The Ultimate Guide to Living and Renting in the Domain Austin

 

Looking to live in Austin’s “second downtown”? Here’s what you need to know about The Domain:

• What it is: A 304-acre mixed-use development with shops, offices, and apartments
• Rent prices: Average $1,530 for studios, $1,853 for 1-bedrooms, $2,612 for 2-bedrooms
• Who lives there: Mostly young professionals aged 25-35
• Getting around: CapMetro buses and rail, plus very walkable and bikeable
• Things to do: 100+ shops and restaurants, parks, fitness classes, community events

The Domain offers city living with a suburban touch. It’s pricier than some areas but cheaper than downtown Austin. Residents love the convenience and amenities, but traffic can be a pain during peak hours.

Quick comparison to downtown Austin:

Feature	The Domain	Downtown Austin
Avg. Rent	$1,761/month	$2,699/month
Utilities	$127/month	$146/month
Vibe	Urban-suburban mix	Full urban
Crowd	Young professionals	More diverse

Is The Domain right for you? If you want a lively community with everything at your fingertips, it might be your perfect Austin spot.

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What is The Domain?

The Domain is Austin’s “second downtown” – a massive 304-acre mixed-use development in North Austin. It’s where city life happens without leaving the neighborhood.

Once an IBM campus, The Domain now packs:

• 1.8 million sq ft of retail
• 3.5 million sq ft of office space
• 2,700 apartments
• 775 hotel rooms

It’s not just a mall. The Domain is a mini-city with over 100 shops and restaurants, tech giants like Amazon and Facebook, and a growing residential community. Young professionals and urbanites flock here for the all-in-one lifestyle.

How The Domain Started

The Domain’s story kicked off in 1999 when Endeavor Real Estate Group bought the old IBM campus. Their plan? Way bigger than just offices.

1. The Big Idea

They dreamed up a “new urbanist” community. Think living, working, and playing all in one spot. It was a big shift from typical suburban sprawl.

2. Building in Stages

Domain I opened in March 2007. It brought 700,000 sq ft of shops, restaurants, offices, and apartments to Austin. High-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Macy’s set the tone.

3. Growing Like Crazy

The Domain kept expanding:

• 2016: Domain Crossing (Phase II) added another 350,000 sq ft of retail and homes.
• 2020: The whole project hit 1.8 million sq ft of retail and 3.5 million sq ft of office space.

Stephen Kreher from the Austin Chamber of Commerce put it this way:

“The Domain has been transformative for the Austin region and specifically the vibrancy of the northern metro area.”

This isn’t just about new buildings. The Domain has pumped nearly $12 million in sales and property tax revenue into the city since opening. It’s a serious economic boost for Austin.

Today, The Domain shows what smart urban planning can do. It’s not just a place – it’s Austin’s take on modern city living. National chains and local businesses mix here, creating a uniquely Austin vibe that keeps evolving.

Rent Prices and Market Info

The Domain’s rental scene is as diverse as Austin itself. Let’s break down what you need to know about renting in this bustling neighborhood.

How Much Does Rent Cost?

Brace yourself: The Domain isn’t cheap. Here’s the scoop on average monthly rents:

Apartment Type	Average Rent	Low End	High End
Studio	$1,530	$849	$5,265
1-Bedroom	$1,853	$899	$6,595
2-Bedroom	$2,612	$1,000	$9,395
3-Bedroom	$2,424	$1,434	$4,744

Spoiler alert: These prices are higher than Austin’s average of $1,703. But hey, you’re paying for that Domain lifestyle.

Types of Apartments

The Domain’s got something for (almost) everyone:

1. Luxury High-Rises: Think The Bowen, where you’ll shell out $1,825 to $11,786 for anything from a studio to a 3-bedroom palace.
2. Mid-Range Complexes: Places like Residences at the Domain won’t break the bank as badly. Expect to pay $1,394 to $2,866 for studios up to 2-bedrooms.
3. Budget-Friendly Options: “Budget” is relative here, but Villages at Domain starts at $1,141 for studios.
4. Corporate Apartments: For the work-hard-play-hard crowd, some spots offer furnished corporate rentals.

Best Times to Rent

Timing is everything, folks:

• Winter (January to mid-March): This is your sweet spot. Renters who sign leases in winter save about $30 a month. Not bad.
• Summer (May to September): More options, but you’ll pay for the privilege. It’s peak moving season, so prices jump.

Alexander Concepcion from Taco Street Locating drops this wisdom: “Winter for savings, summer for choices. Pick your poison.”

What to Know About Leases

Before you sign on the dotted line:

1. Lease Terms: Most places want you for a year, but some might offer 6 or 15-month deals.
2. Pet Policies: Fido’s welcome, but it’ll cost you. The Standard at Domain Northside, for example, charges a $300 pet fee plus $20 monthly pet rent.
3. Application Process: Get ready to fork over about $75 per person for applications and $250 for admin fees. They’ll check your income and background, too.
4. Deposits: These vary based on your credit score and rental history. Some places might let you skip the deposit if you’re a star tenant.
5. Amenities: Pools, gyms, concierge services – The Domain’s got the works. Factor these perks into your decision.

