Far South Austin Complete Apartment Review: St. Elmo Living
Looking for modern, affordable apartments in Austin? St. Elmo Living could be the answer. Opened in 2022 and located in the dynamic St. Elmo Entertainment District, this 387-unit complex offers stylish living spaces with standout amenities at competitive prices. Here’s a quick breakdown:
St. Elmo Living is designed for young professionals seeking convenience and comfort without downtown prices. Dive into the article to explore detailed features, pricing, and comparisons with nearby apartments.
St. Elmo Living is designed with modern apartment living in mind, blending stylish interiors with a range of community perks to create a perfect mix of comfort and convenience.
Each apartment boasts a thoughtfully crafted kitchen equipped with Energy Star GE stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and custom cabinetry accented by elegant lighting. Storage is a breeze with oversized closets featuring wood shelving, and select units even include built-in mudroom benches for extra organization. Central air conditioning and flush-mount LED lighting ensure every space feels bright and comfortable.
Forget the hassle of shared laundry spaces – every unit includes its own washer and dryer. Bathrooms are equally impressive, featuring framed vanity mirrors, with select layouts offering dual vanities and frameless showers for a more luxurious feel.
Other highlights include two chic interior color schemes, spacious bedrooms, faux wood window coverings, and high-speed internet access. Some units go the extra mile with storage islands, dry bars, and oversized patios or balconies to enjoy outdoor living.
But the perks don’t stop at your front door.
St. Elmo Living’s shared spaces are designed for both relaxation and productivity. Residents can unwind at two resort-style pools with adjacent lounge areas or gather in the courtyard, complete with a fire pit, water fountain, and outdoor café.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24-hour gym, fully equipped to meet a variety of workout needs. For those working remotely, flexible coworking spaces and private conference rooms provide an ideal setup.
Pet owners aren’t left out, either. The community features a dedicated dog park and two spa grooming stations to keep furry friends happy. Plus, BBQ grills, a beverage bar, and indoor-outdoor lounges make hosting social events a breeze.
And there’s more – unique touches set this community apart.
St. Elmo Living includes thoughtful extras that elevate day-to-day life. Climate-controlled interior hallways ensure comfort no matter the season – an especially welcome feature during Austin’s sweltering summers or chilly winter days.
For residents driving electric vehicles, EV charging stations are available, reflecting the community’s forward-thinking approach. Affordable garage parking is offered at $75 per month, while pet policies include a $25 monthly fee, a $350 one-time fee, and a $350 deposit.
It’s the details – like custom kitchen lighting or those framed vanity mirrors – that show how St. Elmo Living goes beyond the basics to create a truly elevated living experience.
St. Elmo Living provides a variety of layouts, including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, designed to meet different living needs.
The community offers three apartment options, each priced competitively within Austin’s rental market. Studio apartments start at $1,118 per month, a budget-friendly choice for those looking for modern features at an accessible price point. One-bedroom units begin at $1,318 per month, ideal for individuals or couples seeking extra space and privacy. For those requiring even more room, two-bedroom apartments start at $1,591 per month. It’s worth noting that St. Elmo Living does not provide three-bedroom units.
Keep in mind that base rents do not include additional monthly fees, such as $25 for trash and $5 for pest control, or one-time charges like a $175 administrative fee and a $75 application fee.
These prices reflect both the quality of the units and the trends in Austin’s rental market.
The combination of St. Elmo Living’s modern amenities, high-quality finishes, and prime location contributes to its pricing. These rates align with the convenience and features offered by the property. Additionally, broader market trends significantly influence rental costs.
Cindi Reed, director at MRI ApartmentData, explains: "When you introduce that many new apartments, your rental rates drop due to competition. Supply and demand." This trend is evident in Austin, where rents have been declining for 19 consecutive months. In fact, apartment prices have decreased by 23% since their peak in August 2023.
Despite falling rents, Austin’s population saw an 8.5% growth between 2019 and 2022. This population boom has increased demand, leading landlords to compete more aggressively. In some cases, they’ve introduced incentives like free rent to attract new tenants.
St. Elmo Living is nestled in Far South Austin, blending vintage charm with modern convenience. Its location offers residents quick access to Austin’s Central Business District and the lively South Congress Avenue, making it a prime spot for enjoying the best of the city while staying connected to local attractions and everyday necessities.
