Key Highlights:
- Rent Prices: Starting at $1,150 for 1-bedroom units, up to $1,875+ for 3-bedroom units.
- Amenities: Saltwater pool, 24/7 fitness center, pickleball court, dog park, playground, and gated entry.
- Location Perks: Close to I-35, tech campuses, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, and Pflugerville ISD schools.
- Extras: Covered parking ($45), attached garages ($140–$200), storage units ($50), and pet-friendly policies ($15/month per pet).
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Mandalay | The Domain | Mueller Area Apartments | East Austin New Builds | Parmer South |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Rent | $1,150–$1,190 | $1,199+ | $1,445+ | $1,800+ | $540–$2,332 |
| 3-Bedroom Rent | $1,875+ | Not available | $2,925+ | $2,795+ | $862–$2,775 |
| Walk Score | 18 (Car-dependent) | Higher | Moderate | 89 (Walkable) | Moderate |
| Key Amenities | Saltwater pool, dog park | Rooftop bars, luxury shopping | Parks, trails, lake | Designer apartments, coworking spaces | Resort-style pools, fitness center |
Mandalay is ideal for those seeking affordable, family-friendly housing with modern amenities. However, if walkability or urban lifestyle is a priority, explore options like East Austin or The Domain.
Mandalay Property Details
Mandalay Apartment Homes combines modern living with a host of amenities, all set within a well-maintained property. One of its highlights is a salt-water pool, complete with built-in BBQ grills and a cozy fire pit for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24/7 fitness center, which features a variety of workout machines, a yoga and dance studio, and professional locker rooms. For those who love outdoor activities, the property includes a pickleball court and a custom playground.
Apartment Features and Monthly Add-ons
Mandalay offers a range of in-unit features and optional services to enhance your living experience:
| Apartment Features | Monthly Add-ons |
|---|---|
| • Stainless steel appliances | Covered parking: $45 |
| • Washer/dryer hookups | Attached garages: $140-$200 |
| • Central air conditioning | Pet rent: $15 |
| • Dishwasher & microwave | Storage unit: $50 |
The community prioritizes convenience and security with gated entry, an online maintenance portal, and a package service. For residents without in-unit laundry, the on-site facility is equipped with 8 washers and 8 dryers.
Prime Location and Accessibility
Mandalay’s location offers easy access to key destinations, making it ideal for busy professionals and families. Here’s a quick look at nearby spots:
| Distance | Destination |
|---|---|
| 1.3 miles | Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park |
| 0.8 miles | Parmer Village Shopping |
| 0.9 miles | Tech Ridge Center |
| 5.0 miles | The Domain |
Situated near I-35 and Tech Ridge Blvd/Parmer Lane, the property provides convenient access to major employers and shopping hubs. While the area has a walk score of 18, reflecting its car-dependent nature, it does offer some transit options with a transit score of 32.
Community Standards and Nearby Attractions
Mandalay maintains high standards with recent upgrades, such as stainless steel appliances and ceiling fans in bedrooms. The management team has earned a solid reputation for responsiveness and bilingual communication, contributing to a 4.0 out of 5 rating on Apartments.com.
For outdoor lovers, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park and Copperfield Nature Trail, just 1.8 miles away, provide great opportunities for recreation. Grocery needs are easily met with nearby H-E-B and Walmart, while The Domain offers upscale shopping and dining options just a short drive away.
1. The Domain Apartments
The Domain offers a vibrant urban living experience tailored for young professionals in North Austin’s "second downtown".
Price Comparison
| Unit Type | Residences at the Domain | Mandalay |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | Starting at $1,150 | Not available |
| 1-Bedroom | Starting at $1,199 | $1,150 – $1,190 |
| 2-Bedroom | Starting at $2,124 | $1,525 – $1,650 |
| 3-Bedroom | Not available | Starting at $1,875 |
When it comes to 1-bedroom units, prices at The Domain and Mandalay are quite similar. However, for 2-bedroom apartments, The Domain’s rates are higher, reflecting its desirable location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Living at The Domain means access to amenities designed with modern urban lifestyles in mind. Residents can enjoy resort-style pools, 24-hour fitness centers, and pet-friendly spaces. Additional conveniences include:
- High-speed internet
- Furnished housing options
- Rent reporting services
Location Benefits
The Domain’s location comes with several perks:
- Proximity to Employers: Close to major companies like Indeed, Amazon, Facebook, and Vrbo.
