Looking for a great apartment in Southwest Austin? Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know about the Preserve at Travis Creek and how it compares to nearby options:
- Preserve at Travis Creek: Located in Oak Hill with 1-3 bedroom units ($1,552–$4,293). Features include a 1.5-acre dog park, hiking trails, and a 24-hour fitness studio. Rated 3.8/5 with a 96% management response rate.
- The Ridge at Barton Creek: Affordable, near Zilker Park, but lower-rated (2.9/5). Offers golf cart access to Barton Creek Country Club.
- Lantana Hills Apartments: Quiet community with 6 miles of private hiking trails. 1-3 bedroom units start at $1,254. Rated 4.3/5 but has parking issues.
- The Santal: Upscale living with luxury amenities, 1-3 bedroom units ($1,754–$4,761). High cost but offers premium features like Nest thermostats and scenic views.
Quick Comparison
| Property | Price Range | Key Features | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preserve at Travis Creek | $1,552–$4,293 | Pet-friendly, hiking trails, fitness studio | 3.8/5 |
| The Ridge at Barton Creek | Affordable | Near Zilker Park, golf cart access | 2.9/5 |
| Lantana Hills Apartments | $1,254–$2,389 | Quiet, hiking trails, modern interiors | 4.3/5 |
| The Santal | $1,754–$4,761 | Luxury amenities, Hill Country views | High-end |
Choose based on your budget, lifestyle, and desired amenities. Preserve at Travis Creek offers a balance of nature and modern living, while The Santal provides a premium experience. Lantana Hills is ideal for nature lovers, and The Ridge is great for budget-conscious renters near downtown Austin.
1. Preserve at Travis Creek
Location and Accessibility
Nestled at 5604 Southwest Parkway in Austin’s Oak Hill, Preserve at Travis Creek offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Its location provides direct access to Loop 1 and Highway 290, making trips to downtown Austin quick and hassle-free. The property is also situated near the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering residents a peaceful natural setting alongside excellent connectivity to the city.
Pricing and Floor Plans
Preserve at Travis Creek caters to a variety of needs with its selection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Studio units are not currently available. Here’s a breakdown of the floor plans, sizes, and pricing:
| Floor Plan | Bedrooms/Bathrooms | Square Footage | Rent Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 1/1 | 692 sq ft | $1,552 – $1,721 |
| A2 | 1/1 | 788 sq ft | $1,652 – $1,842 |
| A3 | 1/1 | 793 sq ft | $1,571 – $1,858 |
| A4 | 1/1 | 912 sq ft | $1,778 – $1,970 |
| B1 | 2/2 | 1,054 sq ft | $1,820 – $2,295 |
| B2 | 2/2 | 1,062 sq ft | $1,715 – $2,065 |
| B3 | 2/2 | 1,165 sq ft | $1,965 – $2,372 |
| C1 | 3/2 | 1,362 sq ft | $2,456 – $2,796 |
For additional services, covered parking is available for $40 per month, while garage parking ranges from $140 to $160 per month. A package service fee of $15 is also applicable. Pet owners should note a one-time fee of $250 and a monthly charge of $30.
Amenities and Features
Preserve at Travis Creek boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance both leisure and lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hike and bike trails, free mountain bike rentals, and the expansive 1.5-acre dog park. Other recreational options include a pickleball court, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a playground. For fitness lovers, the 24-hour fitness studio offers free weights, the Wellbeats fitness program, and free group exercise classes.
The community is equipped with controlled access gates, dual-port electric car charging stations, and 24-hour emergency maintenance. Social spaces include a resident lounge with a billiards table and a cyber cafe with WiFi, perfect for relaxation or remote work.
Apartment interiors offer a variety of features depending on the unit. Some units include renovated finishes, brushed nickel fixtures, vaulted ceilings (in third-floor units), oversized patios, and fireplaces. Select apartments also come with wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and in-unit washer/dryer setups, adding to the overall comfort and style of the living spaces.
2. The Ridge at Barton Creek
Location and Accessibility
Nestled at 1300 Spyglass Drive in Austin’s vibrant Zilker area, The Ridge at Barton Creek boasts a prime location just across Lady Bird Lake from downtown. This means residents enjoy not only easy access to the bustling city but also the natural beauty of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, complete with stunning views. The combination of urban convenience and serene surroundings makes this spot a standout.
Amenities and Features
Living at The Ridge at Barton Creek feels more like a getaway than a typical apartment experience. Residents have exclusive golf cart access to the Barton Creek Country Club and the Omni Resort. Plus, they can enjoy the perks of the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, which include three pools (one reserved for adults), a full-service spa, golf courses, tennis courts, a fitness center equipped with Peloton bikes, and on-site dining options. With these high-end amenities and a design that exudes sophistication, this community delivers a lifestyle that rivals luxury resorts.
3. Lantana Hills Apartments
Location and Accessibility
Lantana Hills Apartments is located at 7601 Rialto Blvd in Austin’s West Oak Hill neighborhood. This spot offers convenient access to Southwest Parkway, West William Cannon Drive, and Highway 290, making commutes to downtown Austin and other areas of the city relatively easy.
