Looking for a modern apartment in Austin’s South Shore District? Bell Lakeshore Apartments offers a prime location near Lady Bird Lake, Oracle HQ, and downtown Austin. Built in 2017, this mid-rise community features 339 units designed for professionals seeking convenience, outdoor access, and work-from-home amenities. Here’s a quick look at the highlights:
- Location: Across from Oracle HQ, 0.6 miles from Lady Bird Lake, and a 10-minute drive to downtown Austin.
- Amenities: Two pools (resort-style and lap), rooftop terrace with city views, 24-hour fitness center, pet spa, and kayak/bike storage.
- Floor Plans: 1-bedroom units (528–836 sq. ft., starting at $1,395/month) and 2-bedroom units (1,008–1,250 sq. ft., starting at $1,990/month).
- Work-Friendly Features: Built-in desks, bookcases, 24-hour Wi-Fi café, and a business center.
- Pet-Friendly: Fenced dog park, pet spa, and optional private yards in select units.
While Bell Lakeshore offers competitive pricing and strong amenities, some trade-offs include additional monthly fees and reports of occasional maintenance issues. Perfect for professionals, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts, this community balances comfort, location, and functionality.
Building Details
Bell Lakeshore is a five-story mid-rise building completed in 2017, offering 339 residential units. Located in the East Riverside neighborhood, it sits directly across from Oracle Headquarters. With ceiling heights ranging from 9 to 12 feet, the building’s design creates a spacious and open feel, perfectly complementing its modern aesthetic.
The interiors are designed for contemporary urban living, featuring open-concept layouts. Residents enjoy upscale finishes such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, 42-inch wood cabinetry, and wood-style flooring throughout the living areas. Some units include additional touches like kitchen islands with pendant lighting, dual vanities in bathrooms, and soaking tubs with custom tile work. These thoughtful details cater to professionals seeking a versatile and stylish home environment.
For those working remotely, Bell Lakeshore offers built-in desks and bookcases in many units, making it easier to maintain a productive lifestyle at home. The apartments also include Nest Thermostats, and select units feature SMART floor plan options. Large windows allow for abundant natural light, while oversized private balconies or patios provide an inviting outdoor extension to the living space.
The building’s amenities offer a mix of practicality and leisure. A multi-level covered parking garage with elevator access ensures convenience, while some ground-floor units even feature private yards – a rare perk in mid-rise living. The rooftop Sky Lounge, with its panoramic views of downtown Austin, adds a touch of luxury and serves as a standout feature of the property.
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Amenities and Features
Pool and Outdoor Spaces
Bell Lakeshore boasts two pools: a resort-style pool complete with cabanas for relaxing and a lap pool for those who want to get in a workout. The rooftop terrace is a standout feature, offering breathtaking views of downtown Austin – perfect for sipping coffee in the morning or hosting an evening get-together. Adding to the community vibe, the resident lounge overlooks the pool area, creating a welcoming social space. For more casual fun, the clubhouse includes a game room.
Fitness and Pet Facilities
The 24-hour, multi-level fitness center caters to all schedules, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl. For outdoor enthusiasts, the property includes secured storage for bikes and kayaks, a thoughtful addition given its proximity to the lake’s boardwalk and trails. Pet owners are also well taken care of, with an on-site pet spa for grooming and a private, fenced pet park where dogs can safely enjoy off-leash playtime.
Daily Conveniences
Life at Bell Lakeshore is designed to make everyday tasks easier. Services like door-to-door valet trash, recycling, and dry cleaning keep things simple, while a resident coffee bar and a 24-hour Wi-Fi café provide spaces to recharge or work. The community also ensures safety and ease with on-site management, gated entry, secure parking, package receiving, and emergency maintenance. The multi-level covered parking garage offers both assigned and unassigned spaces, all with elevator access. For professionals, the executive business center features a conference room, making it easy to handle work without leaving home.
With a focus on relaxation, fitness, and practical living, Bell Lakeshore has plenty to offer. Up next, take a closer look at its well-designed floor plans.