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What’s Nearby?

Living in The Domain puts you smack in the middle of Austin’s hottest shopping, dining, and fitness scene. Let’s take a quick tour of what’s right outside your door.

Shopping

The Domain is a shopaholic’s dream come true. With over 100 stores, you’ll find everything from high-end luxury to everyday essentials:

• Want to splurge? Hit up Louis Vuitton or Tiffany & Co.
• Need new threads? Zara, H&M, and Nordstrom have got you covered.
• Love local? Check out YETI for outdoor gear or Limbo Jewelry and Nina Berenato for unique, Austin-made bling.
• Tech geek? The Apple Store is your new hangout.

Places to Eat

Hungry? The Domain’s got flavors for every palate:

“Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille is the spot for a fancy night out. Their Friday lunch pork chop is legendary.” – 11801 Domain Blvd

Craving something healthier? Flower Child at 11721 Rock Rose Ave serves up fresh, seasonal dishes in a chill setting.

For a taste of Thailand, Thai Kun (11601 Rock Rose Ave) is your go-to. Don’t skip the Waterfall Pork.

Want a side of live music with your meal? Culinary Dropout (11721 Rock Rose) is a gastropub that’ll hit the spot. Try the BBQ pork belly nachos – thank me later.

And for those lazy weekend mornings? Bakery Lorraine‘s got your pastry fix covered, plus a sunny patio for people-watching.

Gyms and Workout Spots

Staying fit is a breeze with these nearby options:

CorePower Yoga (3210 Esperanza Crossing) offers hot yoga with a bootcamp twist. They’re open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily, with both in-studio and online classes.

Orangetheory Fitness (3100 Esperanza Crossing) promises to keep you burning calories for up to 38 hours after their high-energy group workouts.

Love HIIT? F45 Training Domain (3220 Amy Donovan Plaza) will push you to your limits with their circuit training.

For a more personal touch, Heavy Mettle Fitness offers private training near The Domain. No distractions, just you and your goals.

Living in The Domain means everything you need is just a stone’s throw away. Shop, eat, work out – it’s all here, waiting for you to dive in.

Getting Around

Living in The Domain puts you right in Austin’s tech hub. But how do you get around this urban hotspot and connect with the rest of the city? Let’s check out your options.

Bus and Train

CapMetro, Austin’s public transit, has got you covered:

1. CapMetro Bus: Regular routes all over Austin, including The Domain. The High-Frequency Network has 14 routes running every 15-30 minutes from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.
2. CapMetro Rapid: Fast service with fewer stops. Buses come every 15 minutes, all week. It links The Domain to Westgate and Tech Ridge, going through UT Campus and downtown.
3. CapMetro Rail: Commuter train connecting The Domain to downtown Austin.
4. CapMetro Express: Commuter buses for North Austin and beyond, great for longer trips.

Grab the CapMetro App to buy passes and plan trips. A Day Pass is $2.50 for unlimited rides for 24 hours – same price as two Single Ride Passes. Ride a lot? Get a seven-day pass for $11.25.

“The MetroRail doesn’t always stop at the hottest spots, but that’s where connector buses come in handy.” – Lonely Planet

On Foot and Two Wheels

The Domain is built for walking and biking, so you can easily ditch the car for short trips.

Walking: The Domain’s layout makes it easy to explore on foot. Wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets let you stroll from your place to shops, restaurants, and offices without a hitch.

Biking: Austin’s bike-friendly vibe is alive in The Domain:

1. The Domain BCycle: Rent bikes for quick trips around the area. Perfect for errands or lunch with friends.
2. Bike Routes: Austin has 215 miles of bike routes. Not all are in The Domain, but they connect you to the rest of Austin.
3. Rentals and Tours: Want to explore more? Try these:
   • Mellow Johnny’s: Rent road, mountain, or city bikes.
   • Barton Springs Bike Rentals: Get beach cruisers and tandems near Zilker Park.
   • Austin Bike Tours and Rentals: Rentals and guided tours of Downtown and East Austin.

“With all the outdoor fun in Austin, it’s no shock that the city has a big cycling scene.” – Peter Mallett, Contributor

Stay Safe: Check out the City’s Bicycle webpage for route maps and safety tips before you ride.

Whether you like buses, trains, walking, or biking, The Domain has plenty of ways to get around. Ditch the car and explore this lively community!

How to Find an Apartment

Looking for an apartment in The Domain? No sweat. Here’s how to make it happen without losing your mind.

Apartment Locating Help

Want to save time and headaches? Use a free apartment locating service. Taco Street Locating, started by Alexander Concepcion, is your go-to helper.

Here’s what Taco Street Locating does for you:

1. Personalized Consultation

Jump on a call. Tell them what you want. Budget, location, must-haves – spill it all.

2. Curated Apartment Lists

They’ll hand you a spreadsheet with apartments that fit your needs. No more sifting through 758 options on your own. (FYI: Prices in The Domain range from $1,141 to $11,786.)

3. Coordinated Tours

They set up tours – in person or video. You just show up.

4. Local Expertise

Need to know about the Kramer Street Metro rail or Capital Metro bus? They’ve got the inside scoop.

