South Congress Square Apartments — Honest Review For Rent

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Rent at South Congress Square

Not every apartment works for every renter. Here’s who this property actually serves well—and who should keep looking.

Best For:

• Remote workers who actually use amenities. You’ve got a pool, a dog trail, and a Walk Score of 83. Work from home? Want to grab lunch on South Congress or walk to Lady Bird Lake without getting in a car? This location delivers.
• Value-seekers who do the math. Utilities are included—gas, electric, and trash. At comparable SoCo properties, you’d pay $135-205/month extra for those. Combined with the lower base rent (1BRs starting at $1,171), you’re looking at real savings. Not marketing spin. Real money.
• Large dog owners. South Congress Square has no weight limit on pets. That’s genuinely rare in Austin—most properties cap at 50-75 pounds. German Shepherd? Great Dane? Any breed over 75 lbs? Your options just expanded. See our full list of Austin apartments that allow large dogs.
• Budget-conscious renters who want actual SoCo walkability. The Muse at SoCo starts at $2,010 for a one-bedroom. South Congress Square starts at $1,171. Same neighborhood. That’s over $800/month in your pocket.

Skip If:

• In-unit laundry is non-negotiable. The listing shows “washer/dryer connection,” which sounds like you get machines. You don’t. There are hookups if you want to bring your own, but most residents use shared laundry rooms. Dealbreaker? It’s a def a dealbreaker for most.
• You need guaranteed covered parking. Surface lot is standard. Covered spots are limited. First-come-first-served. Two vehicles could be tight.
• You have excellent credit and want new construction finishes. At 720+ credit, you’re settling here if you prioritize granite counters, smart home features, and that “new building” feel. Properties like 422 at The Lake (2016 build) or The Catherine (2015) are nearby options worth comparing.
• You’re sensitive to older building characteristics. This is a 1971 build. It has character—stained concrete floors, fireplaces—but also the realities of a 54-year-old structure. Some noise transfer between units. Older plumbing. The general patina of age.

If you’re dealing with credit challenges, the older building age can actually work in your favor—screening tends to be less rigid than at newer luxury properties. More on that in the screening section below.

What You’ll Actually Pay: Rent, Fees & Net Effective Breakdown

Let’s get specific. The listing says “$1,171 – $1,538.” Here’s what you’ll actually pay after specials, fees, and the utilities you’re not paying elsewhere.

Floor Plan Pricing

*Net effective rent with current one-month-free special on 12-month lease. Pricing verified January 2026.

Current Available Units:

Net Effective Rent: The Math That Actually Matters

“Net effective rent” is what you pay per month when you spread a move-in special across your lease term. Listing sites show you the base rent. I show you the real number.

The formula:

(Base Rent × 11 months) ÷ 12 months = Net Effective Rent

Example for a 1BR at $1,171 (lowest available):

($1,171 × 11) ÷ 12 = $1,074/month

Example for a 1BR at $1,296 (highest available):

($1,296 × 11) ÷ 12 = $1,188/month

That’s $97-$108/month less than the advertised price. But only for your first year. When renewal comes around, expect to pay closer to the full rate. Budget accordingly.

Use our net effective rent calculator to run the numbers for any property you’re comparing.

True Monthly Cost

Base rent isn’t the whole picture. Here’s what a realistic month looks like:

Notice what’s missing? Electric. Gas. Trash. Those are included here.

The Utilities Advantage

This is where South Congress Square quietly beats most competitors. At a typical Austin apartment, you’re paying separately for:

• Electric: $80-150/month (higher in summer with AC running)
• Gas: $25-35/month
• Trash: $25-35/month

Total: $130-220/month you’re NOT paying here.

According to Austin Energy, a typical residential customer consumes 860 kWh per month. Combined with gas and trash, Austin renters typically pay $150-230/month in utilities.

Over a 12-month lease, that’s $1,560-$2,640 in utility savings. When you’re comparing rent prices, add that back to the competitors’ numbers. A “$1,400 apartment” that doesn’t include utilities? Actually a $1,550-$1,600 apartment.

