedrooms to swanky penthouses. And that 8th-floor pool deck? It’s your personal viewing platform for Hill Country and Lady Bird Lake.

Now, let’s talk real. Some residents have mentioned maintenance issues and signs of wear and tear. As one long-timer put it:

“The building is OLD – when I first moved here 8 years ago it was the premier building downtown, however that is no longer the case.”

But here’s the kicker – even with these hiccups, people can’t stop raving about the location. One resident summed it up:

“Location – best rental location downtown.”

So, if you’re all about that urban life and don’t mind potentially dealing with a few maintenance headaches, Northshore might just be your perfect Austin launchpad. Just make sure to give everything a good once-over before you sign on the dotted line.

3. Residences at Saltillo

Residences at Saltillo is changing the game in East Austin. This Willow Bridge-managed community is turning six blocks of 5th Street into a walker’s dream.

Located at 1211 E 5th St, it’s got everything you need within reach. Three shopping centers? Just a 5-minute walk away. That’s 0.3 miles of retail therapy at your fingertips.

But it’s not all about shopping. Foodies, listen up. On September 8, 2023, Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden opened its second spot right in Plaza Saltillo. It’s not your average coffee joint. It’s a full-service bar, all-day taqueria, and community hangout rolled into one. With an outdoor patio, rooftop deck, and even a pond, it’s the perfect place to chill after a short stroll from your apartment.

Nature lovers, you’re covered too. Five parks within 3.1 miles, including Boggy Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake. And if you’re into biking, you’re in for a treat. The area’s a “biker’s paradise” with plenty of lanes and paths to explore.

What really makes Residences at Saltillo stand out? The on-site CapMetro Rail Station. It makes getting around town a breeze.

One resident put it this way:

“The neighborhood is the best part about living here. Having Whole Foods, Target, coffee shops, restaurants, and bars all within walking distance creates the nicest community feel.”

Speaking of Whole Foods, it’s right there, along with seven other restaurants in the development. Talk about having it all at your doorstep!

Now, let’s talk apartments. Residences at Saltillo has options for different needs and budgets:

Residences at Saltillo isn’t just a place to live. It’s a lifestyle choice for those who want to be in the heart of Austin’s urban scene, with everything they need just a short walk away.

4. The Triangle Residences

The Triangle Residences in Central Austin is a poster child for urban living done right. Built in 2006 and recently spruced up, this apartment community is where city convenience meets home comfort.

With 529 units across 4 floors, The Triangle caters to all sorts of lifestyles. Looking for a cozy studio? They’ve got it. Need a spacious 3-bedroom? No problem. Apartments range from 612 to 3,135 square feet, with rents starting at $1,475 and topping out at $4,829 monthly.

But here’s the kicker: The Triangle isn’t just about the apartments. It’s part of a bigger 120,000-square-foot development packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Imagine rolling out of bed and having a grocery store, coffee shop, and yoga studio right at your doorstep. It’s not just convenient – it’s a whole new way of living.

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what one happy resident had to say:

“The neighborhood is incredible- having a grocery store, a coffee shop, a yoga studio, and so many restaurants around the complex is great.”

And The Triangle doesn’t stop at its own borders. With a TransitScore of 57, you’ve got decent public transport options, including 3 transit stops within a 34.9-mile radius. Prefer pedal power? The area’s bike-friendly too, with paths and lanes for two-wheeled adventures.

Nature more your thing? The Triangle’s got you covered with green spaces, including Triangle Commons Park. Picture a paved jogging trail circling a peaceful pond – perfect for your morning run or evening stroll.

For the academic crowd, The Triangle is just a 6-minute drive from the University of Texas at Austin. Talk about a sweet spot between campus life and city living.

But wait, there’s more. The Triangle comes loaded with perks:

• Multiple swimming pools (because one is never enough)
• A fitness center that’ll make your gym membership jealous
• A dog park for your four-legged friends
• BBQ areas for when you’re feeling social

In a nutshell, The Triangle Residences is like a mini-city. It’s not just a place to live – it’s a place to live, work, play, and everything in between. All within walking distance of your front door.

Sure, it might not have the highest Walk Score in Austin. But with its smart design and mix of amenities, The Triangle more than makes up for it. If you’re after a walkable lifestyle without sacrificing modern comforts, The Triangle might just be your perfect match in Austin’s rental jungle.

