Looking for a place to live in Downtown Houston? Here’s a quick breakdown of four popular apartment complexes: SoDo on Main, The Rice, Camden Downtown Houston, and Market Square Tower. Whether you prioritize affordability, luxury, or location, this guide will help you decide.
Key Highlights:
- SoDo on Main: Affordable downtown living with great amenities starting at $1,177. Walk Score: 82.
- The Rice: Historic charm with modern features. Studios from $1,116. Walk Score: 98.
- Camden Downtown Houston: Sleek high-rise with resort-style amenities. Studios from $1,459. Walk Score: 79.
- Market Square Tower: Luxury living with standout features like a glass-bottom pool. One-bedrooms start at $2,100. Walk Score: 95.
Quick Comparison:
| Complex | Starting Price | Walk Score | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| SoDo on Main | $1,177 (studio) | 82 | Rooftop pool, fitness center, prime location |
| The Rice | $1,116 (studio) | 98 | Historic charm, valet parking, unique amenities |
| Camden Downtown | $1,459 (studio) | 79 | Resort-style pool, modern design, Airbnb-friendly |
| Market Square Tower | $2,100 (1-bedroom) | 95 | Glass-bottom pool, luxury amenities, prime location |
No matter your budget or lifestyle, there’s an option for you in Downtown Houston. Dive into the details to find your perfect fit!
1. The Rice
The Rice is a blend of historic elegance and modern comfort, originally constructed in 1913 as an 18-story building located at 909 Texas Avenue. Here’s how The Rice stacks up against SoDo on Main and other downtown Houston communities.
Location
The Rice is situated in a prime downtown spot, boasting a Walk Score of 98 and a Transit Score of 88. This means residents have unparalleled access to Houston’s business hubs and entertainment hotspots. Just steps from the Houston Metrorail and the city’s tunnel system, it provides quick commutes to major employers like JPMorgan Chase Tower, Chevron Corporation, Ernst & Young, Deloitte, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. For leisure, destinations such as Minute Maid Park, Downtown Aquarium, and Sundance Cinemas are within walking distance. Everyday conveniences, including Minuti Coffee, Chipotle, and Subway, are right around the corner, making life here both exciting and practical.
Amenities
The Rice offers a unique mix of historic charm and modern perks. One standout feature is the remodeled historic underground heated pool, paired with a serene meditation room – amenities rarely found in newer buildings. Residents can also enjoy the 24th-floor outdoor terrace, which features lounge areas, gas grills, fire features, and TVs, creating a perfect space for relaxation or entertaining. Other conveniences include complimentary valet parking, concierge services, onsite auto detailing, dining options, and bars. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24-hour fitness center, complete with towel service and a virtual workout room.
Inside the apartments, attention to detail is evident. Residents can choose between dark maple or polished concrete floors, while units feature soaring 10- to 18-foot ceilings, quartz countertops, glass tile backsplashes, and, in select units, exposed brick accent walls. Bathrooms offer added luxury with Roman-style soaking tubs or clawfoot bathtubs, alongside spacious walk-in showers. These features reflect the high standards of living The Rice delivers.
Pricing
The Rice offers a range of pricing options to suit different needs. Studio apartments, sized between 484 and 508 square feet, are available for $1,116 to $1,491 per month. One-bedroom units, ranging from 573 to 1,144 square feet, are priced between $1,540 and $2,216 monthly. For those seeking more space, two-bedroom apartments start at $2,495, with larger layouts (up to 2,338 square feet) priced at $3,342 per month. Additional costs include an $85 application fee, a $250 administrative fee, and a $65 monthly community amenity fee. Reserved parking is available for $100 per month, and pet owners should budget for a $250 deposit and $20 monthly pet rent.
Resident Feedback
With a 4.7/5 rating on Apartments.com, residents frequently highlight The Rice’s excellent location, efficient concierge service, convenient valet parking, and responsive maintenance team. However, some concerns have been raised about elevator reliability, parking garage security, and the cleanliness of common areas. These issues seem to be maintenance-related rather than indicative of broader management challenges. Overall, The Rice continues to stand out as a strong contender among downtown living options.
2. Camden Downtown Houston
Located at 1515 Austin Street, Camden Downtown Houston is a sleek 21-story high-rise offering a modern take on downtown living. Unlike The Rice’s historic charm, this tower leans into contemporary design and resort-style amenities, making it a standout option for those seeking a luxurious urban experience.
Location
Camden Downtown Houston provides a central location that’s hard to beat. With a Walk Score of 79 (Very Walkable), Transit Score of 86 (Excellent Transit), and Bike Score of 65 (Bikeable), it’s designed for seamless city living. Residents have direct access to the METRORail and major highways, making commutes a breeze.
Sports fans will appreciate the proximity to venues like the Toyota Center, Minute Maid Park, BBVA Compass Stadium, and Reliant Stadium. Meanwhile, entertainment and dining are just steps away in the Theater District and Discovery Green, ensuring there’s always something to do.
