Far South Austin Complete Apartment Breakdown: Goodnight Commons
| Complex | Starting Rent | Key Features | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goodnight Commons | $1,398 | Modern, family-friendly, car-dependent | Young professionals, families |
| The Reserve | $952 | Resort-style, budget-friendly specials | Budget-conscious renters |
| 44 South | $1,199 | Urban, walkable, vibrant SoCo area | City dwellers |
| Affinity at Southpark Meadows | $1,726 | 55+ community, all-inclusive pricing | Active adults 55+ |
Each option caters to different needs, from affordability to lifestyle preferences. Read on for detailed comparisons of pricing, amenities, and resident experiences.
Goodnight Commons is nestled in the Goodnight Ranch neighborhood in Southeast Austin, conveniently located on Slaughter Lane, just east of Interstate 35. The community sits south of Downtown Austin and close to Southpark Meadows, making it a great spot for those who want easy access to the city without being in the thick of it. Major employers like Apple, Inc. are within reach, and the area falls under the Austin Independent School District. For healthcare needs, Saint David’s South Austin Medical Center is nearby.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy with local parks like Onion Creek Greenbelt Park, McKinney Falls State Park, and Goat Cave Nature Preserve just a quick drive away. Shopping options are also plentiful, supporting an active and convenient lifestyle. While the neighborhood scores a 10 for walking, 27 for transit, and 33 for biking, it’s still mostly car-dependent. The apartments themselves are designed with practicality in mind, offering layouts that balance comfort and affordability.
Goodnight Commons has a variety of spacious floor plans to meet different needs. If you’re looking for a cozy setup, the one-bedroom units start at $1,398 and offer 727 square feet of living space – perfect for professionals or those living solo. For more room, the two-bedroom options begin at $1,684 and range from 909 to 1,020 square feet, making them a great fit for roommates or small families. Need even more space? Three-bedroom apartments start at $1,945, with layouts between 1,186 and 1,316 square feet, ideal for growing families or anyone needing extra room for work or hobbies. There are also four-bedroom units priced between $1,984 and $2,033, offering a spacious 1,703 square feet, though these are currently unavailable.
Goodnight Commons offers amenities designed to balance activity and relaxation. Residents can enjoy a fitness center, clubhouse, playground, and convenient services like package handling, on-site laundry facilities, and responsive property management. Monthly resident events and a tech center create opportunities for community connection.
Inside the apartments, thoughtful touches make daily life easier. Features include walk-in closets, dishwashers, microwaves, and garbage disposals. Energy-efficient perks like programmable thermostats and tankless gas hot water heaters help save on utilities, while ceiling fans and private patios enhance comfort. The community is also pet-friendly, welcoming pets with applicable fees.
Residents have shared positive feedback about Goodnight Commons, highlighting the well-maintained grounds and attentive management. While many appreciate the overall living experience, some have expressed interest in additional recreational spaces like a park or play area. With competitive pricing, a range of amenities, and responsive management, Goodnight Commons stands out as a highly recommended place to call home.
The Reserve, situated at 1016 West Stassney Lane in South Manchaca, is just four miles south of Downtown Austin. Its location offers easy access to shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and parks. Unlike Goodnight Commons, The Reserve focuses on resort-style living with a touch of personalized management. Residents enjoy the convenience of having Austin Oaks Hospital only 0.3 miles away and St. David’s South Austin Medical Center within a short 2.8-mile drive. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby parks and nature preserves like Goat Cave Nature Preserve and Barton Creek Greenbelt offer plenty of options to explore.
The Reserve provides one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, catering to a range of budgets. One-bedroom units start at $952 per month, while two-bedroom options begin at $1,480, with rents spanning from $952 to $1,630 per month. As of May 31, 2025, there are 11 units available, and current specials include up to $500 off the first month’s rent and a $99 application fee.
Designed with a resort-inspired touch, The Reserve offers amenities that blend relaxation and convenience. Residents can enjoy a swimming pool, clubhouse, fitness center, extra storage options, on-site maintenance, and package acceptance services. The property is also pet-friendly, making it a great choice for those with furry companions.
The Reserve’s combination of competitive pricing, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between work and leisure. Residents often highlight the sense of affordable luxury, with the community’s smaller size fostering more personalized management and a close-knit neighborhood vibe. Its proximity to shopping, healthcare facilities, and outdoor destinations like the Barton Creek Greenbelt further enhances its appeal. Up next, we’ll take a closer look at 44 South, another strong contender in Far South Austin.
