- Affordable Living: Average rent in San Marcos is $1,163/month – 25% lower than the U.S. average.
- Options for Everyone: From budget-friendly 1-bedroom units to luxury 3-bedroom townhomes.
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Top Picks:
- Emerson at Trace: Modern amenities, rents from $1,076, and up to 8 weeks free.
- Sendero Trace: Outdoor-friendly with private yards, starting at $1,188.
- Alta Center Point: Stylish finishes, rents from $1,175, and 8 weeks free rent.
- Arden 231: Sleek designs with rents starting at $1,150.
- Millbrook Commons: Detached homes with private yards, starting at $1,727.
- The Lantana: Competitive pricing from $1,333 with leasing specials.
Quick Comparison Table
| Complex | 1 Bedroom Rent | 2 Bedroom Rent | 3 Bedroom Rent | Built | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerson at Trace | $1,076–$2,745 | $1,381–$3,683 | $1,732–$4,845 | 2022 | Luxury amenities |
| Sendero Trace | $1,188–$1,481 | $1,459–$1,653 | $1,981–$2,092 | 2023 | Private yards |
| Alta Center Point | $1,175–$1,539 | $1,535–$1,885 | $2,545–$2,575 | 2023 | Stylish finishes |
| Arden 231 | $1,150–$1,845 | $1,675–$2,250 | $2,200–$2,575 | 2024 | Modern design |
| Millbrook Commons | N/A | N/A | $1,850–$2,199 | N/A | Detached homes, privacy |
| The Lantana | $1,333–$1,988 | N/A | N/A | N/A | Competitive pricing |
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Who Should Choose What?
- Budget-Conscious: Sendero Trace.
- Luxury Seekers: Emerson at Trace.
- Pet Owners: Emerson at Trace or Millbrook Commons.
- Remote Workers: Sendero Trace (coworking spaces).
Start your search now and take advantage of move-in specials and competitive rent pricing in San Marcos!
1. Emerson at Trace
Built in 2022 near I-35, Emerson at Trace offers 326 apartments and townhomes in ZIP code 78666. The property includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, designed with modern living in mind.
Monthly rents start at $1,076 for a 665 sq ft one-bedroom unit, while premium layouts can go up to $4,845. They’re also running a move-in special: "Spring Into Your New Home! Live up to 8 weeks free!* Restrictions apply. Contact the leasing team for details.
| Unit Type | Square Footage | Starting Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 665–924 sq ft | $1,076–$2,745 |
| 2 Bedroom | 987–1,090 sq ft | $1,381–$3,683 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,234–1,319 sq ft | $1,732–$4,189 |
Apartment Features:
Each unit comes with gourmet kitchens featuring quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and 42-inch cabinets. Other highlights include full-size washers and dryers, wood-style flooring, and ceiling fans.
Community Perks:
Residents enjoy access to a resort-style pool with a sun deck, a fitness center, a business center with a conference room, a pet spa, a bark park, outdoor grilling spaces, and courts for basketball and volleyball.
Additional costs include:
- Covered parking: $45/month
- Garage parking: $125/month
- Pet fee: $400 one-time + $20/month
While the property has low walk and bike scores, its easy access to I-35 makes it ideal for commuters traveling between Austin and San Antonio. Lease terms range from 6 to 18 months.
"Emerson Trace is a first-class apartment community. Pricing is fair and staff are extremely helpful. The best experience I have had in an apartment and can’t say enough good things." – Verified Renter, Emerson at Trace
2. Sendero Trace
Sendero Trace, located off I-35 near Tanger Outlets, provides convenient living with an emphasis on outdoor access. Managed by Greystar, this community includes 399 units spread across 15 buildings, with 85% of first-floor units featuring private yards.
| Unit Type | Square Footage | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | Various layouts | $1,188–$1,481 |
| 2 Bedroom | Various layouts | $1,459–$1,653 |
| 3 Bedroom | Various layouts | $1,981–$2,092 |
Each unit is designed with granite countertops, garden tubs, large windows that let in plenty of natural light, and in-unit washers and dryers.
The property offers a range of amenities, including a resort-style pool, a professional fitness studio, coworking spaces, a package locker system, a pet park with a washing station, and a resident lounge. Additional costs include $50 per month for parking, a $20 monthly pet fee, and a $750 security deposit.
With a 4.1/5 rating on Apartments.com, Sendero Trace stands out for its proximity to Tanger Outlets and convenient access to major highways.
