Looking for a great deal on rent in Central Austin? This summer, renters can take advantage of free rent specials ranging from 1 to 2 months (and even 10 weeks at some properties). With vacancy rates climbing to 15.2% and average rents down 17% since 2022, the market is stacked in your favor.
Here’s why now is the time to rent in Central Austin:
- Free Rent Specials: Many apartments are offering 1-2 months free rent, saving you thousands.
- Lower Rents: Two-bedroom units dropped to $1,431/month (down from $1,726 in 2022).
- More Listings: Active lease listings hit 7,057 in June 2025, giving renters plenty of options.
- Modern Amenities: Properties offer perks like EV charging stations, co-working spaces, and fitness centers.
If you’re a remote worker or relocating, Central Austin’s vibrant lifestyle and renter-friendly market make this the perfect time to move. From The Albright’s 10 weeks of free rent to Lenox Burnet’s live/work units, there’s something for everyone.
Keep reading for a breakdown of the best deals, rent trends, and tips for saving on your next lease.
Central Austin Rent Trends and Living Experience
Current Rent Prices in Central Austin
The rental market in Central Austin is proving to be favorable for tenants. As of July 2025, the average rent in Austin is $1,435 per month, which is 12% below the national average of $1,636. Rent prices break down as follows: studio apartments average $1,243 per month, one-bedroom units are $1,435, and two-bedroom apartments come in at $1,843. Over the past year, rents have dropped by 2%, saving the average renter about $28 per month.
The decline in rental prices is even more pronounced for two-bedroom units, which fell from $1,725 in mid-2022 to $1,426 by February 2025 – a 17% drop. Median rents have also decreased by 22%, now sitting at $1,399, which is $400 less than three years ago. Looking ahead, CoStar anticipates the average asking rent in Austin will reach $1,557 by the end of 2025, indicating that this downward trend may continue. These lower rents not only ease financial burdens for renters but also make the area more accessible for enjoying its many local amenities.
Living in Central Austin
Central Austin offers a mix of vibrant city life and a relaxed neighborhood vibe, with easy access to dining, entertainment, and green spaces. As rents decline, the area is becoming a magnet for remote and hybrid workers, reshaping the community’s dynamics.
Currently, 38% of new leases are signed by remote and hybrid workers, many of whom are relocating from states like California, Washington, and New York. These newcomers bring an average income of $128,500, which is 22% higher than Austin’s median income. Among them, tech professionals make up 47%, followed by those in finance (18%) and healthcare (12%). Their arrival has a noticeable impact on the local economy, with each household contributing approximately $4,200 per month within 60 days of moving in.
July 2025 Rent Special Trends
The shifting market has prompted landlords to roll out enticing rent specials to attract tenants. With vacancy rates climbing from 6.5% in 2021 to 15.2% by the end of 2024, these incentives have become widespread.
"Nearly all apartments in Austin are doing some sort of specials for move-ins", says Yasmine Acebo, an agent at Pauly Presley Realty.
This trend is fueled by a surge in new rental properties. In 2024 alone, 32,000 rental units were added to the market, compared to 21,000 in 2023 and just over 10,000 in 2019.
"Supply and demand dynamics are driving these incentives", explains Cindi Reed, Director of Sales at MRI Apartment Data.
Adding to the market’s saturation, many homeowners who struggled to sell their properties have opted to lease them instead. Active lease listings have nearly tripled over three years, rising from 2,478 in June 2022 to 7,057 in June 2025, marking a 6.2% increase from June 2024.
"The rental market here is saturated with availability", notes Jody Lockshin, a veteran Austin broker and owner of Habitat Hunters.
This surplus of available rentals has created a renter-friendly environment, allowing tenants to negotiate better deals and take advantage of significant savings through free rent specials. With CoStar projecting further rent decreases through 2025, this trend is expected to persist.
8 Central Austin Apartments with Free Rent Specials
Here’s a roundup of eight apartment communities in Central Austin currently offering free rent specials to help you cut down on move-in expenses.
The Albright: 10 Weeks Free Rent
The Albright is offering a generous 10 weeks of free rent, making it a prime choice for those looking to save on upfront costs in Central Austin.
Saint George: 2 Months Free Rent
At Saint George, you can take advantage of two months of free rent, giving you more flexibility as you settle into your new home.
Lenox Burnet: 2 Months Free Rent
Lenox Burnet provides two months of free rent in its modern, six-story, 314-unit complex that opened in 2024. Managed by Avenue5 Residential, LLC, the property boasts a 4.0/5 rating based on reviews of other properties under the same management.
