Looking for modern apartments with great transit access in Austin? Medina Highlands, built in 2023, offers studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments starting at $1,223/month. Located at 212 W Highland Mall Blvd in the Highland neighborhood, it’s right across from the Highland MetroRail station, making commuting easy. Key features include smart home technology, a resort-style pool, a fitness center, and co-working spaces. The community also supports public service workers with an affordable housing program.
Key Highlights:
- Pricing: Studio apartments from $1,223; two-bedroom units up to $2,730.
- Move-in Special: Up to 10 weeks free rent on select units.
- Amenities: Pool with cabanas, pet-friendly policies, and secure package services.
- Location Perks: Walkable to Austin Community College Highland campus, dining, and shopping; Bike Score of 94.
Ideal for students, professionals, and small families, Medina Highlands blends convenience and modern living with easy access to parks, schools, and downtown Austin.
Community Features and Amenities
Pool, Fitness Center, and Co-Working Spaces
Medina Highlands offers an outdoor pool complete with private cabanas, comfortable seating areas, and barbecue grills – perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings. The fitness center is equipped with high-end gear, so you can skip the gym membership and stay active right at home. For those who work or study remotely, the community includes a dedicated co-working lounge and an internet iCafe, providing a professional and productive environment without stepping outside. There’s even a game room for unwinding after a busy day. Plus, pet owners and tech enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, too.
Pet Facilities and Smart Home Technology
Your pets are welcome at Medina Highlands! Both cats and dogs are allowed, with a limit of two pets per apartment. There’s a $400 initial pet fees and monthly rent per pet. Every apartment comes equipped with smart home technology, including USB charging outlets. Select units also feature luxurious touches like 10-foot ceilings, stone countertops, and in-unit washers and dryers to make daily life more convenient.
Security and Resident Services
Medina Highlands prioritizes safety and convenience, offering on-site management and maintenance teams to address any concerns quickly. A secure package service ensures your deliveries are handled with care, while an online resident portal makes it easy to pay rent or submit service requests. Parking options include both garage spaces and open lot areas, and the entire property is smoke-free, creating a clean and comfortable environment for everyone.
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Floor Plans and Pricing
Medina Highlands Floor Plans and Pricing Comparison Chart
Available Floor Plans
Medina Highlands provides a variety of living spaces tailored to fit different lifestyles. With studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options, there’s something for everyone. One-bedroom apartments range from cozy 540-square-foot layouts to larger 720-square-foot designs, offering choices that suit both budget and space needs. For those needing more room, the two-bedroom units come with either one or two bathrooms, making them a great choice for roommates or small families. Each apartment includes features like walk-in closets, stainless steel appliances, and private patios or balconies. Some units even offer kitchen pantries with prep islands, adding convenience to your cooking and storage needs.
Current Pricing
As of March 2026, the pricing for these apartments is competitive. One-bedroom units start at $1,223 per month, while two-bedroom options range from $2,073 to $2,730, depending on the size and included features. To make the deal even better, the community is offering up to 10 weeks free on select units. This promotion can help offset your initial housing costs significantly. Keep in mind that these prices exclude the security deposit, along with a $400 pet fee and $25 monthly pet rent per pet. Lease terms are flexible, ranging from 12 to 18 months. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options:
Floor Plan Comparison Table
| Floor Plan Type | Square Footage | Bathrooms | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | N/A | 1 | $1,223+ | Students, singles |
| 1 Bedroom (Small) | 540 – 598 sq. ft. | 1 | $1,223 – $1,498 | Young professionals, individuals |
| 1 Bedroom (Large) | 720 sq. ft. | 1 | $1,640 – $1,655 | Couples, remote workers |
| 2 Bedroom | N/A | 1 – 2 | $2,073 – $2,730 | Roommates, small families |
Medina Highlands also supports Austin’s essential workforce through an affordable housing program. If you work in public service roles like education, healthcare, or emergency services, reach out to the leasing office to see if you qualify for reduced rates.
Neighborhood and Lifestyle
Nearby Parks, Restaurants, and Shopping
The Highland neighborhood offers a convenient location for both everyday needs and weekend adventures. With North Lamar Boulevard nearby, residents can explore a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. For those who enjoy the outdoors, green spaces like Reilly Elementary‘s playground are just 0.3 miles away, perfect for a quick outing.
For more extensive recreational opportunities, Gus Garcia District Park hosts community events regularly. Iconic Austin spots like Lady Bird Lake, Barton Springs Pool, and the Butler Hike and Bike Trail are all easily accessible. If you’re up for a weekend getaway, Lake Travis provides boating and ziplining experiences, with Lake Travis Zipline Adventures boasting a 4.5/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews. Nature enthusiasts can also visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, known for its stunning scenery. Note that entry costs $12 per vehicle, with additional charges per person.
With these amenities close by and convenient transportation options, residents can enjoy a blend of local charm and outdoor exploration.
Transportation and Getting Around
Living in Medina Highlands means getting around is a breeze. The Highland MetroRail station is right across the street, offering direct access to downtown Austin and other key areas along the Red Line. The neighborhood is also well-suited for biking, with nearby shopping, dining, and the ACC Highland campus all within walking distance.
These transit options make it easy to navigate the area, highlighting the neighborhood’s connected and lively atmosphere.
Neighborhood Character
This area is known for being walkable and transit-friendly, with landmarks and amenities that make life convenient. The focus here is on accessibility to education, transportation, and daily services, reducing the need for car travel. With Austin’s nearly 300 sunny days a year and an average temperature of 68°F, the neighborhood’s outdoor-friendly lifestyle is a natural fit for its residents.