3. Alta Center Point
Alta Center Point is a luxury apartment community located at 502 Commercial Lp in San Marcos, Texas. This three-story complex features 330 units designed with modern finishes and stylish details.
| Floor Plan Type | Square Footage | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 712–811 sq ft | $1,175–$1,539 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,075–1,152 sq ft | $1,535–$1,885 |
| 3 Bedroom | 1,623–1,747 sq ft | $2,545–$2,575 |
For qualified applicants, the property offers up to 8 weeks of free rent. Apartments include real-wood cabinetry, plank flooring, and stone countertops, emphasizing quality and attention to detail.
Additional Monthly Fees
- Internet Services: $65
- Doorstep Trash Collection: $25
- Pest Control: $3
- Administrative Fees: $6
Initial Fees: $75 application fee and a $150 holding deposit.
Alta Center Point has earned a 4.1/5 resident rating for its management and maintenance services. While its walk score is 46/100 and transit score is 0/100, the location offers easy highway access between Austin and San Antonio.
"I am happy to live at a brand new apartment complex with a spacious floor plan. The amenities are awesome! It’s a convenient location too. The staff here have been very friendly and helpful." – Verified Renter
The property is pet-friendly, though certain breed restrictions apply. Seasonal cricket activity is addressed through regular pest control services, ensuring a comfortable living experience.
4. Arden 231
Located along I-35 in San Marcos, Arden 231 brings a modern vibe to apartment living. Completed in 2024, this community includes 249 sleek and stylish apartment homes.
| Floor Plan Type | Monthly Rent Range | Deposit Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,150 – $1,845 | $250 – $450 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,675 – $2,250 | $250 – $450 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,200 – $2,575 | $250 – $450 |
Standout Apartment Features
Arden 231 apartments come equipped with kitchens designed for cooking enthusiasts. Expect stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and shaker cabinets. Common areas feature wood vinyl plank flooring, while bedrooms are carpeted for added comfort. Select units offer perks like double vanity sinks, wrap-around patios or balconies, and private yards for ground-floor units.
Community Perks
- Resort-style pool with tanning deck
- Open 24/7 fitness center
- Pickleball court
- Indoor dog spa and fenced dog park
- WiFi-enabled lounge and conference room
- Social lounge complete with billiards
Extra Monthly Costs
- Garage Rental: $125
- Storage Unit: $25
- Pet Rent: $25 per pet (max 2 pets)
- Pet Fee: One-time $400 fee
Arden 231 holds a 4.0/5 rating on Apartments.com. While resident reviews aren’t yet available, the community boasts secured corridors with interior access and 24-hour emergency maintenance.
Additional conveniences include package lockers for 24/7 mail service, bike storage, and online rent management. Its location offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment – perfect for commuters and those who love exploring the city.
5. Millbrook Commons
Millbrook Commons in San Marcos stands out with its detached single-family rental homes, offering more privacy than traditional apartments. Located along I-35, it caters to a variety of lifestyles with modern living options.
Here’s a quick look at the rental pricing:
| Home Type | Monthly Rent Range |
|---|---|
| 3 Bedroom | $1,850 – $2,199 |
| 4 Bedroom | $2,200 – $2,499 |
Move-In Special: Select homes start at $1,727 per month, with options for one month free on certain lease terms (restrictions apply).
Home Features
These homes come equipped with modern touches like Silestone countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood-style flooring. Each home also includes a private backyard, perfect for hosting gatherings or giving pets room to roam. A typical 3-bedroom home offers 1,319 sq ft of space, blending contemporary design with outdoor privacy.
Convenient Location
Millbrook Commons is ideally situated near key attractions and amenities, including:
- Stone Creek Crossing shopping center
- Tanger Outlets and San Marcos Premium Outlets
- Central Texas Medical Center
- San Marcos Nature Center and Wonder World Park
Leasing Details
- Income Requirement: Applicants must earn at least 3× the monthly rent (pre-tax).
- Pet Fee: $25 per month, per pet.
- Security Deposit: Determined after application approval.
- Short-Term Leases: Additional fees may apply for leases under 12 months.
Schools Nearby
Families will appreciate the community’s location within the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District. Nearby schools include:
- Texas Preparatory School
- Hernandez Elementary School
- Miller Middle School
- San Marcos High School
With its close proximity to shopping centers, medical facilities, and schools, Millbrook Commons is a great choice for families and professionals looking for a comfortable and convenient place to call home.
6. The Lantana
The Lantana combines modern living with competitive pricing and a range of amenities designed to suit various lifestyles.
