When it comes to neighborhoods, we've dished the dirt on the 10 best, the five up-and-comers, and the five most expensive. Now it's time to cater to cribs that keep you tuned in without being tied down. Yep, it's time to take a look at Phoenix's coolest apartments. From Grand Avenue and Midtown to Roosevelt Row and downtown central, here are our top five picks for renting in the city.
See also: 10 Best Neighborhoods in Metro Phoenix
For the downtown artist who enjoys First Friday art walks as much as they heart vegan pies and PBRs, there's no better oasis than the Oasis on Grand. This motel turned colorful apartment complex is located in the heart of the Grand Avenue Arts District and is close to nightlife hubs including Bikini Lounge, Trunk Space, Bragg's Pie Factory, and Bragg's Factory Diner. Rent ranges from $409 to $689 with studios and one- and two-bedroom units available. Although the apartments are modest in size, they feature updated appliances, balconies, and block walls ideal for blocking out unwanted sound and heat. Visit www.oasisongrand.com or call 602-358-8185.
CityScape Residences fill one of downtown's newest and nicest apartment structures, located directly above the Hotel Palomar. Turns out, there are some serious perks to living directly above a hotel, including room service from Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails and Breakfast Club, cleaning service for $40, exclusive gym, pool and club access overlooking the downtown skyline, and discounts at virtually all CityScape establishments. Although the building is still under construction (floors 24 and 25 have yet to be finished) currently available apartments' rents run from $1,390 to $3,337. The high-rise complex offers floorplans named Tweed, Anderson, and Montgomery with such features as hardwood floors, high-ceilings, brand new kitchen appliances, in-unit washer and dryer, and a balcony. For more information, visit www.cityscaperesidences.com or call 855-814-4161.
Aura at Midtown is for those who want to be close to the hustle and bustle of downtown living. This cluster of newly renovated mid-century apartments feels more like a community than a complex with outdoor amenities including two swimming pools, barbecues, bocce ball, cornhole, shuffleboard, and an organic garden. Best of all, it's walking distance to such downtown staples as the Clarendon Hotel, Hidden House Lounge, and the light rail. Prices are between $750 and $1275 a month. One-, two-, and three-bedroom floorplans are available with square footage ranging from 714 to 1,245. While the apartments have been updated with new appliances, hardwood-style flooring, and fresh coats of paint, the integrity of the historic building, including bathroom tiling, hardware, and lighting, have been graciously preserved. For details, visit aura.lifeatmidtown.com or call 1-866-287-4037.
As the tallest residential building in downtown Phoenix, 44 Monroe probably needs no introduction. The $70 million structure was erected in 2008 and stood nearly vacant for years before upscale urbanites started snatching up units and enjoying what is arguably the best view of the city. At 44 Monroe, residents have access to their own pool, gym, above-ground parking, and clubhouse with a wet bar, pool tables, and satellite TV. The residents at 44 Monroe live near downtown hotspots including the Hotel San Carlos, Crescent Ballroom, Seamus McCaffrey's, and Hanny's. Apartments are priced between $1,420 and $4,500 with one-, two-, three-bedroom and penthouse floorplans available. Apartment features include full granite countertop kitchens with Whirlpool appliances, private balconies, in-unit washer and dryer, and did we mention that view? Visit www.44monroe.com or call 855-205-3149.
What Skyline Lofts lacks in color it makes up for in size and location. The mammoth apartment complex is a stone's throw from First Fridays on Roosevelt Row, shows at Space 55 and FilmBar, and dinner and drinks at such places as Pizzeria Bianco and Bliss ReBar. Residents at Skyline Lofts have access to a large pool and barbecue courtyard, gym, and lounge. Rent runs from $1,087 to $3,397. Floor plans come in studio, one, two, or three bedroom designs, and penthouses. Apartment features include exposed concrete floors and ceilings, in-unit washer and dryer, Whirpool kitchen appliances, and balconies. Visit www.skylineloftsapartments.com or call 602-374-7133.