Pros and Cons
Benefits of Living Here
Medina Highlands brings several perks to South Austin living. Its direct connection to the Highland MetroRail station makes commuting to downtown and other areas a breeze – no car required. Plus, with a stellar Bike Score of 94 out of 100, it earns the title of a "Biker’s Paradise".
The property itself boasts modern 2023 construction, featuring 10-foot ceilings, smart home technology, and USB outlets, blending convenience with style. For new residents, current move-in specials help ease the financial burden of settling in, and the affordable housing program supports public service workers vital to Austin’s community. Families will appreciate the access to well-rated public schools like Reilly Elementary and McCallum High School, both scoring 9/10.
Possible Downsides
That said, not everything about Medina Highlands is perfect. While the MetroRail access is convenient, its proximity to the station and North Lamar Boulevard can lead to higher noise levels and more traffic. Pet owners should also note that pet fees are not insignificant.
For families with kids, the school options are a mixed bag. While the elementary and high schools shine, Webb Middle School lags with a disappointing 2/10 rating. Another challenge is the limited number of resident reviews, which makes it tricky to gauge the quality of property management. On top of that, rental rates don’t include required deposits and admin fees. Lastly, those seeking a quieter, suburban feel might find the area’s urban density less appealing.
Pros and Cons Comparison Table
| Feature | Pro | Con |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Direct MetroRail access and a 94 Bike Score | Proximity to rail and major roads may mean noise and traffic |
| Education | Access to top-rated elementary and high schools (both 9/10) | Middle school rating is only 2/10 |
| Construction | Modern 2023 build with smart home technology | Few resident reviews make management quality unclear |
| Financials | Move-in specials reduce initial costs | High pet fees ($400 upfront + $25/month per pet) |
| Lifestyle | Walkable to retail, dining, and ACC Highland | Urban density might not suit those seeking a quieter suburban vibe |
Who Should Live Here and Similar Communities
Best Fit for These Renters
Medina Highlands is a great choice for a mix of residents. Students and ACC Highland faculty will appreciate the convenience of being close to campus. Downtown commuters can take advantage of the direct MetroRail access, making their daily trips easier. Remote workers will find the co-working spaces and internet iCafe particularly appealing. Additionally, Austin’s essential workforce can benefit from the affordable housing program offered here.
The community is also pet-friendly and caters to active urban dwellers who enjoy a high Bike Score and being near the retail and dining options along North Lamar Boulevard.
Now, let’s see how Medina Highlands compares with other nearby apartment communities.
Similar Apartment Communities
Here’s a quick look at how Medina Highlands stacks up against other options in the area:
| Community | Starting Price | Key Amenities | Location/Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medina Highlands | $1,223+ | Co-working lounge, Pool with cabanas, MetroRail access | Highland (Austin) |
| Broadstone North ATX | $1,405+ | Luxury finishes, Fitness center | North Austin |
| Shelby Ranch | $1,284+ | Studio to 3-bedroom options | Austin |
| Lirica | $1,079+ | Affordable entry pricing, Studio-2BR layouts | North/East Austin |
Medina Highlands falls in the middle of the price range, with rents starting at $1,223 and going up to $2,730. While Broadstone North ATX begins at a steeper $1,405, Medina Highlands remains a cost-effective option with its MetroRail connectivity. On the other hand, Lirica offers a lower starting price of $1,079, but it lacks the same transit convenience. Shelby Ranch, with its larger 3-bedroom units, is better suited for families, though it doesn’t offer the same ease of access to public transportation.
Final Thoughts on Medina Highlands
Medina Highlands brings together stylish modern design, excellent transit options, and financial perks, making it a standout choice in Austin’s rental market. With competitive pricing and enticing move-in promotions, it’s an appealing option for renters looking to balance quality and affordability.
Beyond its impressive amenities, the location adds even more value. Direct MetroRail access makes commuting downtown Austin a breeze, while students benefit from being close to Austin Community College Highland campus. This location is also ideal for those looking for apartments near the University of Texas that offer similar move-in specials. For remote workers, the dedicated co-working spaces provide an ideal setup to maintain productivity while keeping work and home life separate. Plus, the Stake rewards network offers cash-back opportunities and credit-building perks, underscoring Medina Highlands’ commitment to affordability and quality living for Austin’s essential workforce.
Completed in 2023, the community showcases modern touches like 10-foot ceilings, stone countertops, and smart home technology. These features pair perfectly with the Highland neighborhood’s urban, active vibe. With a resort-style pool and cabanas, a cutting-edge fitness center, and a stellar Bike Score of 94, Medina Highlands makes it easy to embrace an active lifestyle – no car required for daily errands.
FAQs
What’s the total move-in cost?
The move-in costs for Medina Highlands Apartments typically cover the first month’s rent along with a pet fee. The pet fee includes a one-time payment of $400, plus an additional $25 per month per pet. Details about other deposits and fees aren’t specified in the available information.
How noisy is it near the MetroRail?
Medina Highlands Apartments sit near the Highland MetroRail station, which means you might hear the occasional passing train. How much noise you notice can depend on a few things: the location of your unit, the building’s soundproofing, and how often trains run. If you’re someone who prefers quieter surroundings, it might be a good idea to visit the property at different times of the day. You could also ask the leasing office about any soundproofing measures or features designed to reduce noise.
What utilities and fees are extra?
Additional expenses may involve utilities and specific fees, such as pet-related charges. For instance, there’s a $400 pet fee along with an additional $25 per month for each pet. Since details about other utilities or fees aren’t provided, it’s a good idea to reach out to the leasing office for clarification.