The neighborhood is a treasure trove of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. For groceries, residents have their pick of major retailers like H-E-B, Costco, Target, and Walmart. When it comes to dining, choices range from casual favorites like Home Slice Pizza and Hopdoddy Burger Bar to classic Austin establishments like Chuy’s, Magnolia Cafe, and Matt’s El Rancho.
A short drive brings you to the South Congress (SoCo) area, well-known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, vintage stores, live music venues, art galleries, murals, and restaurants. Iconic spots include the South Congress Bridge, the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge Observation Deck, and the famous "I love you so much" mural, alongside the vibrant South Congress SOCO Mural. For movie enthusiasts, local entertainment hubs like Alamo Drafthouse Cinema South Lamar and Violet Crown Cinema are just around the corner.
The St. Elmo Arts District adds even more flavor to the area. The Yard, a community-focused space, is home to popular food trucks such as Nixta Taqueria, Knuckle Sandwich, The Pizza Den, Spicy Boys Chicken, and King’s Taqueria. The district also features The Austin Winery, located at 440 E. St. Elmo, adding a touch of sophistication to the neighborhood.
South Austin’s culinary scene offers something for every palate. Food lovers can savor Southern-inspired dishes at Mattie’s, smoky Asian fusion at Loro, or specialty house-infused liquors and 24-hour coffee at Buzz Mill. Vegetarian diners will find plenty to love at Bouldin Creek Cafe, while Plaza Colombian Coffee serves authentic arepas and pastries straight from Colombia. Music aficionados can enjoy live performances at venues like Broken Spoke, Saxon Pub, and Come And Take It Live. For a laid-back vibe, visit gathering spots like Still Austin Whiskey Co., Meanwhile Brewing Co., or The Far Out Lounge and Stage.
Nature and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the area’s green spaces, including Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool, UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Quirky local highlights like the Greetings from Austin mural and Peter Pan Mini-Golf further enhance the neighborhood’s charm. With its mix of attractions, St. Elmo Living provides a vibrant, walkable environment that makes exploring Austin easy and enjoyable.
Getting around is simple, thanks to a well-connected transportation network. St. Elmo Living boasts a Walk Score of 63, a Transit Score of 49, and a Bike Score of 63. Multiple transit stops are within a 0.33-mile radius, including St. Elmo Station (just 0.16 miles away) and South Congress Bay stops. The neighborhood strikes a balance between walkable amenities and car-friendly infrastructure, making it convenient for both daily errands and commuting across Austin. Whether you’re biking, walking, or taking public transit, getting where you need to go is hassle-free.
After diving into amenities and pricing, it’s essential to explore what current and past residents have to say about St. Elmo Living. With an average rating of 4.0/5, reviews highlight both the perks and challenges of living here.
Residents frequently praise the location, amenities, and spacious units. Being close to highways, restaurants, and entertainment venues is a significant advantage for many. The community amenities, such as the pool and gym, also receive high marks. One resident shared:
"The location is great, close to highway and bars/restaurants. Pool and gym are great. Apartment is comfortable and roomy. Staff is friendly and helpful."
The friendly and helpful staff further contribute to a positive living experience, making day-to-day life more enjoyable for many.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some residents have raised concerns about management practices, including unannounced entries and slow maintenance responses. One verified resident on Apartments.com expressed frustration, stating:
"Management at this property consistently demonstrates a lack of concern for tenant safety and well-being."
Noise can also be an issue, particularly for units near busy bars or traffic-heavy areas. Additionally, the limited variety of floor plans may leave some prospective tenants wanting more options.
It’s worth noting that reviews vary significantly depending on the platform. While RentCafe reviews lean positive, epIQ Renter Ratings paint a different picture, with office staff and maintenance teams receiving a 1.0 rating and an overall grade of F. This disparity underscores the mixed experiences of those who have called St. Elmo Living home.
