Bluestem at Loyola, located at 8101 Loyola Lane in Northeast Austin, is a newly built apartment community offering modern amenities at competitive prices. Completed in 2024, it features 316 units with one-bedroom apartments starting at $1,314 – 2.77% lower than the Northeast Austin average and 11.37% below the citywide average. Its prime location near Lake Walter E. Long and SH 183 provides easy access to downtown Austin, UT Austin, and the Mueller Farmers Market.
Key Highlights:
- Unit Options: 1-bedroom ($1,314+), 2-bedroom ($1,714+), 3-bedroom ($2,341+)
- Amenities: Pool, fitness center, game room, pet grooming center, in-unit laundry, and private patios/balconies
- Pet Policy: Up to 2 pets/unit; $400 fee + $20 monthly rent/pet
- Resident Rating: 4.7/5 stars from 75 reviews
- Challenges: Reports of car break-ins (addressed with patrol services) and strict quiet hours
For renters prioritizing affordability, modern interiors, and convenient access to Austin hotspots, Bluestem at Loyola is a strong contender.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Bluestem at Loyola | The Vaughan | Alta Wildhorse Ranch |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Price | $1,314 | $1,395 | $1,815 |
| 2-Bedroom Price | $1,714 | $1,802 | $1,874 |
| 3-Bedroom Price | $2,341 | $2,451 | $2,298 |
| Amenities | Pool, gym, pet grooming | Resort-style pool, EV charging | Townhome-style, private garages |
| Resident Rating | 4.7/5 | – | – |
Bluestem at Loyola blends affordability and convenience, making it a top choice in Northeast Austin.
Property Details
Bluestem at Loyola offers a range of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and townhomes, with starting prices that stand out in the Northeast Austin market.
Here’s a breakdown of the current monthly rates:
| Unit Type | Starting Price | Square Footage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,314 | Varies by unit |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,854 | Varies by unit |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,426 | Varies by unit |
Some units are available for as low as $1,243 per month. Alongside its competitive pricing, Bluestem at Loyola features modern interiors that cater to today’s lifestyles.
Interior highlights include:
- Stainless steel appliances
- In-unit laundry facilities
- Private patios or balconies
- Ceiling fans
- Sleek, contemporary finishes
Community amenities add even more value:
- Swimming pool
- Fitness center
- Clubhouse
- Game room
- Dog park
- 24-hour maintenance service
- Parking facilities
The property is pet-friendly too, allowing up to two pets per unit. There’s a one-time fee of $400 and a monthly pet rent of $20 per pet.
Location is another key advantage. Residents enjoy easy access to Lake Walter E. Long, the Mueller Farmers Market, and other popular destinations via SH 183. With the average apartment size in Northeast Austin at 719 square feet, Bluestem at Loyola stands out as a great choice for those seeking modern living with convenient amenities.
1. The Vaughan
The Vaughan, located in the EastVillage development, brings upscale living to Northeast Austin.
Pricing
Here’s a breakdown of starting prices for the luxury units at The Vaughan:
| Unit Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,395 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,802 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,451 |
Amenities
The Vaughan boasts high-end apartment features, including chef’s kitchens with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and 9-foot ceilings. Other highlights include vinyl plank flooring, smart thermostats, and options for private patios or garages in select units.
Residents also gain access to impressive community perks, such as:
- A 24-hour fitness center with a HIIT studio and pickleball court
- A resort-style pool with a Baja shelf and covered lounge area
- EV charging stations
- FETCH package delivery service
Proximity to Key Locations
Nestled in the 425-acre EastVillage, The Vaughan is directly across from Samsung Austin Semiconductor on Parmer Lane and conveniently close to major employers like Dell, National Instruments, and The Home Depot Technology Center.
"If you live there, you can walk to work, you can walk to the restaurants and you can walk to shopping areas. It’s really the only development of this type in the whole northeast section of the city of Austin." – Gordon Reger, president and CEO of Reger Holdings
The community offers 5 miles of hike and bike trails winding through a 150-acre park, along with easy access to the upcoming EastVillage Town Center. This center will feature 375,000 square feet of dining and retail space, all within a master-planned area that integrates 1.5 million square feet of office space.
With its combination of luxury amenities and a prime location, The Vaughan stands out as a top-tier option in Northeast Austin’s rental market.