Floor Plans and Layouts
Bell Lakeshore offers a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans to cater to different lifestyles. The community features six one-bedroom options, ranging from 528 to 836 sq. ft., and five two-bedroom layouts, spanning 1,008 to 1,250 sq. ft. The smallest unit, the A1A/A1B-SMART, measures 529 sq. ft., while the largest one-bedroom, the A1I, provides 836 sq. ft. For two-bedroom apartments, sizes begin at 1,008 sq. ft. with the B2A plan and go up to 1,250 sq. ft. with the B2E layout.
Every unit is designed to maximize space and light, featuring 9- to 12-foot ceilings that create an open, airy atmosphere. Kitchens are a focal point, equipped with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, kitchen islands, and 42-inch wood cabinetry in either white or espresso finishes. Other standard features include wood-style flooring, pendant lighting, and two-inch faux wood blinds.
Many apartments include built-in bookcases and desks, offering functional workspace without compromising the living area. Bathrooms in select units feature dual vanities, along with either a soaking tub with custom tile or a separate walk-in shower. Storage is also well-considered, with walk-in closets, large pantries, and in-unit washers and dryers.
For climate control, all units come with Nest thermostats, while certain floor plans are designated as "SMART" units, incorporating additional energy-efficient features. Outdoor spaces are tailored to individual preferences, with options including a personal balcony, oversized patio, or private yard, depending on the specific layout and building location.
Below is a summary of the available floor plans and pricing:
| Unit Type | Floor Plans | Square Footage | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | A1A through A1I (6 options) | 528 – 836 sq. ft. | $1,395 – $2,426 |
| 2 Bedroom | B2A through B2E (5 options) | 1,008 – 1,250 sq. ft. | $1,990 – $3,985 |
Pricing Comparison with Nearby Communities
Bell Lakeshore Apartments vs Nearby Austin Communities Pricing Comparison
Current Rent Prices
Bell Lakeshore offers competitive pricing within Austin’s rental market as of March 2026. One-bedroom apartments start at $1,395, which is 3% lower than the Austin average of $1,439 for similar units. Meanwhile, two-bedroom units are available starting at $1,990.
Applicants need to meet a household income requirement of at least 2.25 times the monthly rent and provide a security deposit starting at $400. These terms align with standard rental practices in Austin, making Bell Lakeshore an appealing option for professionals looking for quality housing in the city’s thriving market.
Nearby Apartment Pricing
To better understand Bell Lakeshore’s pricing, here’s a comparison with nearby communities:
| Property Name | 1-Bedroom Starting Rent | 2-Bedroom Starting Rent | Square Footage Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bell Lakeshore | $1,395 | $1,990 | 528 – 1,250 sq. ft. |
| Bell South Shore | $1,311 | $1,499 | 596 – 1,646 sq. ft. |
| 704 | $999 | $999+ | 408 – 1,461 sq. ft. |
| 422 At The Lake | $1,659 | $1,659+ | 497 – 1,365 sq. ft. |
| 1155 Barton Springs | $2,627 | $2,627+ | 640 – 2,775 sq. ft. |
Bell Lakeshore positions itself as a mid-to-high-tier option in Austin’s rental market. While properties like 704 offer lower starting rents at $999, they may lack comparable amenities. On the other hand, luxury communities such as 1155 Barton Springs charge over $2,600 for a one-bedroom unit, catering to those seeking ultra-premium living.
With its modern design and upscale amenities, Bell Lakeshore strikes a balance between affordability and quality, standing out as a strong choice among both budget-friendly and high-end options.
Living in the Area
Outdoor Activities Nearby
Just 0.6 miles from Lady Bird Lake, this location offers easy access to the scenic Boardwalk Trail – perfect for morning jogs, kayaking adventures, or leisurely evening walks. With enclosed storage available for kayaks and bikes, you can enjoy the lake and its connected trail system without any hassle.
For more outdoor fun, you’re close to Auditorium Shores, Zilker Park, and Butler Park, some of Austin’s most beloved recreational spots. If you’re in the mood for quieter green spaces, the Boggy Creek Greenbelt is just 2.5 miles away (a quick 5-minute drive), while the Blunn Creek Nature Preserve offers hiking trails within a 4.7-mile radius.