Move-In Costs

The $50 application fee is non-refundable. If you’re not confident you’ll get approved, read the screening section before you apply—or reach out and I can tell you whether your profile fits before you spend that money.

For more on what fees to expect, see our guide to hidden renting costs in Austin.

Location Analysis: What Walk Score 83 Actually Means Here

Walk Score 83 puts South Congress Square in “Very Walkable” territory. But what does that mean in practice? Let me break it down.

The Scores

Source: Walk Score

An 83 is legitimately good for Austin. For context: most suburban apartments score 30-50. Downtown high-rises hit 90+. South Congress Square lands in that sweet spot—urban enough to walk to things, affordable enough to not destroy your budget.

Distance to Key Destinations

The Walkability Reality Check

Here’s what that 83 actually gets you:

Genuinely walkable: South Congress Avenue itself. You’re a few blocks from dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and the boutiques that make SoCo what it is. Jo’s Coffee. Home Slice Pizza. Güero’s Taco Bar. All within a 10-15 minute walk. Lady Bird Lake trail access is 8 minutes on foot.

Technically walkable but you probably won’t: Grocery stores. Trader Joe’s and H-E-B are both over a mile away. You can walk it. You won’t want to carry groceries back in August heat. Plan on driving or using delivery for major shopping runs.

You’ll need a car for: Anything north of the river with regularity. Airport trips. Big-box retail. CapMetro Route 1 runs along Congress and will get you downtown, but for most errands beyond the immediate SoCo bubble, you’re driving.

Transit Access

CapMetro Route 1 stops right on South Congress—one of the more useful bus routes in Austin. It runs from South Congress through downtown to North Lamar. Service every 10-15 minutes during peak hours.

If you work downtown and don’t mind the bus, you could legitimately go car-light here. Not car-free. Austin isn’t built for that. But lighter than most Austin locations.

The Commute Factor

South Congress Square works best if you work downtown, work remotely, or have a reverse commute heading south. Commuting to the Domain or North Austin daily? Factor in 35-45 minutes during rush hour. That adds up.

What’s Inside: Unit Features & Community Amenities

South Congress Square is a 1971 build. And that shows—in both good and not-so-good ways. Here’s what you’re actually getting.

Unit Features

The stained concrete floors are a love-it-or-hate-it feature. Durable. Easy to clean. Gives the units a loft-like feel that photographs well. But they’re also hard underfoot and cold in winter. Work from home standing at a desk? Get a good anti-fatigue mat.

The fireplaces and wet/dry bars in select units are holdovers from the original build—legitimately nice touches you won’t find in cookie-cutter new construction. Ask which floor plans have them if that matters to you.

Community Amenities

The fitness center gap: There isn’t one. If daily gym access is part of your routine, you’ll need a membership somewhere. LA Fitness on S Lamar is about 10 minutes away; Orange Theory on S Congress is closer.

The laundry clarification: I mentioned this in the “Skip If” section, but it’s worth repeating because the listing is confusing. “Washer/dryer connection” means there are hookups in units if you want to bring your own machines. It does not mean machines are provided. Most residents use the shared laundry rooms. If you’re coming from a place with in-unit laundry, this is an adjustment.

What the 1971 Build Actually Means

Older buildings get a bad reputation. But “1971 build” isn’t automatically a negative. Here’s the nuanced reality:

The upside: Larger floor plans than modern construction. (713 sq ft for a 1BR is generous.) Solid construction—these weren’t built to flip. Character features like fireplaces that newer buildings skip. And often, more flexible screening criteria than Class A luxury properties.

The downside: Some noise transfer between units. Older plumbing and electrical systems. No smart home features. Windows may not be as energy-efficient—though utilities included means that’s not your bill. The general aesthetic of “classic” rather than “contemporary.”

If you’ve only ever rented in buildings from the last decade, tour in person before committing. The vibe is different.