However, the area is primarily vehicle-dependent, with a public transportation score of 17 out of 100 and a walkability score of just 4 out of 100. This means residents will likely need a car for most errands. On the flip side, the location provides a quieter, more residential atmosphere, away from the busier parts of Austin.
Next, let’s look at the pricing and floor plan options available.
Pricing and Floor Plans
Lantana Hills offers a variety of floor plans to accommodate different budgets and lifestyle needs.
Studio apartments start at $1,254 and span 544 square feet, making them a great option for those seeking a compact, affordable space.
One-bedroom apartments come in three layouts:
- The A1 floor plan offers 714 square feet, starting at $1,449.
- The A2 layout provides 752 square feet, with rents beginning at $1,424.
- The A3 plan, for those needing more room, ranges from 812 to 839 square feet and starts at $1,494.
Two-bedroom units are ideal for roommates or those needing extra space for a home office:
- The B1 spans 1,120 square feet, starting at $1,994.
- The B2 offers 1,182 square feet, with rents beginning at $2,009.
- The B3 is the largest two-bedroom option at 1,299 square feet, starting at $2,389.
Three-bedroom apartments are perfect for families or larger groups, featuring 1,478 square feet of space with rents starting at $2,265.
Amenities and Features
Lantana Hills brings more than just living spaces – it offers a lifestyle. The complex is surrounded by 23 acres of landscaped greenery, providing a peaceful environment. A free-form resort-style swimming pool is the centerpiece, offering a refreshing escape during Austin’s hot summers.
Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the well-equipped gym, while pet owners will appreciate the on-site dog park. The multi-level clubhouse serves as a community hub, complete with Wi-Fi, a resident party room, and an executive business center with a conference room – perfect for remote work or meetings.
Inside each apartment, modern touches abound. Kitchens feature granite countertops and GE stainless steel appliances, complemented by cherry wood custom cabinets. Nine-foot ceilings give the units an open and airy feel, while practical additions like full-size washers and dryers, spacious walk-in closets, and soaking tubs enhance everyday convenience.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, the property offers greenbelt views and access to hiking trails, making it easy to stay active and connected with nature. Families will also appreciate being within the Austin ISD, a valuable perk for those with school-age children.
4. The Santal
Location and Accessibility
Nestled at the base of Hill Country in East Oak Hill, The Santal is just seven miles from downtown Austin. Its location offers easy access to outdoor gems like the Zilker Nature Preserve and Barton Creek Greenbelt. For students, Austin Community College‘s Pinnacle Campus is only a 7-minute drive, with USAHS and Austin C.C. South Austin also nearby. Downtown Station is roughly 17 minutes away (10 miles), and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport can be reached in about 30 minutes.
Shopping options are plentiful, with three centers – such as Oak Hill Center and West Woods Shopping Center – located within a 4.2-mile radius. Despite the area’s natural charm, with tree-lined streets lending a rural Texas vibe, the Walk Score of 5 suggests that having a car is essential. This blend of convenience and countryside appeal is reflected in the diverse pricing and layout options available.
Pricing and Floor Plans
The Santal offers upscale apartments designed to complement the Hill Country surroundings. One-bedroom units, ranging from $1,754 to $3,286, provide 806 to 907 square feet of living space. Two-bedroom apartments are available for $2,031 to $4,333, with layouts spanning 1,080, 1,181, or 1,205 square feet. For those needing more room, three-bedroom options range from $2,554 to $4,761 and feature 1,462 square feet.
Pet owners should note a one-time fee of $400 and a $20 monthly pet rent. Up to two pets are allowed per apartment, though certain breeds like Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers are restricted.
Amenities and Features
The Santal elevates everyday living with a range of resort-style amenities. Residents can relax at two pools with lounging edges and cabanas or stay active at two fitness centers equipped with virtual trainers, free weights, and cardio machines. Practical perks include electric vehicle charging stations, bike racks, and garage options, while pet-friendly features include an off-leash dog park, greenspace with a pet water fountain, and a pet washing station complete with a blow dryer and grooming area.
Inside the apartments, kitchens are outfitted with Whirlpool EnergyStar stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Select units boast 17-foot vaulted ceilings and polished concrete or hand-scraped hickory hardwood floors. Every unit comes with a front-load washer and dryer, Nest thermostats, and recessed LED lighting. Premium apartments offer private balconies with scenic views of downtown Austin and the Hill Country, along with fenced yards for added privacy.
The community is ENERGY STAR® Certified and offers two resident lounges with WiFi and media areas. Plus, 24/7 emergency maintenance ensures peace of mind for all residents.
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Pros and Cons Comparison
Deciding among these four Southwest Austin apartment complexes requires balancing their distinct advantages and potential downsides, each catering to different lifestyles. Here’s a breakdown to help you compare them side by side.
Preserve at Travis Creek scores high with residents, boasting a 4.4/5 rating from 988 reviews. People love its safe environment, scenic natural surroundings, and attentive staff. On the flip side, some residents have pointed out slower maintenance responses and concerns about remodeling quality. There’s also a mandatory $23/month fee for services like trash, pest control, and package handling.