Apartment Features:
- Quartz countertops and subway tile backsplashes
- Wood-style plank flooring
- Select units with floor-to-ceiling windows, glass-enclosed showers, and chef-inspired kitchen islands
- Live/work units featuring 12-foot ceilings and storefront entries, ideal for remote workers
Community Amenities:
- Podcast studio and wellness center with fitness-on-demand
- Two relaxation pools with a fire pit
- EV charging stations and a pet park with a spa
- Sky lounge with a patio offering scenic views
Residents consistently rate the location and staff at 4.5/5, while parking, maintenance, noise levels, amenities, and overall value each earn a solid 4/5. Situated in the Allandale neighborhood along the Burnet corridor, Lenox Burnet also provides easy access to local dining and shopping hotspots.
The Brentwood: 2 Months Free Rent
The Brentwood is another Central Austin option offering two months of free rent, helping you ease into your new living space.
Crestview Commons: 2 Months Free Rent
Crestview Commons joins the list with its two months of free rent, making it a competitive choice in the area.
The Anderson: 2 Months Free Rent
The Anderson also offers two months of free rent, giving renters an attractive incentive to move in.
AVE Austin North Lamar: 2 Months Free Rent
Located on North Lamar, AVE Austin North Lamar provides two months of free rent, adding to the variety of options in Central Austin.
Revolve ATX: 1 Month Free Rent
Revolve ATX rounds out the list with one month of free rent, perfect for those looking for a shorter-term incentive.
These specials highlight the competitive nature of Central Austin’s rental market, where move-in incentives can save renters thousands over the course of a lease. Whether you’re drawn to modern amenities or prime locations, these offers showcase the variety of benefits available to prospective tenants.
Apartment Comparison: Specials and Features
Let’s take a closer look at Central Austin apartments, comparing rent specials, pricing, and standout features. This breakdown helps you weigh your options and pinpoint the apartment that best fits your lifestyle.
Central Austin Apartment Comparison Chart
| Apartment | Free Rent Special | Studio Avg. | 1-Bedroom Avg. | 2-Bedroom Avg. | Key Amenities | Neighborhood Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Albright | 10 weeks free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Standard modern features | Central location |
| Saint George | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Premium finishes | Urban lifestyle |
| Lenox Burnet | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Live/work units, podcast studio, wellness center | Allandale/Burnet corridor |
| The Brentwood | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Family-friendly features | Brentwood neighborhood |
| Crestview Commons | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Community-focused amenities | Crestview area |
| The Anderson | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Modern conveniences | Anderson Mill vicinity |
| AVE Austin North Lamar | 2 months free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Transit-oriented features | North Lamar corridor |
| Revolve ATX | 1 month free | $1,246 | $1,434 | $1,842 | Contemporary design | Central Austin core |
If you’re looking for the biggest rent special, The Albright takes the lead with 10 weeks of free rent – equivalent to about 2.5 months of savings. This can translate to $3,585 to $4,605 in rent savings, depending on the unit size, outpacing the standard 2-month offers seen at most other properties.
Across the board, studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments average $1,246, $1,434, and $1,842, respectively, aligning with current market trends.
While the rent specials are enticing, amenities often become the deciding factor. For example, Lenox Burnet shines with its live/work units, podcast studio, and wellness center, making it a great choice for remote workers. Similarly, AVE Austin North Lamar offers transit-friendly features, appealing to those who prioritize easy commuting.
Location also plays a big role. The Brentwood provides a quieter, family-oriented atmosphere, while Saint George caters to those seeking an urban lifestyle. Meanwhile, Lenox Burnet offers proximity to dining and shopping in the Allandale area, and AVE Austin North Lamar benefits from its spot along a major transit corridor.
Finally, these rent specials are even more appealing when you consider that Austin households spend an average of 19.6% of their income on rent, compared to the national average of 29.3%. This means renters in Austin can enjoy a bit more financial breathing room, with the potential to negotiate better deals.
Beyond savings, community-focused features like co-working spaces, EV charging stations, and pet-friendly amenities can enhance day-to-day living, making these apartments more than just a place to stay – they’re a place to thrive.
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How Taco Street Locating Helps with Your Apartment Search
Taco Street Locating makes apartment hunting in Central Austin easier by offering expert advice and personalized services. With over 700 satisfied clients and more than 180 5-star reviews, their reputation speaks for itself.
Free Apartment Search Services
One of the best things about Taco Street Locating? Their services are completely free for renters. Instead of charging you, they receive a commission from the apartment buildings. This setup lets them focus on finding the perfect apartment that matches your needs.
The process starts with a one-on-one consultation to understand your budget, preferred location, lifestyle, and must-have features. From there, they create a custom spreadsheet packed with all the details you need – pricing, availability, building specs, square footage, and even video tours.