Pet Policy: Why “No Weight Limit” Matters

If you have pets—especially dogs—South Congress Square is worth a closer look. Here’s the full policy:

Why “No Weight Limit” Is a Big Deal

Most Austin apartments cap pet weight at 25-75 pounds. That eliminates:

• German Shepherds (65-90 lbs)
• Golden Retrievers (55-75 lbs)
• Labrador Retrievers (55-80 lbs)
• Great Danes (110-175 lbs)
• Rottweilers (80-135 lbs)
• Bernese Mountain Dogs (70-115 lbs)

Large dog? Your apartment options in walkable Austin neighborhoods shrink dramatically. South Congress Square’s no-weight-limit policy genuinely expands your choices. The dog trail on property is a nice bonus.

We maintain a full list of apartments in Austin that allow large dogs—it’s shorter than you’d think.

RPM is known for not having breed restrictions but you should verify your specific breed and ask the leasing office before applying. Don’t assume. The $50 application fee is non-refundable. A breed restriction denial is a $50 lesson in reading the fine print. Call the leasing office and ask directly: “Is [breed] on your restricted list?”

The ESA Option

If you have a legitimate need for an emotional support animal, ESA protections under the Fair Housing Act mean:

• No pet deposit required
• No monthly pet rent
• Breed restrictions don’t apply
• Weight limits don’t apply

Housing providers cannot charge someone with an ESA any pet-related fees, deposits, or rent—even if they charge other tenants such fees. Over a 12-month lease at South Congress Square, that’s $400 (deposit) + $240 (pet rent) = $640 in savings with a valid ESA letter.

ESA letters require documentation from a licensed mental health professional. This isn’t a loophole for people who just want to avoid pet fees—it’s a legitimate accommodation for those who qualify.

Will You Get Approved? Screening Criteria Explained

This is the section no listing site gives you. And it’s the section that can save you $50-250 in wasted application fees.

The Qualification Math

South Congress Square requires income of at least 3x the monthly rent. Here’s what that means in actual dollars:

If you don’t hit 3x rent, your application will likely be denied. This is the most common reason for denials that I see. People apply for units they love but can’t technically afford by the property’s formula.

The math is simple. Take the monthly rent, multiply by 3, compare to your gross (pre-tax) monthly income. Short? You have a few options:

1. Look at a smaller/cheaper unit at this property
2. Add a co-applicant whose income combines with yours
3. Find a property with lower income requirements (some accept 2.5x)
4. Use a guarantor if the property allows it

Application Fees and Costs

That $50 application fee is gone whether you’re approved or denied. The $200 admin fee is charged at lease signing, not application. If you’re denied, you’re out $50. If you apply as a couple and both get denied, you’re out $100.

This is why I recommend knowing your approval odds before you apply. It’s not about gaming the system—it’s about not throwing money away. Our guide to the Austin apartment application process walks through what to expect step by step.

What We Know vs. What You Need to Verify

Here’s what’s publicly documented:

• Income requirement: 3x monthly rent ✓
• Application fee: $50 ✓
• Admin fee: $200 ✓

Here’s what you need to verify directly with the leasing office before applying:

• Minimum credit score (not publicly listed)
• Rental history lookback period (typically 3-7 years)
• How they handle collections/charge-offs
• Criminal background criteria (felony lookback periods)
• How they verify self-employment income

Every property has different thresholds, and they don’t publish them. Calling to ask “What’s your minimum credit score?” is perfectly normal—leasing agents answer this question daily.

If You Have Credit or Rental History Challenges

Older buildings like South Congress Square often have more flexible screening than new Class A construction. Not a guarantee—just a pattern I’ve observed across hundreds of client placements.

If you’re dealing with:

• Credit under 600: Verify the minimum before applying. Some properties are 580. Some are 650.
• Broken lease history: Ask about their lookback period. If it’s 3 years and your broken lease is from 2021, you may be clear.
• Outstanding property debt: This is harder. Most properties auto-deny for unpaid balances to previous landlords.
• Eviction on record: Ask about their policy explicitly. Some decline within 5 years. Some within 7.
• Felony conviction: Lookback periods vary. Ask before you apply.

The key is asking before spending the application fee. Leasing agents would rather tell you upfront than process a denial—it’s paperwork for them too. Once you do apply, approval typically takes 24-72 hours depending on verification requirements.