Property | Studio | 1-Bedroom | 2-Bedroom | 3-Bedroom | Key Amenities | Unit Options |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
St. Elmo Living | $1,118 – $1,276 | $1,318 – $1,693 | $1,591 – $2,309 | Not Available | Two pools, fitness center, EV charging, pet spa, co-working spaces | Studio, 1BR, 2BR |
Lenox Burnet | $1,234+ | $1,234 – $1,924 | $1,966 – $3,343 | Not Available | Two pools, fitness center, dog park, EV charging, quartz countertops | Studio, 1BR, 2BR |
Broadstone North Lamar | $1,490+ | Not Available | $2,625+ | Not Available | Resort-style pool, sky lounge, putting green, pet spa | Studio, 2BR only |
Revolve ATX | Not Available | $1,224+ | Not Available | Up to $3,162 | Fitness center, podcast suite, coffee bar, pet spa | 1BR, 3BR only |
When comparing nearby apartments, St. Elmo Living strikes a solid balance between affordability and practical amenities. While options like Broadstone North Lamar cater to luxury seekers with features like a sky lounge and putting green, St. Elmo Living focuses on everyday essentials, such as two pools, EV charging stations, and co-working spaces – all at competitive price points. Unlike Broadstone North Lamar, which skips one-bedroom units, or Revolve ATX, which doesn’t offer two-bedroom layouts, St. Elmo Living provides a more traditional range of unit options, including studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms, giving renters the flexibility they often look for.
Location is another key advantage for St. Elmo Living. Nestled in the East Congress neighborhood, it boasts a Walk Score of 62/100 and is conveniently close to three shopping centers within half a mile. Additionally, it enjoys a favorable resident rating of 4.0 out of 5 across multiple platforms, reflecting a positive overall experience.
For renters who want affordability without compromising on essential amenities or unit variety, St. Elmo Living stands out as a strong choice in Austin’s rental market.
St. Elmo Living combines modern conveniences, a prime location, and a lively community, making it a standout choice for young professionals in Austin. Their tagline sums it up perfectly: "Live. Work. Play. It’s all within reach at St. Elmo Living".
Situated on South Congress Avenue in the buzzing St. Elmo Entertainment District, the property offers residents seamless access to I-35 and US-290, making both commutes and weekend getaways hassle-free. The amenities are designed to simplify daily life, with features like two pools, a gym, and co-working spaces. For added convenience, there are EV charging stations and pet grooming facilities, catering to today’s lifestyle needs.
The apartments themselves are thoughtfully designed and competitively priced, featuring modern touches like in-unit washers and dryers, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. In a rental market as competitive as Austin’s, St. Elmo Living provides a balance of style and affordability.
Residents consistently praise the community for its excellent location, top-notch amenities, and overall living experience. For young professionals looking for more than just an apartment, St. Elmo Living offers a place that supports both their career ambitions and their lifestyle. It’s not just a home – it’s where life happens.
St. Elmo Living: A Perfect Spot for Young Professionals
St. Elmo Living has become a favorite among young professionals, thanks to its sleek design, convenient location, and lively atmosphere. The apartments feature upscale finishes and are packed with amenities like a fitness center, a sparkling pool, and co-working spaces – ideal for blending work and relaxation seamlessly. Plus, being just a short distance from downtown Austin and popular local spots means residents can dive into the city’s buzzing social and professional scenes with ease.
Studio apartments start at $1,118, while one-bedroom units are available from $1,343, offering a balance of affordability and quality. Beyond the apartments, the neighborhood itself adds to the appeal. With nearby parks, trendy restaurants, and plenty of shopping options, it’s easy to see why so many choose to call St. Elmo Living home. Residents also rave about the welcoming community vibe and the abundance of outdoor activities, making it a great choice for those who value connection and convenience.
St. Elmo Living caters to both pet enthusiasts and electric vehicle drivers, offering amenities tailored to their needs. For those with pets, the complex includes a dedicated dog park and allows up to two pets per unit, though certain breed restrictions apply. It’s an inviting choice for anyone with furry friends.
If you drive an electric vehicle, you’ll find on-site EV charging stations conveniently located in the secure parking area. Whether it’s your pets or your eco-conscious car, St. Elmo Living ensures you’re covered.
When renting at St. Elmo Living, there are a few extra costs to keep in mind. These include a $75 application fee, a $175 one-time administrative fee, and a $350 one-time pet fee if you have a pet. Pet owners should also expect to pay $25 in monthly pet rent. Additionally, certain units might come with specific fees, so it’s worth reaching out to the leasing office for details.
Knowing these expenses ahead of time can help you better plan your budget before making the move.
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