Monthly Rent and Fees
Here’s a breakdown of the current costs at The Lantana:
| Charge | Amount | Payment Terms |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Rent | $1,333 – $1,988 | Monthly |
| Application Fee | $155 | One-time, per leaseholder |
| Security Deposit | $1,000 | Refundable, one-time |
| Cable TV & Internet | $65 | Monthly, per unit |
| Pest Control | $5 | Monthly, per unit |
| Trash Services | $28 | Monthly, per unit |
Utilities and Additional Expenses
In addition to the listed fees, you’ll need to account for usage-based utilities:
- Electricity (through a third-party provider)
- Water and wastewater charges
- Stormwater/drainage fee of $3 per month
- Renters liability insurance (cost depends on coverage)
These charges are paired with exclusive leasing offers to make living at The Lantana even more appealing.
Current Leasing Incentives
The property currently promotes a "Lease Today for 2 Weeks Free!" offer. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Verified income meeting property standards
- Positive credit history
- Clear background check
- Valid ID and proof of employment
Property Features
The Lantana offers a host of features to enhance your living experience, including:
- Professional on-site management team
- Dedicated maintenance staff
- Secure access systems
- Package receiving services
- Online rent payment options
For additional details, check out the Quick Comparison Guide below.
Quick Comparison Guide
Here’s a quick overview of two top apartment communities in San Marcos, conveniently located near I‑35. This guide highlights the main differences based on the details provided earlier.
Rental Pricing Comparison
| Complex | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | Built |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerson at Trace | $1,076–$2,151 | $1,381–$3,683 | $1,732–$4,845 | 2022 |
| Sendero Trace | $1,188–$1,481 | $1,459–$1,653 | $1,981–$2,092 | 2023 |
Amenities Comparison Matrix
| Amenity | Emerson at Trace | Sendero Trace |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fitness Center | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pet Amenities | Dog Park, Pet Washing Station | Pet-friendly |
| Business Features | Business Center | Coworking Space, Conference Room |
| Sports Facilities | Basketball Court, Volleyball Court | – |
| Additional Features | Playground, Picnic Area | Clubhouse |
Unit Features
- Emerson at Trace: Offers private yards (in select units), home office spaces, ceiling fans, and modern appliances.
Location and Accessibility
Both properties are conveniently positioned near Highway I‑35, providing easy access to:
- Downtown San Marcos (just a 5–10 minute drive)
- A variety of shopping centers within 1–3 miles
- Local hospitals and clinics
- Parks and recreational spots
Resident Reviews and Ratings
- Emerson at Trace: 4.1/5 (based on 9 reviews)
- Sendero Trace: 4.1/5 (based on 4 reviews)
Residents frequently highlight the professional management teams and the high-quality finishes in both communities.
Value Considerations
- Budget-Friendly Option: Sendero Trace offers competitive pricing for one- and two-bedroom units.
- Luxury Features: Emerson at Trace stands out with its extensive amenity offerings and upscale touches.
For more details, check out the earlier sections for a deeper dive into each community.
Summary and Next Steps
Using the comparisons above, this guide helps you match your renter profile with the right apartment complex along I-35 and move forward with your search.
Best Matches by Renter Profile
| Renter Type | Recommended Complex | Why It’s a Good Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Sendero Trace | Affordable 1–2 bedroom options starting at $1,188 |
| Luxury Seekers | Emerson at Trace | High-end amenities like a TV lounge and media room |
| Pet Owners | Emerson at Trace | $0 pet fee and access to an on-site dog park |
| Remote Workers | Sendero Trace | Resident lounge, coworking space, and conference room |
| Large Families | Emerson at Trace | Spacious 3-bedroom options |
Once you’ve found the right complex, follow these steps to start your application:
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Gather Documentation
- Have your ID, proof of income, guarantor contacts (if needed), vehicle records, and pet-related documents ready.
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Plan Your Budget
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Be prepared for these costs:
- Application fee: $50–$75
- Administrative fee: $200
- Security deposit: $750
- First month’s rent
- Renter’s insurance
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Be prepared for these costs:
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Schedule Tours
- Reach out to the leasing office or use a locating service like Taco Street Locating. Take advantage of the easy access along I-35.
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Submit Your Application
- Applications are usually reviewed within 24–48 hours.
The rental rates and availability listed reflect March 2025 pricing. Contact the properties for the most up-to-date rates and specials. For personalized help and easier tour scheduling, consider using a professional apartment locator service.