The Locator Advantage

This is what I do: I know which properties work with which situations. Fill out our intake form and I can tell you within a day whether South Congress Square is likely to approve you based on your profile. If not, I’ll point you toward nearby alternatives that might. You can also prequalify online to see where you stand.

That’s not sales pitch. It’s literally my job. And it doesn’t cost you anything. The property pays my referral fee from their advertising budget after you move in. You pay nothing extra.

If you want to know your approval odds before applying, get started here.

What Residents Actually Say: 24 Google Reviews Analyzed

Listing sites show you the 4.3-star rating. They don’t tell you what patterns emerge when you actually read all 24 reviews.

I did.

The Rating Context

A 4.3 with 24 reviews is solid but not overwhelming. For context: The Muse at SoCo has 3.9 stars across 200+ reviews. Crescent has 3.8 stars. South Congress Square’s smaller review pool means each review carries more weight. But the consistency of positive feedback is notable.

What Residents Consistently Praise

Reading through the reviews, three themes appear repeatedly:

1. Location (mentioned in 80%+ of positive reviews)

• “Location doesn’t get any better than this”
• “Right next to cool places”
• “Closeness to downtown”
• “Being on Bouldin Creek, on Congress, near the trail”

This tracks with the Walk Score 83. Residents who value walkability and SoCo access are consistently happy.

2. Management responsiveness (mentioned specifically 4 times)

• “Responsive management”
• “Current management is helpful, courteous, and always quick to respond”
• “The property manager needs promotion for the awesome customer service”

The property is managed by RPM Living. Reviews suggest the on-site team is engaged—management responds to virtually every review, positive or negative.

3. Return residents

This detail stood out to me: at least one reviewer explicitly mentions moving back after living elsewhere.

“I love Congress Square so much I moved back after a few year hiatus!”

Another long-term resident mentions living there “close to five years.” Return residents and multi-year tenants are a signal that’s hard to fake. People don’t move back to properties they hate. They don’t stay for five years at places that frustrate them.

The Negative Review You’ll See (And What It Actually Means)

There’s one notably negative review. It mentions the complex being “severely run down” with “frequent homeless” and a pool “not at all like the photos.”

Here’s the context: this review is tagged “For AIRBNB ONLY” and explicitly references “the 15 Airbnbs in this listing.” This is a short-term rental guest reviewing the Airbnb experience. Not a resident reviewing the apartment community.

The property’s management responded and noted the same: the feedback “is regarding the short-term rental hosts that offer apartments in our community, and these concerns are not a reflection of our team or what we offer our residents.”

Does this mean the criticism is invalid? Not entirely. If there are 15 units being operated as Airbnbs, that does affect community character—more transient guests, potentially less investment in the property by those owners. But the review is not representative of the resident experience. Mixing Airbnb guest complaints with apartment reviews skews the picture.

What Reviews Don’t Tell You

Here’s what you won’t find in any Google review:

• Screening criteria. Nobody reviews “they approved me with a 590 credit score.” This information doesn’t exist in the review ecosystem.
• Actual costs. Reviews mention “value” but don’t break down net effective rent or utility savings.
• Comparison context. Reviewers aren’t saying “this is $400/month cheaper than The Muse with better walkability.”

That’s the gap this review fills. Reviews tell you how people feel. I’m telling you how the numbers work. That’s what a free Austin apartment locator brings to the table.

How South Congress Square Compares to Nearby Options

You have six properties within a quarter-mile of South Congress Square. Here’s how they actually stack up. Not just on price—on the tradeoffs that matter.

The Comparison Framework

I evaluate SoCo properties across five factors:

1. True cost (rent + utilities + fees)
2. Build quality (year built, renovations)
3. Screening flexibility (how strict is approval?)
4. Pet policy (weight limits, breed restrictions)
5. Walkability (actual Walk Score)

Most renters optimize for 2-3 of these. Knowing which ones matter to you determines which property fits.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Pricing verified January 2026. Always confirm current rates directly.

