From Gardens to Gyms—Top Apartment Community Amenities Residents Love
Why Community Amenities Matter More Than Ever
Best apartment community amenities have become the deciding factor for most renters in 2024. These shared features—from rooftop pools to co-working spaces—go far beyond basic housing needs to create lifestyle experiences that keep residents happy and willing to renew their leases.
Top apartment community amenities residents want most:
- Fitness centers with modern equipment and group classes
- Outdoor spaces like rooftop decks, gardens, and grilling areas
- Smart technology including keyless entry and package lockers
- Pet amenities such as dog parks and grooming stations
- Co-working spaces with high-speed Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Parking solutions including EV charging and bike storage
- Security features like controlled access and 24/7 staff
- Social venues including lounges, game rooms, and event spaces
The numbers tell the story: 57% of residents would agree to a monthly rent increase of at least $20 for smart home features, while 31% of renters would pay up to $10 extra per month for easier package retrieval. Nearly 90% of renters say they wouldn't consider moving to an apartment without reliable cell service or good Wi-Fi connectivity.
Community amenities differ from in-unit features because they're shared spaces that encourage social connection and provide services residents would otherwise pay for elsewhere. A well-equipped fitness center can replace a gym membership, while a co-working lounge eliminates the need for expensive coffee shop workdays.
What counts as an apartment "amenity"?
An apartment amenity is any non-essential feature or service that goes beyond the basic requirements of functional housing. While your apartment needs working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems to be livable, amenities are the extras that make life more convenient, enjoyable, or luxurious.
Community amenities are shared spaces and services available to all residents, like fitness centers, pools, lounges, and concierge services. In-unit amenities are features within individual apartments, such as stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, or in-unit washers and dryers.
60% of people, from large families to single Gen Zers, say their living space reflects their identity, and community amenities play a major role in creating that sense of belonging.
Amenities vs necessities
Understanding the difference between amenities and necessities helps both renters and property managers make informed decisions. Necessities include functional heating and air conditioning, working plumbing, adequate lighting, and basic security measures like locks on doors.
Amenities add value beyond these basics. A standard kitchen becomes an amenity when it features granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Regular lighting becomes an amenity when it includes smart controls or designer fixtures.
What Makes the Best Apartment Community Amenities in 2024?
The best apartment community amenities in 2024 aren't just nice-to-have extras—they're problem-solving features that make residents' lives genuinely better. Today's renters want amenities that work as hard as they do, supporting everything from remote work to wellness goals while creating opportunities to connect with neighbors.
Convenience drives everything in 2024's amenity landscape. Residents want features that streamline their daily routines rather than complicate them. Smart package lockers beat waiting around for deliveries. On-site laundry facilities win over trips to the laundromat.
Cost savings matter just as much as convenience. When an amenity replaces something you'd pay for elsewhere, it becomes incredibly valuable. A well-equipped fitness center can easily save residents hundreds per month in gym fees. Co-working spaces eliminate the need for expensive coffee shop workdays or separate office rentals.
The social connection factor has exploded in importance, especially as more people work from home. Amenities that naturally bring people together—like rooftop lounges, game rooms, or community events—help combat the isolation that can come with remote work.
| Community Amenities | In-Unit Amenities |
|---|---|
| Fitness centers, pools, lounges | Smart thermostats, premium appliances |
| Co-working spaces, rooftop decks | In-unit laundry, walk-in closets |
| Pet parks, package lockers | Hardwood floors, granite countertops |
| Benefits: Encourage social interaction, shared costs | Benefits: Personal convenience, privacy |
86% of millennial apartment renters are willing to pay more for smart apartments, compared to 65% of baby boomers. That's not just a preference—it's a completely different approach to how technology fits into daily life.
The role of location & renter profiles
Location shapes everything about amenity preferences. What works in downtown Chicago might flop in suburban markets, and vice versa. Urban renters often deal with space constraints and premium prices for services, so they gravitate toward amenities that maximize efficiency or replace expensive alternatives.
Millennial renters dominate the apartment market, and they want flexibility above all else. They're drawn to amenities that adapt to different needs throughout the day. Gen Z renters bring their own priorities to the table. They want Instagram-worthy spaces that reflect their personal style, but they also crave authentic community experiences.
Survey-backed demand for the best apartment community amenities
The numbers don't lie—residents are willing to pay extra for amenities that truly improve their lives. 31% of renters would pay up to $10 extra per month for easier package retrieval. 57% of residents would agree to a monthly rent increase of at least $20 for smart home features like smart thermostats, keyless entry, and automated lighting.
60% of survey respondents would pay more every month for a reserved parking spot—but only in areas where residents struggle with parking. Nearly 90% of renters say they wouldn't consider moving to an apartment without reliable cell service or good Wi-Fi connectivity.
These statistics reveal a clear pattern: residents will pay extra for amenities that solve daily frustrations or replace services they'd purchase elsewhere.
Tech & Convenience: Smart Features Residents Will Pay Extra For
Smart technology isn't just changing how we live—it's completely changing what residents expect from their apartment communities. The best apartment community amenities now include tech features that make daily life smoother, safer, and more connected than ever before.
45% of renters believe that physical door keys will be obsolete within the decade. Smart locks solve that universal apartment problem of fumbling for keys while carrying groceries, or worse, realizing you're locked out at midnight.
Smart thermostats have become game-changers for both comfort and cost savings. You can cool down your apartment before you even step through the door, while your energy bill stays reasonable because the system automatically adjusts when you're away.