5. Seven East

Seven East is an urban oasis in East Austin’s Plaza Saltillo area. Built in 2015, this modern apartment complex is perfect for those who love to explore on foot.

With a Walk Score of 85 and a Bike Score of 91, Seven East puts you right in the middle of the action. Step out your door and find everything you need nearby. Three shopping centers? Just a 12-minute walk away.

But it’s not all about shopping. Seven East is surrounded by tons of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. As one renter put it:

“You can walk to so many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, or even downtown.”

Love the outdoors? You’re in luck. Five parks, including Boggy Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake, are within 4.3 miles. Perfect for weekend picnics or morning jogs.

Seven East isn’t just about location. The community itself is packed with cool features. Check out the downtown views from the rooftop deck, take a dip in the resort-style pool, or hit the fully-equipped gym.

The apartments? Spacious 1 and 2-bedroom layouts ranging from 588 to 1,262 square feet. Each comes with in-home washers and dryers – no more trips to the laundromat!

Here’s a quick look at what Seven East offers:

Need public transit? No problem. Seven East is right near a Capital MetroRail station, making downtown trips a breeze.

Got pets? Seven East is pet-friendly, with its own pet park. Plus, with nearby parks and trails, your furry friend will have plenty of space to run around.

Seven East isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle. If you want to be in the heart of Austin’s urban scene, this is your spot. Whether you’re a young professional, a couple, or anyone in between, Seven East is your perfect launchpad for exploring East Austin – all just steps from your front door.

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6. The Arnold

The Arnold isn’t just another apartment complex. It’s a gateway to East Austin’s vibrant urban scene.

Nestled at 1621 E 6th St, this Greystar-managed property puts you smack in the middle of a walker’s paradise. How close? We’re talking three shopping centers within a 10-minute stroll. But that’s just the start.

East Austin is a food lover’s playground, and The Arnold drops you right in the center of it. Within a 5-minute walk, you’ve got:

• Mexican and Southwestern at 1707 E 6th St
• Thai at 1701 E 6th St
• Japanese-American fusion at 1600 E 6th St Suite B

And if you’re up for a slightly longer stroll (we’re talking 0.2 miles), your taste buds can explore:

• Pizza and Italian at 1802 East 6th Street
• Cajun, Creole, and Vietnamese at 1813 E 6th St Suite C
• American at 1211 East 5th Street Ste 150
• Mexican-Japanese seafood fusion at 1812 E 6th St

One resident put it perfectly:

“The Arnold is in the most ideal location on the Eastside. The convenience to everything around it is what makes living here so comfortable.”

But it’s not all about urban conveniences. Nature lovers, you’re covered too. Boggy Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake are just a hop and a skip away. Perfect for those weekend picnics or morning jogs.

Need to venture further? No sweat. The Arnold sits right next to the Metro Rail/Plaza Saltillo station. Public transport? Sorted.

Now, let’s talk apartments:

Each unit comes packed with modern amenities. And the community perks? Think rooftop terrace with downtown views and a wellness center.

The Arnold isn’t just a place to live. It’s a lifestyle choice. It’s for those who want to dive headfirst into Austin’s urban scene, with everything they need just a stone’s throw away. Whether you’re climbing the career ladder, a food enthusiast, or someone who loves the buzz of city living, The Arnold offers more than just an apartment. It’s your ticket to the heart of East Austin’s walkable wonderland.

7. The Independent

The Independent isn’t just another Austin high-rise. It’s a 58-story giant that’s changing how people live downtown.

Located in the Market District, this building is a walker’s dream. It scored 98 out of 100 on the Walk Score scale. That’s as close to perfect as you can get.

Step outside and you’re in the middle of everything:

• Want to go for a run? The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is 4 minutes away.
• Need groceries? Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are right there.

But The Independent isn’t just about location. It’s a whole new way of living.

Built in 2019, it has 373 units. You can choose from cozy one-bedrooms to huge four-bedroom spaces. There’s something for everyone.

What makes this place special? It’s all about community. There are two full floors of amenities:

• A heated infinity-edge pool
• An outdoor terrace for grilling
• A private movie theater

And that’s just the start. In total, there’s over 20,000 square feet of shared space.

