Looking for the best modern apartments near Southern Methodist University (SMU) in 2025? Here’s a quick guide to the top options, all within a 0.5–3.5 mile radius of campus. These apartments prioritize convenience, security, and student-focused amenities like study lounges, high-speed internet, and flexible lease terms. Whether you want to be steps away from campus or enjoy a short commute, there’s something for everyone.
| Apartment Name | Distance from SMU | Starting Rent | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Katy Trail Uptown | 2.5 miles | $2,037/month | Rooftop lounge, USB outlets, smart tech |
| The Gentry on M Streets | 2 miles | $1,623/month | Resort pool, private yards, pet-friendly |
| Belclaire | 500 feet | $1,450/month | Steps from campus, study nooks, flexible leases |
| The Standard | 1.2 miles | $1,415/month | LEED-certified, 24/7 concierge, EV stations |
| The Branch Live Oaks | 1.8 miles | $1,353/month | Wellness center, rooftop lounge, pet spa |
| The Branch Teak | 3.5 miles | $1,415/month | Smart home tech, resort-style pool |
| The Ash at the Branch | 3.5 miles | $1,597/month | Granite kitchens, walk-in closets, rooftop lounge |
These apartments offer a mix of proximity, modern amenities, and community features to support both academic success and a great college experience. Read on for detailed reviews and insights into each property.
Katy Trail Uptown is located just 2.5 miles from Southern Methodist University. While it slightly exceeds the 2-mile radius mentioned in our criteria, its standout amenities make it a great option for students. The commute to SMU usually takes 10-15 minutes by car, offering a convenient balance for those seeking urban living close to campus. Its location places residents in the heart of Dallas’ energetic urban scene, while still keeping campus within easy reach.
Katy Trail Uptown delivers a blend of urban convenience and student-friendly features. Built in 2021, this high-rise offers a modern living experience with amenities like a rooftop lounge that boasts downtown Dallas views, a pool deck featuring an outdoor kitchen and firepits, and a co-working lounge on the 5th floor designed for productivity.
Some tech-forward features include:
Inside the units, you’ll find quartz countertops, frameless glass showers with rainfall heads, and layouts ready for smart home integration. Additional highlights include:
| Unit Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Studio | $2,037/month |
| 1-Bedroom | $2,122/month |
| 2-3 Bedroom | Varies |
"Our recent move-in incentive offers 50% off the second month’s rent on a 12-month lease for applications submitted by October 31st", notes the Katy Trail Uptown leasing office.
With a Walk Score of 77, this location meets the needs of students looking for walkable amenities between classes and study sessions. The area includes three shopping centers within 0.7 miles and five parks within 5.5 miles.
Some neighborhood perks include:
Situated at 3736 Glencoe St, The Gentry on M Streets is just 2 miles from Southern Methodist University. Students can drive to campus in about 7-10 minutes or enjoy a 30-minute walk, making it convenient for both drivers and walkers. While it’s a bit farther than Katy Trail, The Gentry caters to SMU students with perks like leases that align with the academic calendar.
The Gentry blends sleek, modern amenities with practical design elements, such as 11-foot ceilings in select units and stylish finishes throughout.
Key Features:
| Indoor Features | Outdoor Features |
|---|---|
| Package concierge | Resort-style swimming pool |
| Controlled access | Outdoor kitchen and lounge |
| Walk-in closets | Private yards (select units) |
| Dog park |
Apartments come with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood-style flooring. Full-size or stackable washers and dryers are included in every unit.
| Unit Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Studio (597-760 sq ft) | $1,623+ |
| 1 Bed (830-902 sq ft) | $2,381+ |
| 2 Bed (1,207 sq ft) | $3,259+ |
The Gentry offers 10-13 month lease options, making it a flexible choice for students.
"Great community! Quiet environment with Glencoe park in front of the apartment. Staffs are very friendly and helpful." – Resident Review on Birdeye [1]
Located in the M Streets area, this property provides a peaceful residential vibe while keeping you close to urban hotspots. Glencoe Park is right across the street, offering green space for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Its proximity to SMU also means easy access to popular destinations like Lower Greenville’s entertainment district and Mockingbird Station’s shopping and dining options.
For pet owners, The Gentry has you covered with on-site perks like a bark park and on-demand pet grooming. A one-time $375 non-refundable pet fee and $25 monthly pet rent apply.
Located right on SMU Boulevard, Belclaire is just steps away from campus, making it one of the most convenient off-campus housing options. It’s less than 500 feet from SMU’s Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports, offering easy access to campus activities and resources.
Belclaire blends practical features with modern comforts. For peace of mind, the property includes controlled-access entry and 24/7 surveillance.
Building Amenities:
Some units feature extras like built-in study nooks, 9-foot ceilings, and kitchen islands with bar seating. The community lounge is a popular spot for SMU study groups.
With 417 units, Belclaire offers a variety of layouts to suit different needs:
| Unit Type | Size (sq ft) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 494 | $1,450 – $1,550 |
| 1 Bedroom | 606 – 712 | $1,535 – $1,745 |
| 2 Bedroom | 872 – 1,134 | $2,060 – $2,645 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,520 | $3,155 – $3,185 |
Lease terms are flexible, ranging from 3 to 15 months.