Amenities
Camden Downtown Houston brings resort-style living to the heart of the city. The 9th-floor pool and lounge deck is perfect for relaxing, while the 21st-floor sky lounge offers breathtaking views of the Houston skyline, making it an ideal spot for entertaining.
Fitness enthusiasts will love the 24-hour high-endurance athletic club, equipped with cardio machines, strength training gear, free weights, and an on-demand virtual training studio. For social gatherings, the resident lounge features entertaining spaces, a catering kitchen, and a media lounge. There’s even a conference room for those who work from home.
The apartments themselves are designed with luxury in mind. Expect quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood-style floors, and double-pane windows with solar shades. Bathrooms feature glass-enclosed showers and tiled bathtubs, adding to the upscale feel.
Pet owners will be happy to know the community is pet-friendly, allowing up to three pets (fees apply). It’s also Airbnb-friendly, permitting short-term hosting for up to 90 days per year. Additional conveniences include 24-hour emergency maintenance, concierge services, valet dry cleaning, and a seven-level parking garage with direct access.
Pricing
Camden Downtown Houston offers a range of options to fit different budgets within the downtown market. Studio apartments start at $1,459, with prices typically between $1,169 and $1,899. One-bedroom units begin at $1,849, with most ranging from $1,909 to $2,609. For more space, two-bedroom apartments start at $2,489, with premium units reaching up to $5,319.
Resident Feedback
With a 2.8-star rating on Yelp from 15 reviews, resident feedback has been mixed. While some have pointed out areas for improvement, the building’s modern design, impressive amenities, and prime location continue to appeal to those seeking a high-end downtown lifestyle with excellent transit options and urban conveniences.
3. Skyhouse Houston
Located at 1625 Main Street, Skyhouse Houston is a sleek high-rise that bridges downtown and Midtown. Positioned right along Houston’s transit corridor, this modern tower offers a prime spot for urban living.
Location
Skyhouse Houston boasts a Walk Score of 89, making it a standout choice for those who want easy access to everything the city has to offer. It’s right by the MetroRail and close to major attractions like St. Joseph’s Medical Center, Discovery Green, and Minute Maid Park. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting, catching a game, or enjoying downtown’s entertainment scene, this location puts it all within reach. Perfect for professionals and city enthusiasts, the convenience of this address is hard to beat.
Amenities
Built in 2014, the apartments are designed with modern lifestyles in mind. They feature sleek finishes and layouts that make efficient use of space – ideal for those looking for a blend of style and functionality.
Pricing
Skyhouse Houston offers a variety of floor plans at competitive rates:
- Studios: Starting at $1,373
- One-bedroom units: Ranging from $1,588 to $1,807
- Two-bedroom units: Priced between $2,090 and $2,310
- Three-bedroom units: Available from $2,600 to $3,061
These prices make Skyhouse Houston a solid mid-range option for downtown living. It delivers the perks of a central location and excellent walkability without the hefty price tag of luxury high-rises. For professionals seeking a balance between affordability and modern conveniences, it’s a smart choice.
Resident Feedback
Residents appreciate the convenience of being so close to downtown’s business district, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The high Walk Score reflects its appeal to those who value a walkable, connected urban lifestyle.
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4. Market Square Tower
Located at 777 Preston Street in Houston’s historic First Ward, Market Square Tower blends modern luxury with a touch of history, standing on the site of the original Market Square.
Location
Market Square Tower scores high on convenience with a Walk Score of 95/100 and a Transit Score of 88/100. Its prime location across from Market Square Park puts residents within walking distance of dining, shopping, and nightlife hotspots, making it ideal for those who love an active urban lifestyle. Plus, being just 0.7 miles from the University of Houston, Downtown, it’s a great option for students and university staff. The setting not only offers access to a vibrant city life but also sets the stage for an impressive range of amenities.
Amenities
The amenities at Market Square Tower are designed to impress. The highlight? An infinity deck featuring a glass-bottom pool that hangs dramatically over downtown Houston’s streets. For recreation, residents can enjoy a virtual golf simulator, an indoor basketball court, and a game room stocked with air hockey, skee-ball, ping-pong, and arcade games.
For relaxation, the tower offers a spa with steam rooms, saunas, massage areas, and a sunless tanning suite. Foodies and entertainers will appreciate the demonstration kitchen, a wine room with private lockers, a movie theater, and the SKY 43 bar on the 43rd floor. Add practical perks like vehicle valet, concierge services, pet walking and grooming, and valet dry cleaning, and the living experience is elevated to a whole new level.
However, some residents have noted maintenance delays for certain amenities, including the sauna, steam room, and golf simulator, as reported in July 2024.