- Entertainment Options: Enjoy rooftop bars, upscale dining, and luxury shopping.
- Transportation Access: Features five color-coded parking garages and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
The average resident at The Domain is 36 years old, and the typical monthly rent is $1,761. These features contribute to a high level of resident satisfaction.
Resident Experience
With a rating of 3.8 out of 5, residents appreciate The Domain’s walkable layout and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area offers many of the perks of downtown Austin but without the heavy traffic. For tech professionals and those drawn to a metropolitan vibe, The Domain is an appealing option – even with its higher costs for larger units.
2. Mueller Area Apartments
Located just three miles from downtown Austin, the Mueller neighborhood offers a variety of apartment options with pricing and amenities that differ from Mandalay.
Price Comparison
| Property | Studio | 1-Bedroom | 2-Bedroom | 3-Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mandalay | N/A | $1,150 – $1,190 | $1,525 – $1,650 | $1,875+ |
| AMLI Branch Park | $1,808+ | $2,022+ | $2,714+ | N/A |
| Mosaic at Mueller | N/A | $1,445+ | $1,755+ | $2,925+ |
| Rivette Tower | $1,814+ | $1,972+ | $2,945+ | $3,998+ |
| SYNC at Mueller | N/A | $1,665+ | $2,015+ | $1,780+ |
While Mueller apartments tend to have higher rents than Mandalay, there are budget-friendly options like Aldrich 51, where one-bedroom units start at $1,060. This affordability, combined with the neighborhood’s perks, makes Mueller an attractive option for a range of renters.
Neighborhood Advantages
Mueller isn’t just about apartments – it’s a community with features designed to enhance day-to-day living:
- Outdoor Spaces: 140 acres of parks, 13 miles of trails, and the scenic 30-acre Mueller Lake Park.
- Easy Navigation: Wide sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes for hassle-free movement.
- Convenient Shopping and Dining: The Mueller Market District and Aldrich Street host an H-E-B grocery store, local shops, and a variety of restaurants.
- Community Vibes: The Texas Farmer’s Market at Mueller Lake Park runs every Sunday, fostering a welcoming and connected atmosphere.
Modern Living Features
Mueller apartments come equipped with amenities designed for comfort and convenience:
- Resort-style pools
- Cutting-edge fitness centers
- Package lockers
- On-site professional management
- Outdoor grilling areas
Many properties also offer deposit alternatives through Obligo, adding flexibility for renters. These features complement the neighborhood’s vibrant and accessible setting.
Location Benefits
Mueller’s location is a major draw, offering easy access to key destinations:
- Just 3 miles from downtown Austin
- Only 2 miles from the University of Texas
- Close to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Designed with sustainability in mind, over 20% of the area is dedicated to parkland and open spaces. With approximately 6,900 residences – about half of which are rentals – Mueller provides a mix of urban convenience and natural surroundings. It’s a thoughtfully planned community, offering a more structured living experience compared to Mandalay’s setting.
3. East Austin New Builds
East Austin’s new developments offer a sharp contrast to Mandalay’s more budget-conscious, car-reliant style. These properties emphasize urban living, walkability, and state-of-the-art features, catering to those who seek a vibrant and connected lifestyle.
Price Comparison
| Property Type | East Austin Average | Sentral East Austin | Mandalay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,495 | $1,323+ | N/A |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,725 | $1,800+ | $1,150 – $1,190 |
| 2-Bedroom | $2,140 | $2,500+ | $1,525 – $1,650 |
| 3-Bedroom | $2,795 | N/A | $1,875 |
Renting in East Austin comes with a higher price tag, thanks to its prime location and premium amenities. Sentral East Austin, one of the area’s standout new builds, exemplifies this trend with rental rates ranging from $1,323 to $10,000 per month. These price points reflect the neighborhood’s focus on offering a more walkable and community-oriented lifestyle.