The Decision Framework

Choose South Congress Square if:

• Utilities included matters (saves $1,500-2,500/year)
• You have a large dog (no weight limit)
• You want SoCo walkability without SoCo luxury pricing
• You’re okay with 1971 character over 2016 finishes

Choose Crescent if:

• Newer construction matters more than included utilities
• Your dog is under 75 lbs
• You want a lower base rent and will manage utilities yourself
• You prioritize 2008 finishes over 1971 character

Choose The Muse at SoCo if:

• Budget isn’t the primary constraint
• You want the highest Walk Score (85) in the area
• You have a small dog or no pets (50 lb limit)
• You’re willing to pay premium for the name/finishes

For more upscale options in this area, see our luxury South Austin apartments guide.

Choose 422 at The Lake if:

• Newest construction is the priority (2016)
• You want lake proximity and water views
• Your credit/income is strong (newer = stricter screening)
• Base rent matters more than all-in cost

Choose Timbercreek if:

• Budget is the #1 factor
• You’re okay with basic amenities
• You need the lowest possible rent in SoCo
• You’ll trade finishes for savings

Choose The Willows if:

• You want a middle-ground option
• Older doesn’t bother you
• Price sensitivity is moderate

The Math That Changes Everything

Here’s what the comparison table doesn’t show: true monthly cost.

South Congress Square 1BR: $1,171 rent + $0 utilities = $1,171 true cost

Crescent 1BR: $1,325 rent + $150 utilities (avg) = $1,475 true cost

The Muse 1BR: $2,010 rent + $150 utilities (avg) = $2,160 true cost

South Congress Square is now the clear winner on price—and it’s not close. Even before the one-month-free special, you’re paying $300/month less than Crescent and nearly $1,000/month less than The Muse.

Factor in the current special:

South Congress Square net effective: $1,074/month

You’re saving $400/month vs. Crescent and over $1,000/month vs. The Muse—with included utilities, a higher Walk Score than Crescent, and no weight limit on pets.

This is why I tell clients to calculate net effective rent, not just compare sticker prices. The “cheapest” option on paper isn’t always the cheapest option in reality—but in this case, South Congress Square wins on both.

The Screening Reality Across Properties

Here’s insider knowledge you won’t find on listing sites:

Newer construction (422 at The Lake, Crescent) = stricter screening. These properties can afford to be picky. If your credit is below 650 or you have rental history issues, expect more friction.

Older construction (South Congress Square, Timbercreek, The Willows) = often more flexible. This isn’t universal, but it’s a pattern. Older properties with higher vacancy rates are more likely to work with imperfect applications.

If you’re dealing with credit challenges, the 1971 builds in this comparison may be more realistic targets than the 2016 construction—even if the newer building looks more appealing on paper.

The Downsides: What This Property Won’t Tell You

I’ve covered a lot of positives. Now the honest list of drawbacks—the stuff the property marketing won’t highlight.

1. No in-unit laundry. The “washer/dryer connection” listing language is misleading. You get hookups, not machines. Most residents use shared laundry facilities. Used to doing laundry at midnight in your own unit? This is an adjustment.

2. 1971 construction realities. Older buildings have quirks. Some noise transfer between units. Dated electrical capacity (may struggle with multiple high-draw appliances). Windows that aren’t as energy-efficient as modern builds. The included utilities offset the efficiency issue, but the character comes with trade-offs.

3. No fitness center. If a gym is part of your daily routine, you’ll need an outside membership. Budget $30-50/month for that if it matters.

4. Parking limitations. Surface lot is standard. Covered parking is limited and not guaranteed. Two vehicles could get tight. Street parking in this area isn’t always convenient.

5. Breed restrictions still apply. “No weight limit” doesn’t mean “all breeds welcome.” The typical restricted breed list (pit bulls, Rottweilers, etc.) likely applies. Verify your specific breed before applying.

None of these are dealbreakers for the right renter. But they’re dealbreakers for someone—and you deserve to know before you tour, not after you’ve signed. Our guide to signing an Austin apartment lease covers what to look for before you commit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What credit score do I need for South Congress Square?

