Before you sign a lease in Downtown Austin, it helps to look beyond rent. When you’re comparing floor plans or touring apartments, it’s easy to focus on location, layout and views. Many renters overlook the extra monthly costs, things like smart home tech, amenity access or valet trash service.
At Paseo, we know choosing the right home isn’t just about location. It’s about the lifestyle, the details and the additional, sometimes hidden, costs that come with downtown living.
Here’s a breakdown of 13 common apartment fees in downtown Austin, so you can compare options and plan with confidence.
Read Next: Fees at Paseo: Full Breakdown of Monthly and One-Time Costs
1. Application & Administrative Fees
Most communities charge an application fee, usually $50–$100, to cover background and credit checks. Some also add an admin fee of $150–$300 for processing.
2. Security Deposits
Security deposits are common across Austin apartments and are usually refundable. They can range anywhere from $250 to one month’s rent, covering potential damages that may occur during your lease. Some communities also offer deposit alternatives with a smaller non-refundable fee.
3. Parking Fees
Parking downtown is always in high demand. Some apartments include parking in the cost of rent while others may charge roughly $100–$250 per month.
Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Parking in Downtown Austin
4. Utilities
Utility costs vary based on usage and apartment size. Electricity in Austin averages $50–$150 a month. Water, sewage and trash add $30–$75 and internet or cable runs $50–$100.
5. Renter’s Insurance
Almost every apartment in Austin requires renter’s insurance before move-in. Plans are affordable, typically ranging from $10–$30 per month, and cover personal belongings and liability. Many providers may let you bundle with auto insurance for savings.
Read Next: A Guide to Renter’s Insurance in Austin, TX
6. Monthly Trash & Valet Fees
Some apartments include trash removal in rent, while others add a monthly fee for valet pickup or recycling service.
7. Smart Apartment Technology Fees
Smart home bundles are increasingly common, typically $25–$100 a month, with some communities charging extra each month for features like keyless entry, smart thermostats or required internet packages.
8. Amenity & Lifestyle Fees
Many luxury apartment communities charge an amenity fee for access to pools, fitness centers, co-working spaces and resident lounges. These typically range from $30 to $150 per month.
9. Moving Costs
Moving adds up quickly. Movers usually charge $25–$50 per hour, storage units run $100–$500 a month and cleaning services can add another $100–$300.
At Paseo, we’ve partnered with Pack N’ Go Movers, our exclusive moving vendor, to make move-in day stress-free.
Right now, new residents can receive a $500 move-in credit for signature units and $750 for elevated units when booking through our partner.*
Read Next: 13 Questions You Should Ask When Touring a Luxury Apartment in Downtown Austin
10. Pet Deposits & Pet Rent
Most downtown Austin high-rises charge a nonrefundable pet fee, typically between $250 and $600, along with monthly pet rent of $30 to $60 per pet. Many communities also require a pet screening process before move-in.
11. Monthly Pest Control
Some communities charge a few dollars per month for pest control, while others include it in rent. It’s a small fee, but one worth factoring in when you compare leases.
12. Smart Home & Upgrade Packages
Some communities offer optional upgrade packages, typically $50–$300 extra each month, for premium finishes or advanced connected features.
Read Next: How to Lease a Downtown Austin Apartment in 4 Simple Steps
13. Flexible Lease Terms & Short-Term Fees
Short-term leases often come with a premium to cover the flexibility of a shorter contract. Whether you’re planning a temporary stay or testing out downtown living, it’s helpful to know how those costs compare across the market.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick look at additional fees commonly found at luxury apartments across the market.
Comparison of Additional Costs at Downtown Austin Apartments
One-Time Fees
| Communities | App Fee | Admin Fee | Base Deposit* | Non-refundable Pet Fee (Optional) |
| Paseo | $100 | $250 | $1,000-$1,500 | $400 |
| 415 Colorado | $300 | $0 | $900-$2,000 | $350 |
| 700 River | $250 | $0 | $500-$1,500 | $300 |
| ATX Tower | $75 | $300 | $500-$1,100 | $350 |
| The Quincy | $50 | $400 | $500-$1,000 | $400 |
Monthly Fees
| Communities | Garage Parking (Optional)* | Trash/Valet Service | Pest Control | Amenity/CAM Fee* | Pet Rent (Optional) | Internet |
| Paseo | $150-$350 | $23 (trash only) | $10 | $150-$250 | $30 | $80 |
| 415 Colorado | $150 | $30 (trash only) | $5 | $125-$150 | $30 | Usage based |
| 700 River | $175-$700 | $6 (trash + valet) | $8 | $150-$300 | $30 | $50 |
| ATX Tower | $150 | $50 (trash + valet) | $5 | $100 | $30 | $70 |
| The Quincy | $125-$200 | $25 (valet only) | $5 | $75 | $35 | $0 |
*Fees and deposits listed are based on publicly available information as of publication in October 2025. Amounts may vary by floor plan, unit type or current leasing specials. Always confirm directly with each property’s leasing office before applying.
Downtown living comes with incredible perks and a handful of extra costs that renters often overlook. From admin fees to amenity packages, knowing what’s included and what isn’t helps you plan confidently before move-in without surprises.
If you’re comparing options, Paseo’s leasing team can walk you through what applies here and what doesn’t, so you have a full picture before signing.
Nirosha Perera
Nirosha is the general manager at Paseo, with eight years of experience in property management. She spent 24 years living in Dubai before moving to the U.S. When she’s not at work, you’ll find her kicking off the day at the gym, exploring new restaurants, or playing fetch with her cat, Shadow.
October 6, 2025