Location Benefits
East Austin developments shine when it comes to accessibility and convenience, offering far better walk, bike, and transit scores compared to Mandalay:
- Walk Score: 89 vs. Mandalay’s 18
- Bike Score: 91 vs. Mandalay’s not rated
- Transit Score: 48 vs. Mandalay’s 32
Residents enjoy quick access to key destinations:
- Just minutes from downtown Austin
- A 15-minute drive to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
- Walking distance to local restaurants and shops
- Close to the Texas State Capitol and the University of Texas campus
Modern Amenities
East Austin’s new builds, like Sentral, come packed with features designed for modern living. These include:
- Designer-furnished apartments
- Dedicated coworking spaces
- Community areas connected via integrated apps
- Smart package lockers
"East Austin is ideal for buyers who value culture, creativity, and proximity to city life without the uniformity of master-planned suburbs." – Darsh Parikh, Real Estate Agent, Compass
Resident Experience
What truly sets East Austin apart is the resident experience. Sentral East Austin, for instance, boasts a 4.3/5 blended score on Apartments.com. Residents highlight several key aspects:
- Professional and responsive management
- Sleek, modern design touches
- A lively and welcoming community vibe
- A prime location near entertainment and dining options
East Austin’s creative energy and dynamic urban environment make it especially attractive to young professionals and those looking for an active, engaging lifestyle. This stands in stark contrast to Mandalay’s simpler, more subdued offerings.
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4. Parmer South Living Options
Parmer South stands out as another appealing choice for renters in Northeast Austin. This area boasts a variety of apartment communities, competitive rental prices, easy access to major employers, and plenty of nearby amenities.
Price Analysis
Here’s how rental prices in Parmer South compare to other options in the area:
| Unit Type | Parmer South Average | Mandalay | 1900 Parmer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,004 – $1,510 | N/A | From $1,015 |
| 1-Bedroom | $540 – $2,332 | $1,150 – $1,785 | Custom pricing |
| 2-Bedroom | $805 – $3,920 | $1,525 – $2,080 | Custom pricing |
| 3-Bedroom | $862 – $2,775 | $1,875 – $2,260 | N/A |
Mandalay’s pricing tends to fall in the mid-range, making it especially attractive for larger units. Meanwhile, Parmer Place offers a wide range of pricing, from $1,178 to $3,919 per month, catering to various budgets.
Location Advantages
Living in Parmer South comes with several location perks:
- Quick Downtown Access: Just 10 miles away via I-35, a short 15-minute drive.
- Proximity to Tech Employers: Close to major employers like Apple, 3M, and Oracle.
- Healthcare Nearby: North Austin Medical Center is only a 10-minute drive.
- Outdoor Recreation: Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is just one mile away.
These features make Parmer South a strong contender for those considering Mandalay.
Modern Living Experience
1900 Parmer offers a range of upscale amenities designed for a modern lifestyle, including:
- Two resort-style pools with cabanas
- A two-story fitness center
- A social lounge complete with a demonstration kitchen
- A dog park
These amenities cater to a more luxurious lifestyle, contrasting with Mandalay’s more straightforward offerings.
Resident Satisfaction
Parmer Place has earned a 4.2/5 rating from residents. Reviews highlight the community’s responsive maintenance, professional management, modern amenities, and convenient access to retail and dining options. Nearby, The Shops at Tech Ridge provide a variety of shopping opportunities, featuring stores like Walmart, H-E-B, and Home Depot for everyday essentials.
What Works and What Doesn’t
Mandalay stands out for its competitive rental rates and upgraded amenities, bolstered by recent management efforts. These include modern touches like stainless steel appliances and a more responsive maintenance team, enhancing the overall living experience.
Key Advantages
Mandalay offers a range of appealing features, including:
- A luxury saltwater pool designed with a resort-style vibe
- A 24/7 fitness center equipped with a yoga and pilates room
- A pickleball court for residents to enjoy
- A dedicated dog park for pet owners
- Bilingual staff fluent in English and Spanish
- A gated community with access to emergency security contacts
Notable Challenges
While Mandalay has its strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
- A low Walk Score of 18/100, making it highly car-dependent
- A Transit Score of 32/100, reflecting limited public transportation options
- Reported issues with gate security and general maintenance
- Concerns about pest control
- Inconsistent response times from management
- Limited parking availability, which can be inconvenient
Comparative Analysis
Here’s how Mandalay stacks up against local competitors, highlighting its affordability and unique positioning:
| Feature | Mandalay | Area Average | Notable Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Starting Price | $1,150 | $1,433 | $283 lower |
| 2-Bedroom Starting Price | $1,525 | $1,854 | $329 lower |
| 3-Bedroom Starting Price | $1,875 | $2,426 | $551 lower |
| Average Unit Size | 714 sq ft | 719 sq ft | Similar |
| Resident Rating | 4.0/5.0 | 3.8/5.0 | Slightly higher |
These figures emphasize Mandalay’s competitive pricing and strong resident satisfaction, even when accounting for its location-related challenges.