Situated at 4411 S Congress Ave in the vibrant SoCo area, 44 South offers residents easy access to downtown Austin, I-35, the Mopac Expressway, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s close to Lady Bird Lake and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, giving plenty of options for recreation and relaxation. This prime location creates a seamless balance between work and leisure.
The South Congress neighborhood is famous for its eclectic mix of high-end shops, quirky boutiques, street vendors, colorful murals, and live music venues, all of which contribute to its lively and dynamic atmosphere.
44 South features a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Pricing starts at $1,199 for studios, $1,449 for one-bedroom units, and $1,925 for two-bedroom layouts. However, three-bedroom apartments are not available. Notably, these prices are competitive – 5.5% below the average rent in East Congress and 9.33% lower than the city-wide average.
The community boasts a resort-style pool, perfect for relaxation or socializing. Each apartment is outfitted with a sleek, modern kitchen featuring stainless-steel appliances. Living in South Congress means residents are just steps away from local boutiques and eateries, blending convenience with a vibrant urban lifestyle [12, 14].
Life at 44 South means embracing the energy of South Congress. Residents can walk to some of Austin’s most beloved restaurants, shops, and entertainment spots, immersing themselves in the area’s rich cultural vibe. With competitive pricing and a location that puts everything within reach, 44 South is an excellent choice for those who want the best of urban living paired with convenience and charm.
Affinity at Southpark Meadows is nestled in Far South Austin at 9500 Alice Mae Ln. Its location offers convenience and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. Southpark Meadows is just a quick 5-minute drive away, providing access to the Walmart Supercenter, and HEB Grocery is only 10 minutes out. For those who love the outdoors, Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park is about 10 minutes away, while the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center adds even more recreational options nearby. Healthcare needs are well-covered, too, with St. David’s South Austin Medical Center just 15 minutes from the community. This combination of amenities and proximity makes it a standout option among other Far South Austin neighborhoods.
"Our Southpark Meadows community is a wanderer’s delight. Grab a friend and check out the variety of restaurants, cafes, shopping, parks, and other amenities right in your backyard." – Affinity Living Communities
This 55+ active adult community, built in 2018, features 163 well-designed units, offering a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The all-inclusive pricing covers utilities, high-speed internet, and cable TV, making budgeting straightforward and stress-free. Studios start at $1,726 per month, one-bedroom units begin at $1,908, and two-bedroom options range from $2,142 to $2,660 per month. These prices are notably lower than the Travis County averages, where studios typically cost $3,999, one-bedrooms $3,919, and two-bedrooms $4,448. This affordability, paired with the community’s amenities, creates an attractive living option for active adults.
With over 30,000 square feet of social and recreational space, Affinity at Southpark Meadows is designed to keep residents engaged and active. Highlights include Dilly Dally’s Pub, perfect for weekly happy hours, a golf simulator, and a pickleball court. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped fitness center, and a yoga studio. For socializing and hobbies, the community offers a movie theater, billiards room, game room, and an arts and crafts studio. Pet owners are also catered to with a dog park and a dog wash spa. Outdoor spaces include a community garden, a putting green, and an outdoor kitchen complete with a BBQ area, perfect for gatherings and relaxation.
Residents consistently share positive feedback about their experiences at Affinity at Southpark Meadows. The community has earned a perfect 5.0/5 rating on Apartments.com and 4.8/5 stars on Caring.com, reflecting its strong reputation. One resident, in an August 2021 review, praised staff member Liz for her exceptional service and thorough explanations of community features, emphasizing the warm atmosphere and top-notch facilities. With its thoughtful amenities, transparent pricing, and vibrant community life, Affinity at Southpark Meadows offers an inviting and maintenance-free lifestyle for adults 55 and older in the heart of Far South Austin.
Here’s a quick summary of the standout features and challenges of two popular options: Goodnight Commons and Affinity at Southpark Meadows. This comparison focuses on affordability and lifestyle preferences to help you make a more informed choice.
| Complex | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Goodnight Commons | • Competitive pricing starting at $1,398 for one-bedroom units • Responsive new management team • Family-friendly vibe with modern amenities in a 2019 building | • Car-dependent location • Mixed reviews on cleanliness and maintenance • Limited public transit options |
| Affinity at Southpark Meadows | • All-inclusive pricing tailored for independent living • Specifically designed for active adults aged 55+ with custom amenities | • Restricted to residents aged 55+ • Higher price point compared to other options • Less suitable for younger families or diverse age groups |
When weighing these options, it’s clear that both communities cater to different needs. Goodnight Commons offers a budget-friendly choice, with one-bedroom units starting at $1,398, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious renters. On the other hand, Affinity at Southpark Meadows caters specifically to active adults 55 and older, with a focus on independent living and amenities tailored to retirement lifestyles. While Affinity’s pricing is higher, starting at $1,908, its all-inclusive model can appeal to those seeking convenience and community-focused living.
