Tech Ridge in North Austin is a growing hub for tech professionals, offering convenient access to major employers like Samsung, Dell, and IBM. This area balances modern living with affordability, making it a great alternative to central Austin. With luxury apartments featuring resort-style amenities, smart-home tech, and coworking spaces, renters can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle close to work. The neighborhood also boasts excellent highway access for easy commuting and a variety of shopping options at The Shops at Tech Ridge. While nightlife and walkability are limited, Tech Ridge is ideal for those prioritizing convenience, space, and value in a suburban setting.
Top Apartment Communities in Tech Ridge
Tech Ridge offers six apartment communities, each designed to complement the area’s tech-focused lifestyle. With modern amenities and convenient access to major employers, these communities cater to a range of needs and preferences.
The Kelsey at Scofield Farm
The Kelsey at Scofield Farm is a pet-friendly community equipped with smart-home features. Residents enjoy coworking spaces, a fitness center, a resort-style pool, dog parks, and pet washing stations. Rent options include 1-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,346 to $1,979 (608–792 sq ft) and 2-bedroom units priced between $1,926 and $2,519 (1,008–1,161 sq ft). While studio apartments are not available, its location is a prime choice for employees at Samsung and Dell.
Presidium Tech Ridge
Presidium Tech Ridge offers luxury mid-rise living with sleek interiors and modern conveniences. Amenities include EV charging stations, dog parks, rooftop lounges, a fitness center, and a pool deck. Rent prices span from $1,124 to $2,419, covering studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units. Its location near major employers like the GM Innovation Center and IBM makes it especially appealing to tech professionals.
1900 Parmer
1900 Parmer combines affordability with family-friendly features. Amenities include outdoor grilling areas, walking trails, a fitness center, and playgrounds. Rent options are structured as follows:
- Studios: $1,090 to $1,420 (458–538 sq ft)
- 1-bedroom apartments: $1,255 to $1,700 (633–880 sq ft)
- 2-bedroom units: $1,715 to $2,525
Its accessible location makes it a great fit for families or professionals looking for budget-friendly options.
Progress Tech Ridge
Progress Tech Ridge stands out with its focus on connectivity and modern design. The community features flexible common spaces ideal for both work and socializing, making it a popular choice for early-career tech professionals.
Altair Tech Ridge
Altair Tech Ridge is tailored for hybrid and remote workers, offering amenities that promote both productivity and relaxation. Its thoughtful design ensures a seamless blend of work and leisure, catering to the needs of today’s workforce.
Bridge at Heritage Woods
Bridge at Heritage Woods combines suburban charm with practical amenities at affordable price points. Designed with families and budget-conscious renters in mind, the community prioritizes safety, comfort, and pet-friendly living spaces.
Living in Tech Ridge
The Shops at Tech Ridge is a bustling retail hub, conveniently located along I-35 between Parmer Lane and Center Ridge Drive. Spanning an impressive 504,153 square feet, it offers a mix of anchor stores, junior anchors, specialty shops, and pad sites. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, making it a key destination for shopping and daily essentials. Its presence adds a layer of ease and practicality to life in Tech Ridge, blending convenience with accessibility.
Transportation and Commuting
Tech Ridge stands out as a commuter-friendly area, thanks to its strategic location near major highways that connect residents to Austin’s bustling tech hubs. Positioned at the crossroads of key routes, it offers convenience for professionals navigating the city.
Highway Access
Tech Ridge benefits from excellent highway connectivity:
- Interstate 35 (I-35): This main artery provides a direct north-south route, making downtown Austin reachable in under 20 minutes during off-peak hours. It also connects to other key tech hubs in the region.
- State Highway 130 (SH-130): Just minutes to the east, SH-130 offers a reliable alternative to I-35 during heavy traffic. It’s especially useful for reaching Tesla‘s Gigafactory Texas while avoiding central Austin congestion.
- Parmer Lane: This road not only facilitates smooth traffic flow but also provides direct access to several major tech campuses, making it a vital route for professionals in the area.
These highways ensure quick and efficient commutes, making Tech Ridge an attractive spot for Austin’s tech workforce.
Drive Times to Key Areas
Here’s a snapshot of typical drive times from Tech Ridge to important destinations:
- Downtown Austin: 15–25 minutes during off-peak hours, extending to 35–45 minutes during morning rush via I-35.
- The Domain: A short 10–15 minute drive on I-35 brings residents to this lively shopping and business district.
- Tesla’s Gigafactory Texas: Accessible in about 25–35 minutes via SH-130, offering a straightforward commute.
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: Typically 30–40 minutes away, also via SH-130.
Proximity to Major Employers
Tech Ridge’s location isn’t just about highways – it’s also close to some of Austin’s biggest employers, reducing travel times even further:
- Samsung Austin Semiconductor: Less than 3 miles east on Parmer Lane, reachable in 5–10 minutes by car or even by bike.
- Dell Technologies: Multiple facilities, including a major campus on Parmer Lane, are within a 5-mile radius.
- GM Innovation Center: Just a short drive, usually under 15 minutes.
- IBM Austin Facilities: Typically 10–15 minutes away.
With so many top employers nearby, Tech Ridge offers unparalleled convenience for professionals. The area’s compact layout and proximity to major companies mean residents can enjoy shorter commutes while taking full advantage of everything the neighborhood has to offer.
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Tech Ridge Pros and Cons for Renters
Weighing these factors can help you figure out if this North Austin neighborhood fits your lifestyle and priorities.