2. Sentral East Austin
Sentral East Austin, nestled in the heart of East Austin, offers a blend of urban living and modern conveniences. Unlike the more suburban feel of Bluestem at Loyola or The Vaughan, this property caters to those who thrive in a vibrant city environment. Here’s a closer look at its pricing, amenities, and prime location.
Pricing
Here’s a breakdown of starting prices for units at Sentral East Austin:
| Unit Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,323 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,630 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,512 |
For those who qualify, the property also participates in the City of Austin’s Affordable Housing Program.
Amenities
Sentral East Austin boasts a range of modern amenities designed to enhance daily living. Residents enjoy access to a sparkling pool, stylish workstations, flexible gathering areas, and thoughtfully designed interiors with high-end furnishings. The addition of keyless entry systems adds an extra layer of convenience.
Proximity to Key Locations
One of the standout features of this property is its prime location. Residents are just steps away from trendy restaurants, food trucks, and lively bars. The property is located a mere 1.1 miles from the Austin Convention Center and only 6 miles from the airport. Sentral East Austin is also conveniently situated near major tech hubs, including Meta, Google, Oracle, and Apple. The arrival of Tesla’s Giga Texas in 2022 has further boosted development in the area.
Resident Reviews
With a Tripadvisor rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 21 reviews, Sentral East Austin has received glowing feedback. Residents frequently commend the upscale kitchen and bathroom finishes, spacious bedroom layouts, and helpful staff. Many also appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the sense of community fostered through organized activities.
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3. Alta Wildhorse Ranch
Alta Wildhorse Ranch offers townhome-style units designed with privacy in mind – no shared walls here. This property is a standout in Northeast Austin, appealing to those who value personal space and a modern lifestyle.
Pricing
| Unit Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,815 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,874 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,298 |
Amenities
Living at Alta Wildhorse Ranch means enjoying the perks of private, townhome-style residences. The property boasts a two-level fitness center equipped with cardio machines, strength training gear, and a dedicated yoga room.
The community clubhouse spans two levels and includes:
- A game lounge and TV room
- A fully equipped kitchen
- Work-well spaces with reservable private offices
- A conference room for meetings
Each unit is thoughtfully designed with features like:
- Private garages and fenced yards
- Granite countertops
- Stainless steel Energy Star appliances
- Wood-look LVT plank flooring
- Select units include tech upgrades, such as Google Nest thermostats and smart dimmer switches
Proximity to Key Locations
Alta Wildhorse Ranch is conveniently located near various shopping, recreational, and educational spots:
- Shopping: Three shopping centers within 3.4 miles
- Parks: Five parks within 9.7 miles, including Walter E. Long Park
- Healthcare: Cross Creek Hospital, just 7.2 miles away
- Education: Austin Community College, Eastview Campus, a 19-minute drive (11.5 miles)
- Downtown Access: Quick trips to downtown Austin for work or entertainment
This prime location makes it easy for residents to enjoy both convenience and leisure.
Resident Reviews
Residents frequently highlight the private garages, fenced yards, and the bliss of having no shared walls as their favorite features.
Strengths and Limitations
Bluestem at Loyola offers several advantages but also faces a few challenges that potential residents should consider.
Comparative Price Analysis
| Feature | Bluestem at Loyola | The Vaughan | Alta Wildhorse Ranch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting 1-Bed Price | $1,314 | $1,395 | $1,815 |
| Starting 2-Bed Price | $1,714 | $1,802 | $1,874 |
| Starting 3-Bed Price | $2,341 | $2,451 | $2,298 |
| Pet Amenities | Pet grooming center | Standard | Standard |
| Package Solution | Package locker system | Standard | Standard |
| Resident Rating | 4.7/5 stars | – | – |
This comparison highlights Bluestem at Loyola’s strengths in affordability and amenities while also hinting at areas where it competes less directly with alternatives.
