🌆 Why Riverside Feels Like College Station… But in Austin!
HOWDY Ags! When I first drove down Riverside, it honestly gave me flashbacks to Aggieland. Tons of young people, plenty of apartments to choose from, and an energy that feels like everyone here is also just starting out in their careers. It’s not uncommon to meet people who just graduated from UT, Texas State, or even fellow Aggies who decided Austin was the next step.
It’s got that student/young professional vibe that makes it easy to feel like you’re not alone in this new city. And if you miss being around people your age like in College Station, Riverside is as close as you’ll get in Austin.
🚗 Location, Location, Location
One of the biggest perks? Proximity to Downtown. From Riverside, you’re just across Lady Bird Lake, so it’s a quick Uber or scooter ride to Rainey Street, East 6th, or South Congress. You don’t have to deal with the insane traffic that people further out fight every day, and it makes going out with friends a lot easier (and cheaper on gas).
If you work downtown, you’re looking at a 10-15 minute commute tops, which is golden compared to other parts of the city.
💸 Rent That Doesn’t Break the Bank (For Now)
Austin rents can be wild, but Riverside has long been known as one of the more affordable areas near the core. While some parts of Riverside are starting to gentrify (aka: the shiny new apartment complexes and coffee shops), you can still find deals here that fit a recent grad budget.
When I was searching, Riverside apartments consistently came in lower than places like South Lamar or The Domain, and you still get the advantage of being close to the action.
🎶 Culture + Social Life
Living here, you’re surrounded by music, food trucks, and people always on the move. Weekends feel alive, whether you’re hitting a dive bar nearby or just heading across the river for live music. Plus, Riverside has a reputation for being a little more laid back and eclectic than some of the other polished Austin neighborhoods.
It’s not the fanciest area in town, but honestly, that’s what makes it fun—it’s still got character.
⚠️ The Honest Truth: Things to Watch Out For
Like any area, Riverside isn’t perfect. Some parts can feel a little sketchy late at night, and parking lots can be a hotspot for car break-ins if you’re not careful. It’s definitely not River Oaks in Houston or Highland Park in Dallas. But if you’re smart about where you rent (stick to well-lit, newer complexes if you can), Riverside offers a great balance of price, convenience, and social life.
👍 Final Thoughts From This New Aggie Grad
If you’re a recent Texas A&M grad moving to Austin, Riverside is worth putting at the top of your list. It’s affordable (by Austin standards), close to everything you’ll want to do, and full of other young professionals trying to figure out life after college—just like you.
So if you’re hunting for an apartment in Austin and want that Aggie community feel with an Austin twist, you just might fall in love with Riverside like I did. 💯
💬 Aggies in Austin—have y’all lived in Riverside? Drop your experiences below! Would love to hear if it worked for you or if you found another hidden gem spot in Austin.
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Aggies—find your perfect apartment in your new city for FREE with Howdy Apartments! We’ll guide you on the best areas, recommend the right places, and even set up your tours. 100% free and Aggie-focused.
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📲 Call or text me anytime: Grant – 214-492-9791
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