If you’re moving here, you can aim high and negotiate confidently for the best Apartments in Austin. When searching for the Best Apartments in Austin, be sure to consider your needs and budget. Explore various options for the Best Apartments in Austin to find the right fit for you. Whether you seek luxury or a cozy home, the Best Apartments in Austin are waiting.

Why Now Favors Renters

New supply is peaking as Austin delivered approximately 31,000 apartments in the year ending Q1 2025, setting an all-time high. This surge has lifted occupancy rates to around 93–94%, while enabling operators to remain competitive on pricing and amenities. Rents have reset from their peak, with reports indicating that Austin’s advertised asking rents have decreased by about 5% year-over-year as of mid-2025.

Stabilized occupancy rates are now in the low-92s, while the metro median rent stands at approximately $1,381, reflecting a reduction of around 6% year-over-year. Finding the Best Apartments in Austin can be simplified by exploring different neighborhoods and comparing amenities. To better understand your choices, consider that the Best Apartments in Austin offer various amenities, ensuring you find a place that suits your lifestyle.

Concessions have returned to the market. Nationally, mid-2025 concessions average about one month free, equating to roughly 9% of the lease value. In Austin, lease-up promotions are openly advertising between 4 to 8 weeks free, and in some cases, even more, to attract residents to new towers.Bottom line: you have leverage—especially in brand-new, still-leasing high-rises.

With so many choices available, finding the Best Apartments in Austin can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. Make sure to keep your focus on the Best Apartments in Austin that fit your needs best. With so many Top Austin Apartments to choose from, it’s important to prioritize what matters most to you. These are the headline luxury towers newcomers are asking about—status, timing, and what to expect.

 ATX Tower – The Residences (321 W 6th) — Opening Fall 2025

Austin’s next super-tall landmark, ATX Tower – The Residences, is set to redefine downtown living. Rising above West 6th Street, the tower blends luxury rentals on its upper floors with a full amenity package designed for city-center lifestyles. Pre-leasing is already underway, with many units offering up to 8 weeks free rent as lease-up incentives. Residents can expect ATX Tower’s luxury rentals stand out among the Best Apartments in Austin, presenting a new standard for downtown living.

ATX Tower provides a stunning sky lounge with panoramic views of downtown and Lady Bird Lake, along with resort-style amenities that include fitness facilities, a pool, and wellness spaces. It offers direct access to the Central Business District, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. For newcomers seeking a premier address in the heart of the city, ATX Tower features cutting-edge design and competitive entry pricing during its launch period.

415 Colorado (Downtown) — Now Leasing (2025)

415 Colorado is one of downtown Austin’s newest luxury residential towers, offering a full range of floor plans—from efficient studios to expansive penthouses with skyline and Lady Bird Lake views. Designed with modern urban lifestyles in mind, the building delivers both sophistication and convenience in the heart of the Central Business District.

For newcomers considering a move, 415 Colorado offers exceptional lease-up incentives, including up to 8 weeks of free rent and waived fees for new residents. Its prime location places it just steps from the Central Business District, 6th Street entertainment, and a short walk to Lady Bird Lake and the hike-and-bike trail.

The property boasts luxury amenities such as a rooftop pool deck, resident lounge, coworking spaces, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Additionally, flexible layouts are available, ranging from open-concept studios ideal for professionals to high-floor penthouses designed for executives or downsizers seeking a lock-and-leave lifestyle. For those relocating and looking for an immediate downtown option, 415 Colorado combines the best aspects of location, lifestyle, and lease-up value, making it a standout choice among Austin’s new high-rises.

Consider the value of leasing in new developments for the best Top Austin Apartments, as these often offer great incentives. If you’re exploring options for Top Apartments in Austin, consider visiting various neighborhoods to see what aligns with your lifestyle.

700 River (On the Lake) — Delivered Late 2024 / Final Completion March 2025

700 River is one of Austin’s most anticipated lakefront residential towers, bringing a new level of high-rise luxury directly to the shoreline of Lady Bird Lake. Standing over 40 stories tall, the building offers panoramic water and skyline views that set it apart from most other downtown options.

Newcomers can enjoy immediate availability, with initial units delivered in late 2024 and full completion expected by March 2025, allowing for move-ins now—making this a premier option for those relocating in 2025. The location is unmatched, offering direct access to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, and is just minutes away from Rainey Street’s nightlife, restaurants, and downtown employers. Wellness-focused amenities include an on-site spa and wellness center, yoga and meditation rooms, a resort-style pool overlooking the lake, and fitness facilities equipped with the latest tech.

Additionally, lifestyle perks such as expansive coworking spaces, sky lounges, pet-friendly amenities, and concierge services are designed to support both professionals and families. For newcomers seeking a brand-new, lakefront lifestyle, 700 River delivers a rare mix of natural beauty and downtown convenience. Lease-up incentives are still being offered as the final phases open—making now the right time to secure a spot in this landmark tower. For those interested in the Best Apartments in Austin, the amenities provided at 700 River are truly exceptional, enhancing your living experience.