5. Application Assistance

Found your spot? They’ll help you get your paperwork in order.

“Your dream home is just a conversation away – let’s make it happen!” – Ross, Austin Apartment Locator

Best part? It’s free for you. The apartments pay them, not you.

What You Need to Apply

Ready to apply? Here’s your checklist:

1. ID and Social Security Number

Government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. They’ll run a background check.

2. Proof of Income

The Domain landlords want to see you make 40 times the monthly rent per year. Bring:

• Recent pay stubs
• Bank statements (last 4 months)
• Tax returns

Your household should make at least 2.5 times the rent.

3. Rental History

List your past landlords and their contact info. Written references are a plus.

4. Money for Fees and Deposits

Be ready to fork over:

Item	Cost
Application Fee	$60 per person
Security Deposit	Varies
Pet Deposit	$100
Monthly Pet Rent	$25

5. Proof of Insurance

You need renter’s insurance with at least $100,000 liability coverage.

6. Credit Report

They’ll check your credit. Low score? Be ready to explain and maybe pay a higher deposit.

Want to stand out? Offer a longer lease. Landlords love commitment.

Daily Life in The Domain

Living in The Domain isn’t just about having a roof over your head. It’s a whole experience. Let’s dive into what makes this place tick.

Meeting Your Neighbors

The Domain is all about community. It’s packed with young professionals, mostly 25-35 years old. But don’t worry, it’s not all work and no play.

“I absolutely love living at Overture Domain! It’s uptown, upscale, but down to earth in community values and family feel”, says Mary Naomi, a resident.

Want to make friends? Easy. There’s always something going on:

• Trivia nights at Punch Bowl Social (Mondays, 6 PM)
• Music Bingo at Punch Bowl Social (Thursdays, 7 PM)
• Happy hours and book clubs in various apartments

The staff? They’re not just there to fix your leaky faucet. They’re part of the community too.

“The staff is an extension of our families. They truly are the icing of all the wonderful things Overture Domain has to offer!” shares Susan, another resident.

Things to Do

Bored? Not here. With 137 stores spread over 1,234,352 square feet, you could shop ’til you drop. But that’s just the start.

Here’s what’s on the menu:

1. Oktoberfest Block Party

Mark October 5th, 2024 on your calendar. The Dogwood Domain throws this bash every year. Think German culture with a Texan twist. Dachtoberfest races, live music, and stein-related shenanigans? Yes, please.

2. Murder Mystery Dinners

Maggiano’s Little Italy occasionally hosts these. Perfect for when you want dinner with a side of intrigue.

3. Fitness Classes

Many apartments offer on-site classes. No excuses for skipping leg day.

4. Movie Nights

Some places organize regular screenings. Grab some popcorn and get comfy.

And the nightlife? It gives 6th Street a run for its money.

Parks and Outdoor Areas

The Domain isn’t all concrete and glass. There’s plenty of green to go around.

Domain Central Park: Got crushed granite and paved trails. Perfect for your morning jog or evening stroll. The trails are wide and step-free, so everyone can enjoy them.

Katherine Fleischer Park: This place is a jack of all trades. It’s got:

• A community center
• Gazebo
• Playground
• Pool
• Soccer field
• Sand volleyball court
• Tennis and basketball courts
• Multi-use baseball field

“The location is excellent for me AND my dog. Dog park nearby and safe walking day and night”, notes Steve, a Domain resident.

Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Traffic can be a pain, especially when there’s a big event or during peak shopping hours. And the layout? Let’s just say you might want to invest in some comfy shoes.

“I want to love the Domain. I really do. But it takes a lot of effort”, shares a TripAdvisor reviewer.

But hey, no place is perfect. Most folks here think the pros outweigh the cons. Whether you’re looking to mingle or just want everything at your fingertips, The Domain’s got you covered. It’s a slice of city life with a side of suburban comfort – and that’s hard to beat in Austin.

Wrap-Up

The Domain: Austin’s “second downtown” with a twist. Here’s the scoop:

It’s a one-stop shop for life, work, and play. Picture this: 137 stores spread across 1.2 million square feet. You’ll never run out of places to splurge or grab a bite.

Who lives here? Mostly 25 to 35-year-olds. It’s like a playground for young professionals.

Now, let’s talk money. It’s not dirt cheap, but it won’t break the bank either. Average rent? $1,761 per month. Compare that to downtown’s $2,699, and you’re saving some serious cash. Utilities are cheaper too – $127 vs $146 downtown.

But what about the vibe? Emily, who actually lives here, says:

“Moving here was the best decision! Very reasonably priced for the location. The staff was so welcoming and the neighbors are so nice. Don’t have a bad thing to say about our experience. It was great.”

Amenities? They’ve got you covered. Think fitness classes, movie nights, and quick maintenance. And don’t worry, nature lovers – The Domain Central Park and Katherine Fleischer Park are right there when you need a green fix.

Is it perfect? Nah. Traffic can be a pain during rush hour. But for most folks, the good stuff outweighs the bad.

So, if you’re after city living with a softer edge, The Domain might just be your sweet spot in Austin.