Possible relocation. Where to rent? (Austin, Spring: apartment complexes, rentals, condos)

[shaedabluz]

I am possibly relocating to Austin and would be working just off Burleson, south of 71. I know that is mostly industrial directly around there. Where would be a good place to rent somewhat nearby with shopping, some restaurants & such? I'm early 40's, single, no pets, former part-time musician (possibly starting again). Not looking to buy a house, not that much into doing yard work, since I don't own a lawnmower or other implements of destruction! What are your thoughts on this? Thanks.

[atxcio]

Without knowing your budget... I'd suggest South Congress, or South Lamar north of Ben White.

A little more funky, eclectic -- East of downtown. Younger demographic, though.

All these places would be an easy commute to your job. The former via 71/Ben White, the latter via Pleasant Valley; want to avoid any commute that includes I35. All have plenty of rentals in the form of apartments and condos, with a variety of price ranges. All have a great connection to the music scene.

[shaedabluz]

My budget should be between $900-1200 per month. I was looking into apartments around I-35 & Stassney, that looks like commute would be quick & easy. But not having been to the area, I'm not sure how the neighborhoods or complexes are around there.

[CptnRn]

Check this article out about the changes coming to East Riverside Drive. The area is upgrading, great location for access to downtown and your job.

Is East Riverside Drive going to become a new upscale apartment neighborhood?

This crime heat map will help you visualize the high crime areas. But keep in mind that violent crime is really low in Austin, while property crime is high, mostly auto burglaries and petty theft. http://www.trulia.com/local/#crimes/austin-tx

Map based apartment locator http://www.padmapper.com/

In regard to the IH-35 & Slaughter Lane area, Dove Springs East of that intersection has a lot of poverty and some of that has crept West of IH-35 also. Much of that area along IH35 & South Congress is light industrial but some parts of it are upgrading with new apartments.

If I were you I would consider one of the many apartment complexes around Sunset Valley to the West along Hwy 71 and commute East on 71 to work. It would be an easy commute.

Edit: to update link to crime heat map, the previous Beta link was out of date.