Like bikes? The Independent’s got you covered. With a Bike Score of 91, it’s perfect for cyclists. There are bike trails all around and plenty of storage in the building.

One resident said:

“You can walk to everything. The Ann and Roy Walk and Bike Trail, Lady Bird Lake, the Austin Central Library – it’s all right there.”

Don’t worry about getting around town, either. The Transit Score is 68, so you’ve got options.

The Independent isn’t just a place to live. It’s a gateway to Austin’s urban scene. Galleries, museums, nightlife – it’s all a short walk away.

In a city where cars are king, The Independent is different. It’s for people who want to experience Austin on foot, without giving up comfort or style.

8. AMLI on 2nd

AMLI on 2nd is downtown Austin living at its finest. Smack in the middle of the 2nd Street District, this high-rise puts you where the action is.

At 201 Lavaca St, AMLI on 2nd isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle. The 2nd Street District? It’s Austin’s urban playground. Shopping, dining, entertainment – it’s all here.

Step out of your apartment and boom – you’re in the thick of it. Tree-lined streets, busy sidewalks, and downtown energy hit you right away.

Why is AMLI on 2nd a walker’s dream? Let’s break it down:

• Shopping’s a breeze. From small boutiques to big-name stores, it’s all a short walk away.
• Food? Oh boy. The 2nd Street District is a food lover’s paradise. Quick bites or fancy dinners – take your pick.
• Entertainment’s covered too. The Moody Theater, home of “Austin City Limits”, is right there. Live music, anyone?

But AMLI on 2nd isn’t just about location. The building itself? Pretty sweet. You’ve got 1 and 2-bedroom apartments with hardwood floors and private balconies. After a day of walking around Austin, cool off in the pool or chill on your balcony with those downtown views.

Like to mix up how you get around? AMLI on 2nd has you covered. It’s super walkable, sure, but it’s also great for bikes. And if you need to go further? Public transport’s right there.

Now, let’s talk money. Apartments start at $2,474 a month. Not cheap, but remember – you’re paying for location, luxury, and the option to ditch your car.

Here’s a cool thing about AMLI on 2nd: flexible leases. You can sign up for anywhere from 3 to 13 months. Perfect if you want to try downtown living without a long-term commitment.

Got pets? No problem. AMLI on 2nd is pet-friendly. Your furry buddies can enjoy nearby green spaces, including Lady Bird Lake – just a short walk away.

9. The Bowie

The Bowie isn’t just another high-rise in Austin. It’s a 311 Bowie Street landmark that’s changing the game for downtown living.

Why? It’s all about location, location, location.

With a Walk Score of 95, The Bowie puts you smack in the middle of Austin’s urban playground. Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what one happy resident had to say:

“Excellent location!! Very walkable neighborhood and the residents are really nice and fun!”

But there’s more to The Bowie than just its prime spot. Let’s dive in:

Whole Foods Next Door: Forget long grocery runs. Whole Foods is literally across the street. Fresh produce? Check. Last-minute dinner ingredients? Double-check.

Nature Meets City: Think you can’t have green spaces downtown? Think again. The Bowie sits right next to Shoal Creek and the Hike and Bike Trail. Morning jogs just got a whole lot prettier.

Ditch the Car: With a Transit Score of 66 and a Bike Score of 93, you might just forget you own a car. There’s even a B-cycle Station nearby for quick bike rentals.

But The Bowie isn’t just about where it is. It’s about how you live. Built in 2015, this mixed-use building offers 358 apartments ranging from 692 to 1317 square feet. Prices start at $2,845 for a 1-bedroom and top out at $3,795 for the bigger units.

Now, let’s talk perks. The Bowie doesn’t do “standard” amenities:

• Rooftop infinity pool with city views? Check.
• Precor-equipped fitness center? You bet.
• Dog park and grooming room? Yep.
• Free community bikes, paddle boards, and kayaks? Absolutely.

It’s like living in a resort that’s smack in the middle of Austin.

As RPM Living, the property manager, puts it:

“Experience the high rise lifestyle unlike any other in Austin, Texas.”

The Bowie isn’t just a place to live. It’s a launchpad for everything Austin has to offer. Whether you’re climbing the career ladder or just love city life with a side of nature, The Bowie serves it up on a silver platter. All this, in one of Austin’s most walkable spots.