The Ridge at Barton Creek is a budget-friendly option located in the desirable Zilker area, close to Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs. While its location is a major plus, the property has a lower 2.9/5 rating on Apartments.com, with complaints about slow repairs and cleanliness issues.
Lantana Hills Apartments offers excellent value with competitive pricing and perks like 6 miles of private hiking trails. Residents enjoy the quiet community and helpful staff, reflected in its 4.3/5 rating from 127 reviews. However, recurring issues with gating and parking have been noted.
The Santal caters to those seeking a premium lifestyle, offering exclusive amenities and a secluded Hill Country vibe. But this upscale experience comes with a much higher price tag.
Here’s a quick comparison of the key pros and cons:
| Complex | Key Pros | Main Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Preserve at Travis Creek | High resident satisfaction (4.4/5); pet-friendly | Maintenance delays, $23/month fees, remodeling issues |
| The Ridge at Barton Creek | Affordable; prime location near parks | Low ratings (2.9/5); repair and cleanliness concerns |
| Lantana Hills Apartments | Great value; 6 miles of hiking trails; quiet vibe | Gating and parking challenges |
| The Santal | Luxury amenities; secluded Hill Country setting | High cost |
Each complex serves a different lifestyle. The Ridge at Barton Creek appeals to budget-conscious renters who want easy access to parks, despite its lower ratings. Preserve at Travis Creek offers a mix of convenience and resident satisfaction, though maintenance delays could be a drawback. Lantana Hills suits those who appreciate a peaceful, nature-focused community, while The Santal is tailored for renters prioritizing exclusivity and luxury.
Conclusion
Preserve at Travis Creek stands out among Southwest Austin’s apartment options, offering a perfect mix of modern living and serene natural surroundings. With consistently high resident ratings, this community has built a strong reputation for keeping its residents satisfied.
What truly makes Preserve at Travis Creek shine is its combination of modern luxury and exclusive amenities. Residents benefit from upscale features that are hard to find, available in just 8% of Austin’s apartment buildings. Its location in East Oak Hill provides the best of both worlds – easy access to urban conveniences and outdoor adventures along the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
The numbers back up the community’s dedication to quality. With 96% of reviews receiving responses from management and high scores in categories like Neighborhood (4.5/5) and Grounds (4.3/5), Preserve at Travis Creek clearly prioritizes resident satisfaction. A verified resident’s glowing 5-star review in April 2025, after 18 months of living there, further highlights the community’s commitment to creating an exceptional living experience.
FAQs
How does Preserve at Travis Creek compare to other nearby apartments in terms of amenities and pricing?
The Preserve at Travis Creek: A Blend of Comfort and Nature
The Preserve at Travis Creek combines modern living with a nature-inspired setting, offering a range of standout amenities. Residents can enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, a pickleball court, a spacious dog park, a community garden, and scenic hiking trails. Inside the apartments, you’ll find gourmet kitchens outfitted with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Pricing starts at around $1,552/month for one-bedroom units, $1,684–$2,037/month for two-bedroom units, and $2,422/month for three-bedroom units.
For those exploring nearby options, Ocotillo provides more budget-friendly choices, with one-bedroom units starting at $1,106/month. However, it may not include some of the premium features offered at the Preserve. Another alternative, Lantana Hills, starts at $1,239/month for studios and boasts private hiking trails and resort-style amenities. While the Preserve at Travis Creek comes with a higher price tag, its combination of luxury features and easy access to the outdoors makes it an excellent choice for those who value both comfort and a connection to nature.
How does living at Preserve at Travis Creek combine convenience and a connection to nature?
The Preserve at Travis Creek: Convenience Meets Nature
The Preserve at Travis Creek strikes a perfect balance between easy accessibility and serene natural surroundings. Situated in the Oak Hill neighborhood of Southwest Austin, this community offers seamless access to major routes like Loop 1 and Highway 290, making trips to downtown Austin and nearby areas quick and hassle-free.
What sets this community apart is its location within a sprawling 64-acre natural preserve. Residents are treated to stunning views and tranquil green spaces right at their doorstep. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby parks and the Barton Creek Greenbelt provide endless opportunities for activities like hiking and biking. It’s a rare blend of urban convenience and peaceful retreat, ideal for anyone seeking both vibrancy and calm in their daily life.
What challenges do residents face at Preserve at Travis Creek, and how does management handle them?
Residents at Preserve at Travis Creek have voiced concerns about safety and maintenance. Issues like vehicle thefts, break-ins, mold problems, and air conditioning failures – especially during the sweltering Texas summers – have been highlighted. Some have also pointed out delays in how quickly management addresses these problems.
On the flip side, many residents have praised the management team for their fast response to maintenance requests, often resolving issues within a day. The team has also been commended for creating a welcoming sense of community that helps balance some of the challenges. While no apartment complex is without flaws, Preserve at Travis Creek appears dedicated to listening to residents and working to enhance their living experience.