And it’s not just about nature – the area also boasts a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Living in the South Shore District places you at the heart of Austin’s entertainment scene. South Congress Avenue is within walking distance, offering iconic shopping, live music venues, and some of the city’s best dining spots.
For even more options, Downtown Austin, Rainey Street, and the lively East Austin music venues are all just a 10-minute drive away, making it easy to catch a weeknight concert or enjoy a weekend out. Everyday conveniences are also nearby, with three shopping centers – Riverside Place Shopping Center (0.5 miles), Riverside Plaza (0.7 miles), and Parke Green (0.7 miles) – all within a short 13-minute walk. Plus, local favorites like The Buzz Mill and food truck pop-ups along East Riverside Drive bring casual dining right to your doorstep. The combination of outdoor activities and urban perks makes this area a fantastic place to call home.
Pet-Friendly Environment
This community is designed with pet owners in mind, offering thoughtful amenities to make life easier for you and your furry friends. A dedicated pet spa ensures grooming is convenient, while a fenced pet park provides a safe space for off-leash play. Some units even include private yards, giving pets direct outdoor access. With Lady Bird Lake and nearby trails just a short walk away, your daily dog walks can be as varied and scenic as you like. On-site amenities take care of grooming and socialization, so you don’t have to travel across town to meet your pet’s needs.
Pros and Cons
Bell Lakeshore combines a fantastic location and a range of amenities with some notable trade-offs.
Its proximity to the lake enhances outdoor living opportunities, though it comes with the downside of heavier traffic and occasional noise. The community holds a 4.0/5 rating on Google based on 220 reviews, indicating overall satisfaction among residents. Features like in-unit workspaces and smart home technology add a level of convenience. However, there are additional monthly fees to consider: $35 for valet trash, $20 for amenities, $5 for pest control, and $10 for general garage parking. Reserved parking spaces are available for $50/month.
Being located across from Oracle HQ means residents may experience higher traffic levels and intermittent construction noise. Some have also reported issues with elevator and gate reliability. For pet owners, amenities like the pet spa and fenced park are highlights, but managing pet waste has been a recurring concern. While walkability and bikeability are strong, with scores of 74 and 85 respectively, the transit score is only rated as "Good", falling short of excellence. Additionally, Austin’s traffic congestion – causing drivers to lose an average of 64 hours annually – can make commuting during peak hours a challenge.
Comparison Table
Below is a quick overview of the benefits and drawbacks:
| Feature | Advantage | Drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 0.6 miles to Lady Bird Lake; near Oracle HQ | High traffic; construction and HQ-related noise |
| Amenities | Rooftop terrace, lap pool, kayak storage | Mandatory monthly fees totaling $70 |
| Work-from-Home | Built-in desks, bookcases, Nest thermostats | Reports of elevator and gate malfunctions |
| Parking | Covered garage; reserved parking available | General parking costs $10/month; reserved $50/month |
| Pet-Friendliness | On-site pet spa, fenced pet park | Ongoing pet waste management issues |
| Walkability | Walk Score: 74; Bike Score: 85 | Transit Score rated only as "Good" |
This breakdown provides a balanced view of what to expect, helping you weigh the pros and cons effectively.
Who Should Live Here
Bell Lakeshore Apartments offers something for nearly everyone, tailoring its amenities to fit a variety of lifestyles.
Remote and hybrid workers will find the setup ideal, with built-in desks and bookcases in units, plus access to a 24-hour Wi-Fi café, an executive business center, and a resident coffee bar. These features make it easy to balance work and relaxation seamlessly.
Tech professionals, especially those working at Oracle, will appreciate the location – right across from Oracle Headquarters. The apartments also cater to a tech-savvy lifestyle with smart Nest thermostats and sleek, modern finishes that align with a forward-thinking mindset.