The property doesn’t publicly disclose a minimum credit score. Based on typical screening for older, Class B properties in Austin, expect a minimum somewhere between 550-620. Call the leasing office directly to verify before applying—this saves you the $50 non-refundable application fee if your score falls short. First-time renters often have limited credit history rather than bad credit—different issue, different approach.

Does South Congress Square allow dogs?

Yes. The property allows up to 2 pets with no weight limit—which is rare in Austin. However, breed restrictions likely apply (verify your specific breed). Pet deposit is $400 (non-refundable) plus $20/month pet rent per pet.

Are utilities included at South Congress Square?

Yes—gas, electric, and trash are included in rent. This is a significant cost advantage. At comparable SoCo properties, you’d pay $130-220/month extra for these utilities. Over a 12-month lease, that’s $1,560-$2,640 in savings.

How far is South Congress Square from downtown Austin?

About 0.8 miles to 6th Street—roughly a 5-minute drive or 16-minute walk. The Walk Score is 83 (Very Walkable), and you’re directly on the South Congress corridor with easy access to Lady Bird Lake trail (8-minute walk).

Is there in-unit laundry at South Congress Square?

No. The listing mentions “washer/dryer connection,” which means hookups exist if you want to bring your own machines. Most residents use the shared on-site laundry rooms.

What is the income requirement?

You need to earn at least 3x the monthly rent in gross (pre-tax) income. For a 1BR at $1,171, that’s $3,513/month or $42,156/year. For a 2BR at $1,478, you need $4,434/month or $53,208/year.

What are the fees at South Congress Square?

• Application fee: $50/person (non-refundable)
• Admin fee: $200
• Security deposit: Varies by credit
• Pet deposit: $400/pet (non-refundable)
• Pet rent: $20/month per pet

What schools serve South Congress Square?

The property is in Austin ISD. Different sources show varying school assignments—some listing Travis Heights Elementary/Fulmore Middle/Travis High, others showing different schools. School boundaries can change, so verify your exact assignment using the Austin ISD School Finder by entering the property address before making decisions based on schools.

How long does the application process take?

Typically 24-72 hours for approval once you submit a complete application. Have your ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or offer letter), and application fee ready. For more details, see our guide to apartment approval timelines.

Can I negotiate rent at South Congress Square?

Possibly. The current one-month-free special is already competitive, but there may be room to negotiate on admin fees or move-in timing—especially if you’re flexible on your start date or signing a longer lease. It never hurts to ask. A locator can sometimes leverage relationships to get additional concessions.

Is South Congress Square safe?

The property is in the 78704 zip code, one of Austin’s most established neighborhoods. Like any urban area, exercise normal precautions. The SoCo corridor sees foot traffic from tourists and locals, which generally means more eyes on the street. For specific crime data, check the Austin Police Department’s crime mapping tool.

The Bottom Line

South Congress Square is a genuine value play in one of Austin’s most desirable walkable neighborhoods.

The math tells the story: 1BR rents starting at $1,171 drop to $1,074 net effective with the current special. Add the $130-220/month you’re not paying in utilities. You’re looking at an all-in cost that beats newer properties by $400-1,000 per month for the same (or better) Walk Score.

It’s not for everyone. Need in-unit laundry, a fitness center, or 2020s finishes? Keep looking. Have a restricted breed or can’t hit 3x the rent in income? This won’t work either.

But if you’re a remote worker who wants SoCo walkability, a pet owner with a large dog, or a budget-conscious renter who’d rather save $10,000+ per year than have granite counters—South Congress Square belongs on your short list.

Want Help Deciding?

Apartment hunting in Austin is my full-time job. I know which properties fit which situations. I can tell you within a day whether South Congress Square is likely to approve your application—or point you toward better alternatives if not.

My service is free to you. The property pays my referral fee from their advertising budget after you move in. You pay nothing extra. And you get someone in your corner who knows this market inside out.

Get started with a free apartment search →

Or, if you want to compare current move-in specials across Austin, we track those too.

Review last updated: January 2026. Pricing and specials verified directly. Screening criteria should be confirmed with the property before applying.