10. Cole Apartments

Cole Apartments sits at 300 S Lamar Blvd, right in Austin’s Zilker neighborhood. Built in 2009, this spot is all about walkability.

With a TransitScore of 60, you’ve got options. But let’s face it – you’re here to walk. And boy, can you walk. Step outside, and you’re smack in the middle of one of Austin’s busiest areas.

Hungry? You’re in the right place. Zilker is packed with places to eat and drink. Want to grab a bite at a local favorite? Shady Grove and Chuy’s are just a stone’s throw away. Need to stock up? Whole Foods isn’t far.

Love the outdoors? You’re set. Zilker Park, Austin’s green crown jewel, is basically your backyard. And it’s not alone – five parks, including Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Zilker Botanical Garden, are within 2.3 miles.

One resident summed it up:

“The location is unbeatable. I can walk to Barton Springs for a swim, hit up a food truck for lunch, and end the day with a concert at Auditorium Shores – all without touching my car keys.”

But Cole Apartments isn’t just about where it is. It’s about how you live. Here’s what you get:

Each apartment has its own washer and dryer, and big living areas for when you need a break from all that walking.

Community perks? They’ve got those too. There’s a fitness center for rainy days, a pool for sunny ones, and walking/biking trails for whenever you feel like it.

Cole Apartments isn’t just a place to crash – it’s your starting point for experiencing Austin on foot. Whether you’re into food, nature, or just the buzz of city life, Cole puts it all within reach. It’s not just an apartment; it’s your ticket to Austin’s walkable Zilker neighborhood.

Quick Comparison of All Apartments

Let’s compare Austin’s top 10 most walkable apartments side-by-side. This breakdown will help you find the best fit for your urban lifestyle.

These apartments offer prime locations and cool amenities, but they’re not cheap. The average rent for luxury apartments in Austin is about $2,684 per month. That’s way higher than the city’s overall average of $1,441 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Jake Wegmann, Associate Professor of Community and Regional Planning, has some advice:

“It’s a good time to look for an apartment, and people who do (search for one) should bargain (and) should ask a lot of questions.”

This makes sense, especially since Austin’s rent prices have dropped 9.3% in the past year – the biggest drop in the country.

When you’re looking at these apartments, remember that walkability isn’t just about convenience. It’s about lifestyle and maybe even saving some cash. Ryan Rodenbeck points out:

“Living in one of the walkable neighborhoods in Austin can help you become not just healthier, but also saves you some cash.”

By choosing a walkable apartment, you might be able to ditch your car. That could save you thousands on maintenance and gas. Plus, you’ll be part of Austin’s urban living trend, joining the buzzing street life that’s making Austin one of the most walkable cities in the U.S.

Whether you’re a student who wants to be close to UT Austin, a young professional looking to be in the heart of downtown, or someone who just loves having everything at their doorstep, these apartments offer options for different tastes and budgets.

Final Tips

Searching for a walkable apartment in Austin? Here’s what you need to know:

Get out there and explore. Spend a weekend walking around neighborhoods you like. Pop into local cafes, check out the parks, and soak up the vibe. You’ll learn things you can’t get from a website.

Don’t forget about traffic. Austin’s roads can be a nightmare. Before you sign anything, test your commute during rush hour. As Pauly Presley Realty Team puts it:

“What looks like a short 10-mile drive on a map can turn into a 45-minute ordeal during Austin’s notorious rush hour.”

Think about the heat. Austin summers are HOT. Make sure your potential apartment has good AC. You’ll thank yourself when it’s 98°F in August.

Watch your wallet. Austin’s rental market is tough. Plan to spend 30-35% of your income on rent. Right now, you’re looking at about $1,190 for a one-bedroom and $1,510 for a two-bedroom.

Use Walk Scores. They’re a great tool to find walkable neighborhoods. Downtown Austin scores 92, and so do West University and Bouldin Creek.

Know what matters to you. Want to be near grocery stores? Parks? Public transit? Some apartments, like The Bowie, are right next to Whole Foods. Others, like Cole Apartments, put you a stone’s throw from Zilker Park.

Read the fine print. Before you sign, know what you’re getting into. Ask about rent hikes, extra fees, and utility costs. It’ll save you headaches later.