Outdoor lovers and fitness enthusiasts have plenty to enjoy here. The Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk is just 0.6 miles away, and the community provides bike and kayak storage, a multi-level 24-hour gym, and even a dedicated lap pool. With a Bike Score of 85, it’s easy to access nearby trails and green spaces.
Pet owners are also well cared for, with perks like a private fenced pet park and an on-site pet spa. Some floor plans even include optional private yards. Pet-related fees include a $250 deposit, a one-time $250 fee, and monthly rent ranging from $25 to $35.
Entertainment seekers will love the location. East Austin’s music venues, Rainey Street’s lively bars, and South Congress’s dining spots are all within a 10-minute drive. The area’s vibrant energy makes it perfect for those who enjoy nightlife and dining out.
Lastly, frequent travelers and urban commuters will benefit from the short distance to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and Downtown Austin. Both are just minutes away, offering convenience for those always on the move.
Similar Apartments in the Area
If you’re considering alternatives to Bell Lakeshore in the South Shore and Riverside neighborhoods, there are several apartment communities that offer a blend of amenities, location perks, and pricing options. Here’s a quick overview of some nearby options to help you make an informed choice.
Link Apartments
Nestled in Riverside, close to Lady Bird Lake and downtown Austin, Link Apartments cater to professionals with features like a fitness center and pool. While the amenities are solid, they don’t quite match the premium offerings found at Bell Lakeshore. However, the studio pricing is quite competitive, making it an attractive option for those seeking entry-level apartments in the area.
Warren House
Warren House is a great choice for pet owners and outdoor lovers. Although it’s located a bit farther from Lady Bird Lake, it still offers decent access to local boardwalks and trails. The community stands out with pet-friendly perks, including a dog park. Plus, the rent tends to be more budget-friendly, which could make it appealing if affordability is a priority.
South Congress Apartments
The South Congress corridor offers a unique urban vibe, with apartments that prioritize walkability and proximity to Austin’s bustling dining, shopping, and entertainment scene. While these apartments don’t have direct access to Lady Bird Lake trails, they make up for it with their prime location near the vibrant SoCo area. Keep in mind, though, that units here often come with higher price tags due to the sought-after location.
Conclusion
Bell Lakeshore Apartments combines convenience and comfort with its prime location near Lady Bird Lake and East Austin’s lively atmosphere. Designed with remote work in mind, the units feature built-in workspaces and modern tech-friendly touches. Plus, being right across from Oracle Headquarters makes it an attractive option for tech professionals looking to cut down on commute times.
For pet owners, the property shines with its on-site amenities and close proximity to the Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk – perfect for walks and outdoor activities. Active residents will also appreciate the secure kayak and bike storage, a multi-level fitness center, and a lap pool, making it easy to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
With rents ranging from approximately $1,395 to $3,985 and a solid 4.1/5 rating from 87 reviews on Apartments.com, the property offers a mix of affordability and quality. Its location – just 10 minutes from downtown Austin and the airport – adds to its appeal. Bell Lakeshore Apartments blends modern living with practical conveniences, making it an excellent choice for professionals seeking pet-friendly homes with robust work-from-home features and access to outdoor recreation.
FAQs
What do the required monthly fees add to my rent?
The monthly fees at Bell Lakeshore Apartments generally include access to several amenities, such as a fitness center, a resort-style pool, a rooftop terrace, a pet spa, a resident lounge, a business center, bike and kayak storage, and parking. These features are designed to elevate your living experience and make the most of your rental investment.
What’s the parking setup, and how much does it cost?
Bell Lakeshore Apartments features a multi-level covered parking garage with reserved spaces available for residents. The cost of parking is already included in the monthly rent, which ranges from about $1,380 to $3,185, depending on the unit.
How strict are the income and move-in requirements?
Bell Lakeshore Apartments adheres to standard rental affordability guidelines. Generally, tenants need to demonstrate that their gross monthly income is sufficient to cover rent. A common rule of thumb is that rent should not exceed 30% of a tenant’s income.
For income-restricted units, eligibility is based on income limits, typically set between 50% and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Applicants are required to provide proof of income – such as pay stubs or tax returns – and must successfully pass both background and credit checks to qualify.