But they don’t stop at spreadsheets. Taco Street Locating also offers guided apartment tours, whether in person or virtually. They’re there to help you explore different properties and neighborhoods, all while keeping the process transparent. By the time you’re ready to apply, you’ll have all the information you need to make a confident choice.
Central Austin Area Knowledge
Taco Street Locating focuses on modern apartment complexes built after 2005 in Central Austin. Their expertise spans areas north of UT Austin and below Highway 183. These newer properties often feature modern gyms, updated appliances, central AC, well-maintained pools, and standardized floor plans.
Beyond just buildings, they know the neighborhoods inside and out. Whether it’s walkability, access to restaurants and entertainment, or proximity to hotspots like UT Austin, Downtown, or North Austin, their insights ensure you’ll find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. They even offer a detailed neighborhood guide to help you compare options.
For example, they can help you weigh the pros and cons of Echo in the Triangle area versus other properties or compare spots like West Koenig Flats, Elan Parkside, and Mueller apartments based on walkability and amenities.
If you’re looking for rent specials, their understanding of market trends is invaluable. They know that modern Central Austin apartments typically start around $1,200 for studios, $1,400 for one-bedrooms, $1,900 for two-bedrooms, and $2,200 for three-bedrooms. With their up-to-date market data, Taco Street Locating ensures your search is efficient and informed.
Conclusion
July 2025 presents a prime opportunity for renters in Central Austin. The rental market has shifted significantly in favor of tenants, with vacancy rates soaring to 15.2% by the end of 2024, a sharp increase from just 6.5% in 2021. This surplus of available apartments has created intense competition among landlords, leading to enticing perks like free rent to attract tenants.
Austin has also seen a nearly 9% drop in rent prices, marking the steepest decline among major U.S. cities. With more choices than ever, property owners are lowering rents and offering deals to stay competitive.
From The Albright’s 10 weeks of free rent to Revolve ATX’s offer of one month free, these promotions highlight the renter-friendly conditions in today’s market.
Main Points for July 2025 Renters
The current rental landscape in Austin is packed with opportunities that renters can take full advantage of.
Key takeaways:
- Leverage declining rates now: With rent prices expected to decrease further throughout 2025, according to CoStar forecasts, now is the time to act. Waiting until Q2 2026, when rates are projected to rise, could mean missing out on the best deals. Plus, Austin’s cost of living is currently 3.1% below the national average, making these free rent specials even more appealing.
- Seek expert guidance: With an abundance of available apartments, navigating the market can be overwhelming. Expert assistance can help renters compare neighborhoods, amenities, and lease terms to make well-informed decisions.
Right now, Central Austin renters have a unique chance to secure high-quality apartments while taking advantage of significant savings through promotional offers.
FAQs
How can I take advantage of free rent specials at Central Austin apartments in 2025?
To take advantage of free rent specials in Central Austin, begin by checking out properties currently offering these promotions. For instance, The Albright is giving up to 10 weeks free, while Saint George, Lenox Burnet, The Brentwood, Crestview Commons, The Anderson, and AVE Austin North Lamar are all offering 2 months free. Meanwhile, Revolve ATX has a 1-month free rent deal.
Once you’ve found a property that interests you, reach out to the leasing office directly. Confirm the availability of the offer, check eligibility requirements, and review the lease terms. These deals often come with tight deadlines, so acting quickly is essential to secure the discount.
Also, keep tabs on the local rental market. With prices trending downward, 2025 is shaping up to be a favorable year for renters in Austin. This could be the perfect opportunity to negotiate and lock in a lease that works for your budget.
Why are rent prices dropping in Central Austin?
Rent Prices in Central Austin Are Dropping
Central Austin is seeing a noticeable dip in rent prices, thanks to an oversupply of rental units and a slower housing market. Over the year from May 2024 to May 2025, rents fell by nearly 9%. In fact, some reports suggest rents have dropped as much as 17% since their peak in 2022.
On top of that, broader economic pressures like higher interest rates and inflation have made it tougher for many renters, which has further pushed prices down. This shift in the market is opening the door for renters to find more budget-friendly housing in the area.
What amenities can I expect from Central Austin apartments offering these rent specials?
Central Austin apartments with rent specials often feature a range of modern amenities designed to elevate your living experience. Residents can take advantage of perks like resort-style pools to cool off, state-of-the-art fitness centers for workouts, and outdoor lounges ideal for unwinding or catching up with friends. Many communities also include extras like yoga studios, smart home features, and pet-friendly areas to suit a variety of lifestyles.
Inside these apartments, you’ll discover spacious floor plans, fully equipped kitchens, in-unit laundry facilities, and air conditioning to keep things comfortable year-round. Additional benefits often include secure parking, Wi-Fi access, and essential safety features like fire and carbon monoxide detectors, making these apartments a practical and stylish choice for city living.