Location also plays a big role in the decision. Goodnight Commons is situated in a car-dependent area, which may not suit those relying on public transportation. In contrast, Affinity benefits from its proximity to shopping and dining in the Southpark Meadows area, adding convenience for its residents.
Resident feedback paints a mixed picture. Goodnight Commons scores an impressive 4.7/5 on Apartments.com but only 3.4/5 on Rentable.co, reflecting divided opinions on its maintenance and cleanliness. Affinity at Southpark Meadows, however, enjoys generally positive reviews, reinforcing its appeal for those in the 55+ demographic looking for a retirement-friendly environment.
Goodnight Commons is a standout option for renters looking to balance affordability with modern conveniences in Far South Austin. With one-bedroom apartments starting at $1,398, the complex offers units that are 17.45% cheaper than the citywide average for apartments. Built in 2019, these apartments feature contemporary touches like tile flooring, reservable storage spaces, and a clubhouse. Additionally, income restrictions ensure accessibility for households earning less than 80% of Austin’s Median Family Income. This approach is particularly important in a city where the median home price soared to $491,000 in early 2021 – a sharp 24.3% increase from the previous year. While the affordability and amenities are appealing, there are a few trade-offs to consider.
"When we first opened up Goodnight Ranch four years ago, we wanted to create an opportunity for folks to fully immerse themselves in an energetic neighborhood through sustainable development and a thoughtful plan focused on connectivity. We remain strong in our commitment to create a community of reasonable and affordable homes with access to the outdoors and neighborhood services for every stage of life within city limits." – Myra Goepp, Goodnight Ranch
One of the main drawbacks is the low Walk Score of 12/100, which means residents will need a car for most errands and daily activities. While reviews highlight the quiet, well-maintained community and improvements in management, there are still some mixed opinions about maintenance and cleanliness, indicating room for operational improvements.
Goodnight Commons is particularly well-suited for young professionals, small families, and those who prioritize modern amenities on a budget. The family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to schools like Blazier Elementary make it an attractive option for parents seeking quality education nearby.
For renters who place a premium on walkability, robust public transit, or high-end luxury features, other properties might be a better fit. However, for those who value affordability combined with modern living, Goodnight Commons remains a strong contender in Far South Austin.
Goodnight Commons is a standout option for families and young professionals in South Austin, thanks to its well-planned amenities and convenient location. Residents can take advantage of a fitness center, swimming pool, and community spaces, offering plenty of opportunities to stay active, relax, and build connections with neighbors. Plus, the neighborhood is close to parks, grocery stores, and major employers, putting both daily essentials and leisure activities just a short distance away.
The community is designed to create a welcoming and secure environment – perfect for families seeking a close-knit neighborhood and young professionals wanting an energetic, connected lifestyle. With a range of floor plans, from cozy studios to spacious units, Goodnight Commons caters to various living preferences, making it an attractive choice for a wide range of residents.
Living at Goodnight Commons comes with the reality that having a car is almost a necessity for daily life. With a Walk Score of just 7 out of 100 and limited public transit options, getting around without your own vehicle can be tough. While there are some conveniences like bike racks and occasional car-sharing services, the area isn’t ideal for those who rely on walking or public transportation. On the bright side, if you do have a car, the location provides easy access to nearby highways and key destinations, making driving the go-to option for most residents.
Goodnight Commons: A Tranquil Retreat
Goodnight Commons is known for its calm, community-oriented atmosphere and a range of practical amenities. With features like a fitness center, swimming pool, community room, and secure property access, it offers everything you need for comfortable living. Residents frequently praise the spotless facilities and approachable management, making it a great pick for those who value peace and a well-kept environment.
For those seeking a livelier vibe, other apartments in Far South Austin, such as Alexan Garza Ranch, cater to a more energetic lifestyle. These complexes often include multiple pools, sports courts, and scenic walking trails. While Goodnight Commons is ideal for those who prefer a serene setting, options like Alexan Garza Ranch might attract individuals who thrive in a more social and activity-filled environment.
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