Here at ABODO, our favorite section of the Sunday New York Times is obviously Real Estate. (Although the copywriters are particularly fond of the Book Review.) And our favorite recurring column is What You Get for…, which highlights three properties in different parts of the country, all of which cost the same amount.
That amount is typically in the millions, or at least the high six figures, which makes the column a fun glimpse into how the other half lives. But it’s not often all that helpful to a potential renter.
That’s why we’re introducing our own spin on the idea. Each month, we’ll highlight nine rentals across the country, priced reasonably at around $1,000. Big places, small places, places with pools — in big cities and college towns; on the east coast, the west coast, and everywhere in between.
So sit back, relax, and try to keep your apartment envy in check.
1. BIRMINGHAM, AL.
WHAT: A two-bedroom townhouse with a covered front porch, screened-in back-patio, and backyard. The interior features cathedral ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, and extra-large walk-in closets.
HOW MUCH: $925 per month.
SIZE: 2 BR, 2 BA
SETTING: Located in Pinson, a small suburb of Birmingham, this house is a short 15 minute drive from downtown. It’s situated in a small new development, with convenient access to grocery stores, a bowling alley, and several bars.
CONTACT: (205) 824-5008
2. CHICAGO, IL.
WHAT: A two-bedroom apartment a few blocks west of beautiful Humboldt Park. Newly remodeled and freshly painted, the apartment has hardwood floors throughout.
HOW MUCH: $975 per month.
SIZE: 2 BR, 2 BA
SETTING: Historically, Humboldt Park has long been the center of Puerto Rican life in Chicago. Recently, its lower rents and central location have brought new tenants, attracted both by the area’s vibrant cultural life and proximity to both Wicker Park and Logan Square.
CONTACT: (312) 829-2273
3. LOUISVILLE, KY.
WHAT: A 655-square-foot apartment in Waterside at Riverpark Place, a waterfront complex located on the banks of the Ohio River. Enjoy high ceilings, granite countertops, in-unit laundry, as well as numerous common spaces, including two pools, a volleyball court, an exercise facility, and a media room. Oh, and a dock, open to all tenants.
HOW MUCH: $970 per month
SIZE: 1 BR, 1 BA
SETTING: RiverPark Place is inside of Thruston Park, which runs along the Ohio River and offers walking trails, water recreation, and stunning views of downtown Louisville. To the immediate south is Butchertown, a former industrial area that has been revitalized in recent years to be a popular dining and shopping destination.
CONTACT: (502) 716-6710
4. PITTSBURGH, PA.
WHAT: A sprawling two-story house with truly unique interior design. Renovated in the 1970s by a builder, the house bears the traces of an eccentric vision: gorgeous wooden staircases, ornate wallpaper, a kitchen that looks like the inside of a Bavarian tavern. The listing describes the decor as “The Brady Bunch look,” and it’s hard to disagree. Check out the bathroom, which features marble countertops, black porcelain, gold fixtures, and a bathtub with carpeted stairs.
HOW MUCH: $1000 per month.
SIZE: 4BR, 2BA
SETTING: Carnegie, just across the river from downtown Pittsburgh. It’s a 10 minute drive into the city, or a two minute walk to Main Street, hipster haven and dining destination.
CONTACT: (412) 334-8436
5. PORTLAND, OR.
WHAT: A room in a historic house in north Portland. Built in 1912, this two-story, five-bedroom Craftsman features original fixtures and detailing: hardwood floors and panelling, pocket doors, beautiful paned glass, built-in-shelving, a heavy wood buffet. There is a fenced-in, low-maintenance yard and an enormous front porch, as well as five parking spaces in the back. The house is partly furnished and includes several chandeliers (and four skylights).
HOW MUCH: $950 per month.
SIZE: 1 BR, plus shared use of common spaces (bathrooms, kitchen, living areas, etc).
SETTING: Just on the edge of the Alberta Arts District, this house is steps away from dozens of cool bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s also within walking distance of Portland Community College.
CONTACT: (503) 406-3751
6. SALT LAKE CITY, UT.
WHAT: A 750-square-foot apartment in the City Station complex in downtown Salt Lake City. Enjoy a year-round spa, sun deck, covered parking, and secure, gated access. In-unit, the apartments feature walk-in closets, energy efficient appliances, and granite countertops.
HOW MUCH: $909 per month.
SIZE: 1 BR, 1 BA
SETTING: Downtown Salt Lake City, within walking distance of both the Energy Solutions Arena (home of the Utah Jazz) and The Depot, one of the city’s biggest live music venues. City Station is also conveniently located a block from a stop on the city’s light rail service.
CONTACT: (801) 869-8200
7. SAN ANTONIO, TX.
WHAT: An 775-square-foot apartment at The Beverly, a former hotel that’s been renovated into a funky, art-deco-inspired upscale apartment complex. Expect bold, patterned wallpaper, vintage chandeliers, and bright colors. There’s a 24-hour exercise room, a private courtyard with a pool, and covered parking for all. Units feature hardwood floors, granite countertops, new stainless-steel appliances, and “waterfall-style” showerheads.
HOW MUCH: $878 per month.
SIZE: 1 BR
SETTING: Northside San Antonio is booming, and The Beverly is within walking distance of Brackenridge Park and shopping on Broadway. It’s also within striking range of The Pearl, an upscale shopping district on the site of the former Pearl Brewery that plays host to some of San Antonio’s newest and best bars and restaurants.
CONTACT: (210) 828-1191
8. ST. LOUIS, MO.
WHAT: A 737-square-foot apartment in a historic building near the Saint Louis University Hospital. The three-story building is a former creamery and displays the distinctive red brick of classic Saint Louis architecture. The apartment has an open, loft-style layout with high ceilings, and features hardwood floors, views of downtown, new granite countertops, and modern stainless steel appliances. The building also includes an exercise studio and gorgeous common spaces, replete with the creamery’s original, distinctive tiling.
HOW MUCH: $900 per month.
SIZE: 1 BR, 1 BA
SETTING: South St. Louis is a bustling center for nightlife, dining, and culture. Steps away from Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Gardens, as well as the South Grand business district and historic Lafayette Square, this apartment is conveniently located in an in-demand area. And it’s just minutes from downtown.
CONTACT: (314) 450-8680
9. TOLEDO, OH.
WHAT: A gigantic, 1250-square-foot apartment at the historic Hillcrest, a nine-story former hotel in downtown Toledo. The ceilings are high, the interiors are antique, and the views are terrific. Also on offer: a parking garage, fitness center, and secure, gated entry.
HOW MUCH: $950 per month.
SIZE: 2 BR, 2 BA
SETTING: Built in 1929, the Hillcrest is situated just north of Toledo’s Warehouse District, whose formerly derelict industrial spaces have in recent years been converted into in-demand real estate. Some of Toledo’s best bars, restaurants, and cultural spaces are within walking distance. So is Fifth Third Field, home of the Toledo’s beloved minor league baseball team, The Mud Hens.
CONTACT: (419) 244-7078
* “Rent $1,000” image courtesy of BuzzFeed
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