Waterline (98 Red River @ Waller Creek) — Phased Openings, Full Completion Late 2026

Waterline is one of the most anticipated Top Austin Apartments, but it also stands among the Best Apartments in Austin, offering unmatched luxury and style. Set to become an icon of Austin’s skyline, Waterline is officially the tallest tower in Texas, topping out in August 2025. Rising 74 stories at the edge of Waller Creek and Lady Bird Lake, it’s more than just a residential building—it’s a mixed-use landmark that blends luxury living, hospitality, and modern workspace.

Newcomers can expect 352 luxury residences featuring high-rise apartments with floor-to-ceiling glass, designer finishes, and panoramic views of the downtown skyline, Lady Bird Lake, and the Hill Country. The tower also integrates a 1 Hotel, offering five-star hospitality, including world-class dining, spa services, and concierge support for residents. Lifestyle amenities include a resort-style pool deck, a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, collaborative coworking lounges, and direct access to the Waller Creek greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake trail system. The live-work-play design encompasses office space and retail, creating a vertical neighborhood within itself.

In terms of timing and pricing, Waterline is set to open in phases beginning in 2026, with full completion targeted for late 2026. For relocators, this implies that the most exclusive units will likely be leased at premium pricing compared to today’s market. However, early leasing phases may feature introductory concessions, presenting a strategic opportunity for those seeking flagship living before demand drives prices higher.

For newcomers aiming for the very top of Austin’s luxury rental scene, Waterline represents the pinnacle of high-rise living—a rare chance to live in a global landmark property in the heart of downtown.

What This Means for Your Budget

When considering your budget, it’s essential to ask about various concessions available, such as free weeks, look-and-lease credits, and fee waivers for applications, administration, and parking. Timing can significantly impact these offers; the off-season, particularly late fall and winter, tends to have more substantial concessions. Additionally, expect premiums for particular views and levels, as higher floors and units with lake or Capitol views typically come at a higher cost. It’s also crucial to be aware of your financial standing, as most towers require an income of approximately three times the monthly rent and a good credit score.

Remember to inquire about available concessions when considering the Top Austin Apartments for your new home. When narrowing down your options, don’t forget to consider the Best Apartments in Austin, which provide both quality and comfort. Researching the best Top Apartments in Austin can help streamline your search and enhance your chances of finding your ideal home.

Where to Look (Quick Neighborhood Cheat Sheet)

Researching the best areas for Top Austin Apartments can provide a clearer picture for your move.

The CBD and 6th & Guadalupe corridor offers a walkable environment with easy access to offices, dining, and Whole Foods HQ. This area features the newest trophy towers, boasting the highest rents and the best amenities. Just steps away, the Rainey Street District provides proximity to the lake, trail, and vibrant nightlife, with several luxury high-rises set to deliver by 2026. Additionally, the South Lamar and other Vertical Mixed-Use (VMU) corridors present mid-rise luxury options at more affordable price points.

As we look ahead to 2026, several key market signals are emerging that warrant careful attention:

• • Supply Constraints Leading to Price Stability: A notable trend is the reduction in new developments, as developers have been increasingly cautious with project starts. This slowdown is expected to result in firmer pricing, particularly in the rental market. Analysts forecast that rent growth will stabilize and potentially increase as we approach late 2025 and into 2026, driven by these supply constraints.
  • Upcoming Tower Openings and Lease Strategies: Particularly significant is the anticipated opening of major developments, such as the Waterline project in 2026. This will introduce a fresh inventory into the market, prompting another wave of leasing incentives. Expect landlords to roll out competitive lease-up offers to attract tenants as these new towers become available, which could influence rental dynamics and overall market strategies.

The upcoming openings of new Top Austin Apartments will likely impact rental dynamics significantly. With the influx of new developments, it’s wise to keep an eye on the market trends for Top Apartments in Austin to make the most informed decision. Staying vigilant to these shifts can provide valuable insights into pricing trends and leasing opportunities in the coming years.

Newcomer Playbook: How to Win the Deal in a Luxury High-Rise

To successfully close a deal in a luxury high-rise, start by targeting active lease-ups such as ATX Tower and 415 Colorado. Next, it’s important to price the effective rent across different buildings to ensure competitiveness. Don’t forget to ask for unit-specific promotions, as these can make a significant difference in your offer. Additionally, negotiating fees can help you secure better terms. Consider offering lease terms of 15 to 18 months to appeal to landlords. Aim to tour properties midweek and at the end of the month for the best insights and availability. Lastly, ensure that everything discussed is documented in writing to avoid any misunderstandings.

Shortlist: High-Rise Luxury Options to Start Your Search

• ATX Tower – The Residences (CBD) – Pre-leasing, Fall ’25; up to 8 weeks free.
• 415 Colorado (CBD) – Now leasing; select units with up to 8 weeks free.
• 700 River (Waterfront) – Delivered Mar ’25; lake and skyline views.
• Waterline (Rainey/Waller Creek) – 352 luxury units opening by late ’26.

Making a move to Austin? Request a FREE COPY of the Austin Relocation Guide!

For comprehensive information, don’t forget to check out resources dedicated to Top Austin Apartments. Making a checklist of amenities can be beneficial when comparing the Top Apartments in Austin. For the best experience, prioritize your preferences while browsing different listings for Top Apartments in Austin. Utilizing your checklist, aim to prioritize the features offered by the Best Apartments in Austin, ensuring a match with your lifestyle.