Benefits vs Drawbacks
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Newer apartment buildings with modern features and smart home tech | Limited nightlife compared to areas like downtown or East Austin |
| More affordable rents than central Austin | Lower walkability – most errands will require a car |
| Resort-style amenities like pools, gyms, and coworking spaces in many communities | Suburban atmosphere might not appeal to those craving a lively nightlife |
| Convenient for tech workers with short commutes to employers like Samsung, Dell, and IBM | Fewer entertainment options like live music venues or art galleries |
| Easy highway access to I-35 and SH-130 for traveling around Austin | Limited public transit compared to more central neighborhoods |
| Modern shopping and dining at Tech Ridge Center and along Parmer Lane | Less variety in dining compared to Austin’s older neighborhoods |
For renters who value modern design and an easy commute, Tech Ridge stands out as a solid option.
Tech Ridge is a great fit for those prioritizing convenience and contemporary living over the buzz of urban nightlife. Many apartment communities boast high-end finishes and luxurious amenities, all at prices that are often more approachable than those in central Austin.
That said, the area’s suburban vibe can be a mixed bag. While some appreciate the quieter streets and newer infrastructure, others may miss the lively, walkable culture found in neighborhoods like South or East Austin.
Best Fit for Tech Ridge Renters
Tech Ridge is an ideal spot for renters who appreciate modern conveniences, short commutes, and competitive rental rates. It’s particularly suited for professionals who prioritize functionality and practicality over the buzz of nightlife. Let’s dive into how Tech Ridge caters to different types of renters.
For tech professionals and hybrid workers, Tech Ridge offers a lot of value. Many communities in the area feature coworking spaces, business centers, and smart-home technology – all at attractive price points. Early-career professionals in the tech industry benefit from being close to major employers like Samsung, Dell, Tesla, St. David’s, and General Motors. This proximity not only makes commuting easier but also creates opportunities to connect with like-minded neighbors in the same field.
Communities such as Presidium Tech Ridge are tailored to meet the needs of this demographic. They offer coworking spaces, conference rooms, built-in desks, and Alexa-enabled smart-home features. And with rents starting at around $1,083, these apartments are particularly appealing to those just starting their careers.
Remote workers also find Tech Ridge appealing, thanks to its work-friendly amenities. For example, Oxford at Tech Ridge includes a professional business center with complimentary Wi-Fi and high-speed internet. Similarly, Lantower TechRidge provides an executive business center with coworking spaces.
When it comes to lifestyle, Tech Ridge strikes a balance between luxury and affordability. Many communities feature upscale interiors and resort-style amenities but at more accessible rates compared to central Austin.
Outdoor lovers and pet owners will also feel at home in Tech Ridge. The area boasts plenty of green spaces, including parks and walking trails, that add a refreshing touch to urban living. Residents can enjoy creekside trails and nearby parks like Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, Copperfield Park, and Oertli Park. Additionally, properties like Citadel at Tech Ridge include dog parks and electric vehicle charging stations, catering to eco-conscious and pet-friendly lifestyles.
In short, Tech Ridge is perfect for anyone who values convenience and efficiency. With essential amenities like gyms and dining options just a short drive away, it’s a great fit for modern professionals seeking a balanced and streamlined lifestyle.
Find Your Tech Ridge Apartment
Tech Ridge has become one of North Austin’s most sought-after rental areas, blending modern conveniences with a location ideal for tech professionals. With major employers like Samsung, Dell, and GM Innovation Center just a short drive away, commuting is a breeze.
Here, you’ll find spacious, upscale apartments at prices that often stretch further than rentals in central Austin. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and affordability.
What really sets Tech Ridge apart are the amenities. Think resort-style pools, cutting-edge fitness centers, coworking spaces, and smart-home features. Many communities also include perks like electric vehicle charging stations and pet-friendly touches such as dog parks – designed with today’s renters in mind.
The area’s excellent highway access makes life even easier. With direct routes to I-35, SH-130, and key surface streets, getting around town is simple and efficient. Tech Ridge isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle that combines convenience with modern living.
Curious to see it for yourself? Taco Street Locating offers free, personalized apartment-finding services to help you discover the perfect Tech Ridge home that aligns with your budget and needs. Whether you’re starting a new tech job or simply looking to get more for your rent, Tech Ridge checks all the boxes for comfortable, connected living.
FAQs
What makes Tech Ridge a great place for tech professionals to live?
Tech Ridge stands out as an excellent choice for tech professionals, thanks to its proximity to major employers like Samsung Austin Semiconductor, Dell, and the GM Innovation Center. Living here means shorter, hassle-free commutes, which is a big plus for busy professionals.
The area is packed with modern apartment communities that cater to the needs of early-career professionals and remote workers. Think coworking lounges for productivity, EV chargers for electric vehicles, and fitness centers to stay active – all in one place.
On top of that, Tech Ridge offers a more budget-friendly cost of living compared to central Austin. And you won’t miss out on convenience – there’s plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities nearby, making it an attractive option for anyone looking for a comfortable, well-rounded lifestyle.
How does renting in Tech Ridge compare to central Austin in terms of cost and amenities?
Renting in Tech Ridge offers a more wallet-friendly alternative compared to central Austin. The average rent in Tech Ridge sits at about $1,672, making it a solid choice for those looking to save, while central Austin typically demands higher prices thanks to its prime location and upscale options.
Apartments in Tech Ridge cater to modern lifestyles with features like coworking lounges, fitness centers, and pet-friendly areas – perfect for professionals. While central Austin boasts a broader range of luxury amenities, these often come with a steeper price tag. Tech Ridge manages to blend affordability with convenience, especially for those working in North Austin’s thriving tech scene.
How long is the commute from Tech Ridge to major employers like Samsung and Dell?
Tech Ridge provides an ideal spot for tech professionals seeking short commutes to North Austin’s major employers. Samsung Austin Semiconductor is only a 10-minute drive to the east, and Dell’s headquarters is about 15 minutes away via I-35. With its proximity to key highways and main roads, the area makes getting to work quick and hassle-free.
