When you are moving to a new city, or even just switching apartments within Austin, choosing the right rental makes all the difference. Downtown Austin has plenty of options, but they vary widely in quality, cost, and what you actually get for your rent. Here is a practical guide to what matters most when comparing rental apartments downtown.
Start with Location and Walkability
The biggest advantage of renting downtown is being able to live without a car. But walkability varies block by block. Check the Walk Score of any address you are considering, and map your actual daily routes: work, groceries, gym, coffee. Capitol Living, at 1108 Nueces St in the Capitol District, scores a 96 Walk Score with a grocery store, pharmacies, and dozens of restaurants within a few blocks.
Also consider which part of downtown fits your lifestyle. The Capitol District, north of 6th Street, is quieter and more residential than the entertainment corridors further south, while still being a five-minute walk from the action.
Look Closely at What Rent Includes
Two apartments with the same listed rent can cost very different amounts per month once utilities are added. At Capitol Living, rent includes internet, WiFi, gas, water, and wastewater. You are only responsible for electricity. This bundled approach means fewer bills, fewer accounts to set up, and a predictable monthly cost. For people coming from out of state, not having to research and sign up for multiple utility providers on day one is a real relief.
Judge the Building, Not Just the Unit
Capitol Living was designed with modern materials and thoughtful details throughout. The building spans five stories, with units averaging approximately 1,000 square feet each. This is not a converted office building or a dated complex with a fresh coat of paint. It is a quality multifamily residential property with real amenities: a rooftop terrace with downtown skyline views, a fully equipped fitness center, a designer lobby, and secure gated entry.
When touring any building, pay attention to the details that are hard to fake: how the common areas are maintained, whether the elevator and laundry facilities work, and how the building handles security and packages.
What Quality Finishes Look Like
Inside the unit, materials and construction quality determine how the apartment feels to live in day to day. At Capitol Living, each unit includes:
- Kitchen: Quartz countertops, stainless steel refrigerator, electric range with vent hood and microwave combo, dishwasher, black matte fixtures, contemporary pendant lighting, and bar seating at the island.
- Bathrooms: Glass-enclosed showers, LED-lit vanity mirrors, black matte hardware, floating vanities with storage, and designer floating shelves.
- Living areas: Sealed polished concrete flooring, solid core wood doors, smooth painted walls and ceilings. The sunroom includes a pull-out couch for guests.
- Layout: Four private bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a versatile sunroom that works as a home office or reading nook.
Understand the Lease Terms
Before signing anything, get clear on the fee structure and lease length. At Capitol Living, the application fee is $50 with a $50 admin fee, and leases start at a 3-month minimum with whole-unit agreements. Pets are welcome with a $150 refundable deposit and a $150 fee.
See It in Person
Photos only tell part of the story. Browse the gallery to see how the units and common spaces look, or schedule a tour to visit in person. When you are ready to make the move, applying takes just a few minutes.