Belclaire’s location puts you within walking distance of plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It’s also pet-friendly, with a $350 pet fee and $25/month pet rent.
If staying close to campus is your priority, The Standard is just 1.2 miles from SMU, making it the nearest option in this review. A quick 5-minute drive gets you to campus, offering a great mix of convenience and city living.
The Standard provides high-end amenities tailored for student life. Whether you’re unwinding by the resort-style pool or using the 24/7 concierge service, this place is built for comfort and convenience.
Building Amenities:
Apartment Features:
| Unit Type | Square Footage | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 595 | $1,415 – $1,450 |
| 1 Bedroom | 701-897 | $1,395 – $2,060 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,070-1,229 | $2,250 – $2,515 |
The Standard offers a pet-friendly atmosphere with an on-site dog park and excellent walkability to SMU. Located in Northeast Dallas, it connects residents to key spots like:
With its LEED certification aligning with SMU’s environmental goals, The Standard is a great pick for students who care about eco-conscious living.
If you’re looking for a place near SMU that also lets you dive into local life, The Branch Live Oaks is a great option. Just 1.8 miles from campus, it’s located in the M Streets area, close to the lively Lakewood neighborhood.
The Branch Live Oaks is packed with perks designed for students. From a Wellness Center with cardio zones to a rooftop lounge offering stunning city views, this property blends academics and relaxation seamlessly.
Standout Amenities:
The apartments themselves are built with students in mind, offering features that prioritize comfort and convenience:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | Granite countertops, built-in wine racks |
| Technology | High-speed internet |
| Design | 9-foot ceilings |
| Comfort | Private balconies/patios, spa-like bathrooms |
| Convenience | Washer/dryer hookups |
| Unit | Size (sq. ft.) | Rent ($) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 735-851 | 1,353-1,843 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,104-1,249 | 1,880-2,180 |
The Branch Live Oaks is located in a walkable area, making it easy for students to connect and explore. Nearby, you’ll find:
Residents also benefit from concierge services and regular community events, making it easy to enjoy both campus life and Dallas’ vibrant culture – similar to what’s offered at The Gentry and The Standard.
Located at 4601 Amesbury Dr, The Branch Teak is about 3.5 miles from Southern Methodist University. This translates to a 10-15 minute drive, offering a balance between campus access and city living. While it’s a bit farther than options like Belclaire and The Standard, it provides an appealing mix of convenience and urban amenities.
The Branch Teak is designed with students and young professionals in mind, offering modern amenities and smart technology to support both academic and personal needs.
Community Perks:
Apartments are tailored for student living, featuring:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flooring | Hardwood-style flooring |
| Storage | Walk-in closets with custom shelving |
| Outdoor Space | Private balconies or yards (in select units) |
| Unit | Size | Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 587-864 sq ft | $1,415-$1,960 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,160-1,349 sq ft | $2,070-$2,475 |
The Branch Teak is well-placed to enjoy some of Dallas’ most vibrant areas. Residents can take advantage of:
With a 4.1/5 star rating on Apartments.com, The Branch Teak is a popular choice for its location and features. Its academic-friendly lease terms and 24/7 study spaces make it a strong option for students seeking a mix of academic focus and urban lifestyle.
Sitting at 4646 Amesbury Dr, just 3.5 miles from SMU, The Ash provides a quick 10-15 minute commute. It’s perfect for students who want a bit of distance from campus while keeping it easily accessible.
The Ash blends modern conveniences with features geared toward student life, including:
Inside the apartments, you’ll find smart home tech, granite kitchen islands, and walk-in closets designed for extra storage. Here’s a closer look:
| Interior Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | Soft-close cabinets and island layouts |
| Flooring | Durable wood-look design |
| Storage | Walk-in closets with custom organizers |
| Technology | Smart-ready and high-speed internet compatible |
| Unit Type | Square Footage | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 631-788 sq ft | $1,597-$1,996 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,152-1,199 sq ft | $2,357-$2,517 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,596 sq ft | $3,787-$3,837 |
The Ash connects residents to Dallas’ trails and the dining options of Lower Greenville, all within walking distance. Plus, its location near the Knox/Henderson district offers:
This neighborhood gives SMU students a chance to unwind while staying close to campus.
From cutting-edge high-rises to walkable communities near campus, these seven properties showcase diverse options for student living near SMU. They combine top-tier amenities, academic-friendly features, and convenient locations to help students thrive.
When comparing these properties, pay attention to these important factors:
| Factor | SMU-Specific Benefits |
|---|---|
| Academic Support | Study lounges, printing services, and spaces for group work |
| Security Measures | 24/7 monitoring, controlled access, and well-lit pathways |
| Location Perks | Shuttle routes, bike paths, and proximity to campus hubs |
Visiting properties in person is a great way to get a feel for their atmosphere and see how well they align with your academic needs. If you’re starting your search, many places also offer virtual tours to help you narrow down your options before scheduling a visit.
Where you live impacts your daily routine and campus experience. By focusing on proximity, academic resources, and community features, SMU students can find housing that supports their goals for the 2025 academic year.
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