Value Proposition
Mandalay’s biggest draw is its excellent balance of cost and amenities. While the location may necessitate car ownership, the property compensates with affordable rental rates, flexible lease options (including short-term leases), and a wide array of amenities that cater to diverse needs.
Additional Considerations
Potential residents should also account for extra monthly costs, such as:
- Covered parking: $45
- Attached garages: $140–$200
- Storage units: $50
- Pet rent: $15 per pet
- One-time pet fees: $300 (for one pet) or $450 (for two pets)
These added expenses are worth considering when evaluating the overall affordability of living at Mandalay.
Is Mandalay Right For You?
Mandalay strikes a great balance between affordability and modern conveniences, making it a solid choice for a variety of lifestyles. Whether you’re a tech professional, a growing family, or a pet lover, this community has features tailored to your needs.
Perfect for Tech Professionals
Located just 10 miles from downtown Austin, Mandalay offers an easy commute via I-35. It’s a relaxed residential option with close access to Austin’s major employment hubs.
Family-Friendly Perks
Families will find plenty to love here, including:
- Proximity to well-regarded schools like Copperfield Elementary and John B Connally High School
- Spacious 3-bedroom units offering up to 1,250 square feet of living space
- An on-site playground designed for kids
- Access to five parks within a 6.2-mile radius, including the popular Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
A Haven for Pet Owners
Mandalay is a pet-friendly community, featuring a dedicated dog park and policies designed to welcome your furry friends. Plus, the nearby outdoor recreation areas make it easy to keep pets active and happy.
Who Will Love Mandalay?
Mandalay is a great fit for anyone who:
- Relies on driving as their main mode of transportation
- Wants resort-inspired amenities without breaking the bank
- Prefers a quieter suburban vibe with easy access to city life
- Needs proximity to major job centers
- Values having shopping and essentials close by
In short, Mandalay’s mix of affordable pricing, modern features, and convenient location makes it especially appealing to young professionals, small families, and pet owners. That said, if you’re looking for a highly walkable neighborhood or depend heavily on public transportation, you might want to consider other options.
FAQs
What makes Mandalay Apartments a top choice in Northeast Austin?
Mandalay Apartments: Affordable Living with Modern Comforts
Mandalay Apartments in Northeast Austin offer an appealing blend of convenience, affordability, and modern amenities. Residents have access to perks like a 24-hour fitness center, a yoga and pilates studio, and even a dog park – perfect for staying active and relaxed without leaving home.
With one-bedroom units starting at just $1,150, Mandalay provides budget-friendly options while maintaining quality. Its location is another major highlight, sitting close to key roads, parks, grocery stores, and other everyday essentials. If you’re searching for a place that balances cost, comfort, and accessibility, Mandalay Apartments might just tick all the right boxes.
What pet policies and costs should I know about at Mandalay Apartments?
Mandalay Apartments welcomes pets, allowing residents to have up to two pets per unit, with a maximum weight of 75 lbs per pet. There’s a one-time pet fee of $300 for a single pet or $450 for two pets, plus a monthly pet rent of $15 per pet. Keep in mind, some breeds may be restricted. These guidelines aim to create a pet-friendly atmosphere while maintaining a pleasant living experience for everyone.
What transportation options are available for Mandalay residents, considering its car-dependent location?
Mandalay sits in an area where having a car is almost a necessity. With both a walk score and transit score of 32, getting around on foot or relying on public transportation can be challenging. While there are some nearby bus stops and a key transfer station at Tech Ridge, most residents will find that owning a car is essential for commuting and running daily errands.