Pricing
Market Square Tower caters to those seeking upscale living:
- One-bedroom units: Starting at $2,100 (814–1,419 sq ft)
- Two-bedroom units: Starting at $4,300 (1,664–1,976 sq ft)
- Three-bedroom units: Starting at $5,800 (approximately 1,980 sq ft)
- Studio units: Pricing available upon request
Resident Feedback
Market Square Tower successfully combines a historic location with contemporary luxury, offering a unique living experience in downtown Houston. Residents often praise its unbeatable location and the convenience of its high walk and transit scores, which make daily life a breeze. The standout amenities, particularly the glass-bottom pool, add a wow factor that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city. That said, the premium pricing and occasional maintenance issues are factors to keep in mind when considering this upscale option.
Pros and Cons
When deciding between downtown Houston’s top apartment complexes, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and challenges of each. The table below highlights the key features of SoDo on Main and Market Square Tower, making it easier to compare their offerings.
| Complex | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| SoDo on Main | • Central downtown location with a Walk Score of 82 and a Transit Score of 87 • Quick and efficient maintenance service • Secure access with keycard entry • Competitive pricing – studios start at $1,185, slightly above Houston’s average of $1,096 • Friendly staff, including concierge and leasing teams |
• Mixed feedback from residents • Parking and security concerns, including reports of car theft due to a malfunctioning garage gate • Issues with management communication during the leasing process • Rent increases noted by long-term tenants |
| Market Square Tower | • Prime location with a Walk Score of 95/100 • Standout amenities like a glass-bottom infinity pool • High-end services, including concierge and valet • Conveniently located 0.7 miles from the University of Houston Downtown |
• High costs – one-bedroom units start at $2,100 • Limited options for renters on a tighter budget |
These two complexes cater to different lifestyles and priorities. SoDo on Main appeals to those seeking affordability in a central location, while Market Square Tower is designed for renters who value luxury and unique amenities.
Built in 2014, SoDo on Main has 674 units and has developed a sense of community over the years. The complex also demonstrates a commitment to resident feedback, with 92.31% of reviews on ApartmentRatings.com receiving responses from management. However, challenges like inconsistent execution of solutions persist.
For renters focused on budget-friendly options, SoDo on Main offers a practical downtown choice. On the other hand, those prioritizing upscale living and standout features may find Market Square Tower more appealing. The decision ultimately hinges on whether affordability or premium living is the top priority.
Conclusion
SoDo on Main stands out as a downtown Houston gem, blending affordability with a prime location. With a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating on Apartments.com, it offers a mix of value and convenience that’s not easy to come by in the heart of the city.
Its downtown location hits the mark for those seeking the perks of urban living. Residents are just steps away from Houston’s Theater District, Discovery Green park, and a vibrant array of dining and nightlife options. On-site amenities like a rooftop pool, fitness center, dog park, and 24/7 concierge service add to the appeal, while keycard access ensures an extra layer of security. These features create an environment that complements the fast-paced, city-centered lifestyle.
However, there are a few trade-offs to consider. Some residents have raised concerns, and typical downtown challenges – like urban noise and compact apartment layouts with limited storage – may not align with everyone’s preferences.
For those who prioritize walkability, access to urban amenities, and competitive pricing, SoDo on Main offers a compelling option. While it may not have the opulence of luxury high-rises, its balance of affordability, community-focused living, and proximity to local attractions makes it a strong contender for downtown Houston living.
FAQs
What are the main differences in amenities between SoDo on Main and The Rice apartments in Houston?
The amenities at SoDo on Main and The Rice apartments are designed to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
SoDo on Main leans into a social and outdoor vibe. Think floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, a rooftop pool, and a modern gym. Plus, there’s a lounge offering breathtaking views of downtown, making it perfect for those who enjoy a lively, community-oriented atmosphere.
Meanwhile, The Rice focuses on upscale interiors and fitness amenities. Expect gourmet kitchens with islands, quartz countertops, and sleek glass tile backsplashes. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a fully equipped studio to meet your workout needs. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who values stylish design and a touch of luxury.
SoDo on Main is all about community and outdoor living, while The Rice caters to those who prefer high-end finishes and modern elegance.
How does SoDo on Main’s pricing compare to other apartments in downtown Houston?
SoDo on Main: Affordable Living in Downtown Houston
SoDo on Main offers attractive pricing compared to many other apartments in downtown Houston. While typical rents in the area range from around $1,030 for a studio to over $2,000 for larger units, SoDo on Main often starts in the lower to mid-range of that spectrum. This makes it an appealing choice for renters who want to balance cost with quality.
With its blend of reasonable rates, a prime location, and modern amenities, SoDo on Main is a standout option for anyone seeking value in the heart of downtown Houston.
What concerns do residents have about living at SoDo on Main, and how are these issues being addressed?
Residents of SoDo on Main have voiced concerns about safety in the area, citing instances of suspicious activity and the presence of a nearby homeless population. These factors have reportedly led to a higher turnover rate, especially among female tenants. On top of that, some have expressed dissatisfaction with the management’s responsiveness and delays in handling maintenance requests.
In response, the property has stepped up security measures and is actively working to improve the overall tenant experience. Even with these challenges, many residents highlight the rooftop pool, modern gym, and other impressive amenities as key features that make living there enjoyable.