Key Strengths
Bluestem at Loyola shines in several areas. Built in 2024, this property combines modern features with competitive pricing. For instance, its one-bedroom units start at $1,314 – lower than The Vaughan at $1,395 and significantly less than Alta Wildhorse Ranch at $1,815. Additionally, Bluestem boasts a strong resident rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on feedback from 75 reviews. Amenities like a pet grooming center and a package locker system further enhance the appeal for tenants looking for convenience and comfort.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its advantages, Bluestem at Loyola is not without its challenges. Residents have reported multiple car break-ins, a concern that management has addressed by introducing a dedicated patrol service:
"Our residents are our top priority, and we’ve recently partnered with a dedicated patrol service to ensure our residents feel comfortable. This service began last week and is part of our ongoing commitment to improving the resident experience." – Bluestem at Loyola Management
Another point of contention for some residents is the "quiet hours" policy, which a few find overly restrictive.
Value Proposition
Bluestem at Loyola strikes a balance between affordability, modern amenities, and thoughtful features like a pet grooming center and package locker system. Compared to competitors like Alta Wildhorse Ranch, which emphasizes townhome-style living, or The Vaughan, with its different pricing structure, Bluestem positions itself as an attractive option for those seeking contemporary, affordable living in Northeast Austin. It’s a compelling choice for renters who prioritize value without compromising on quality.
Final Assessment
Bluestem at Loyola stands out as a solid option for renters in Northeast Austin. Completed in 2024, this community of 316 units strikes a balance between affordability and modern living. Its location near Lake Walter E. Long offers a mix of urban convenience and natural surroundings. With SH 183 providing easy access, residents are just a short drive from downtown Austin, the University of Texas Austin, and the Mueller Farmers Market. This makes Bluestem an attractive choice for those looking for budget-friendly housing without compromising on comfort or location.
Here’s a quick overview of the unit options and pricing:
| Unit Type | Size Range (sq ft) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 855 – 950 | $1,314 – $1,625 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,150 – 1,350 | $1,714 – $2,069 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,500 – 1,812 | $2,341 – $2,620 |
| 2 Bed Townhome | 1,450 | $2,486 |
Move-in costs are reasonable, including a $200 administrative fee, a $50 application fee, and a $500 refundable security deposit. The property also boasts modern amenities like a resort-style pool, open-concept living spaces, a game room, and a pet grooming center, adding extra appeal to potential tenants. As a brand-new development, Bluestem has already earned a promising 4.0/5 rating on Apartments.com, suggesting it has strong potential to grow into a thriving community.
FAQs
What standout amenities does Bluestem at Loyola offer to residents in Northeast Austin?
Bluestem at Loyola boasts a range of amenities that combine comfort with convenience. Residents can unwind by the resort-style pool with a sundeck, challenge friends in the game room equipped with arcade games and shuffleboard, or spend quality time with their pets at the bark park and pet grooming center. To make daily life easier, the property also offers 24-hour emergency maintenance and a secure package locker system for worry-free deliveries.
The apartments are designed with care, featuring stainless steel appliances, open-concept layouts, and private patios or balconies. Modern details like designer faucets and tile backsplashes add a stylish touch. With professional onsite management and thoughtfully crafted interiors, Bluestem at Loyola ensures a comfortable and functional living environment for its residents.
What safety measures does Bluestem at Loyola have in place to prevent car break-ins?
Bluestem at Loyola puts resident safety front and center with a range of measures aimed at reducing car break-ins. Key features include brightly lit parking areas, round-the-clock surveillance cameras, and a gated entry system to limit access to authorized individuals only.
On top of that, the complex carries out regular security patrols to add an extra layer of protection. While many residents value these precautions, some reviews mention that the surrounding neighborhood can occasionally pose challenges. Despite this, Bluestem at Loyola remains committed to creating a secure environment for everyone in its community.
Why is Bluestem at Loyola a great choice for renters seeking affordable housing in Austin?
Bluestem at Loyola is a popular pick for renters in Austin, offering a balance of affordable pricing and modern living features. Studio apartments start at about $1,314, while one-bedroom units are priced around $1,550, making it an appealing option for those keeping an eye on their budget.
Residents have access to a range of amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and community lounge, designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Situated in East Austin, the complex is close to local parks, grocery stores, and major employers, making it a practical choice for those who value easy access to essentials.
Many residents appreciate the welcoming community and the quality of the apartments, though some have mentioned minor maintenance issues. Overall, Bluestem at Loyola offers a mix of affordability, amenities, and a great location, making it a solid choice for renters in Austin.