Property management apps have revolutionized how residents interact with their communities. Paying rent, requesting maintenance, booking the rooftop lounge, or messaging management—it all happens from your phone.
High-speed Wi-Fi and reliable cell coverage have shifted from nice-to-have amenities to absolute necessities. With remote work becoming the norm, properties that can't deliver robust connectivity throughout common areas risk losing residents.
Package lockers and smart delivery systems tackle one of apartment living's biggest headaches. No more missed deliveries, no more worrying about package theft, and no more awkward small talk with neighbors about accepting your deliveries.
57% of residents would pay more for smart home features. That's not just interest—that's willingness to invest in convenience and peace of mind.
Smart access and the best apartment community amenities for security
Smart access control perfectly blends convenience with security, making it one of the best apartment community amenities for today's residents. These systems eliminate the age-old apartment dweller's nightmare: standing outside your door with arms full of groceries, frantically searching for keys.
Keyless entry systems let residents use their smartphones, key fobs, or PIN codes to access apartments and common areas. Beyond the convenience factor, these systems provide property managers with instant control over access.
Video intercoms add another layer of both security and convenience. Whether you're home or halfway across the city, you can see who's at the door and decide whether to let them in.
Managing shared spaces digitally
Digital management of shared amenities transforms community living from a potential source of conflict into a seamless experience. Amenity reservation apps solve the fairness problem that plagues many apartment communities. Residents can book time in fitness centers, conference rooms, rooftop spaces, and other shared areas through their phones.
Analytics and usage data help property managers see which amenities residents actually use, when they're most popular, and which spaces might need more attention. Maintenance alerts integrated with smart systems catch problems before they become resident complaints.
Lifestyle & Wellness Perks That Build Community
Today's apartment communities have transformed into lifestyle hubs where residents don't just live—they thrive. The best apartment community amenities now focus on creating spaces where neighbors naturally connect while pursuing their personal wellness goals.
Fitness centers have evolved far beyond rows of dusty exercise bikes. Modern communities offer comprehensive wellness experiences with current equipment, group classes, and spaces designed to feel more like boutique studios than basic apartment gyms.
Outdoor spaces provide that essential connection to nature while creating natural gathering spots. Whether it's a rooftop deck with stunning city views or a community garden where residents can grow their own herbs, these spaces give people reasons to step outside their apartments and interact with neighbors.
The rise of remote work has made co-working spaces absolutely essential. But successful co-working amenities go beyond just desks and Wi-Fi. They need private phone booths for those important calls, printing facilities, comfortable seating for different work styles, and yes—really good coffee nearby.
Pet amenities create some of the strongest community bonds. Dog parks become natural meeting spots where pet parents connect while their furry friends play. EV charging stations reflect how communities are adapting to changing transportation needs while attracting environmentally conscious residents.
Fitness & recreation staples
Creating a fitness amenity that residents actually want to use requires more than just buying some equipment and calling it a day. Modern fitness equipment forms the foundation, but it needs to be current, well-maintained, and thoughtfully arranged.
Group fitness programming adds tremendous value by creating structured opportunities for neighbors to connect. Popular classes include yoga, Pilates, HIIT training, and dance fitness.
Swimming pools remain highly desirable, especially when they include resort-style touches. Yoga and meditation spaces recognize that wellness includes mental health alongside physical fitness.
Wellness & green living
Community gardens offer multiple benefits wrapped into one beautiful amenity. They provide therapeutic gardening activities, supply fresh produce, create attractive green spaces, and naturally bring together residents interested in healthy living and sustainability.
Air quality systems and environmental monitoring demonstrate genuine commitment to resident health. Recycling and composting programs help environmentally conscious residents live according to their values while providing practical services.
Pet-friendly amenities that seal the deal
Pet amenities have evolved far beyond basic "pets allowed" policies. Today's communities recognize that pets are family members, and pet-focused amenities often become the deciding factor for pet parents choosing where to live.
Dog parks and off-leash areas provide essential exercise and socialization for pets while creating natural meeting spaces for their humans. Pet grooming stations and wash areas address practical needs that pet parents would otherwise handle at expensive grooming facilities.
Pet play areas and enrichment features go beyond basic exercise to provide mental stimulation and entertainment. Walking paths and waste stations throughout the property make daily pet care routines more convenient.
Security, Parking & Everyday Ease
The best apartment community amenities often work quietly in the background, handling life's daily hassles so you don't have to think about them. These practical features might not be Instagram-worthy, but they're the ones that make you grateful you chose your community every single day.
Controlled access systems have revolutionized apartment security while making life more convenient. Instead of fumbling with keys in the rain, you can enter your building with a smartphone app or key fob. When residents move out, access disappears instantly—no expensive lock changes required.
Security cameras in lobbies, parking areas, and common spaces provide peace of mind without feeling intrusive. Parking solutions address one of apartment living's biggest daily frustrations. 60% of survey respondents would pay more every month for a reserved parking spot—but only in areas where residents struggle with parking.
EV charging stations prepare communities for the future while serving today's environmentally conscious residents. Laundry facilities have evolved far beyond basic washers and dryers. Modern laundry rooms feature mobile payment systems that send alerts when your clothes are ready.
Valet trash service eliminates one of those small but persistent annoyances of apartment living. Simply place your trash outside your door on collection days, and the service handles the rest.
Package theft has become a serious concern as online shopping has exploded. Scientific research on package security shows that identity theft cases have nearly tripled in the last ten years, making secure package delivery systems essential.
Parking, transit & micro-mobility solutions
Transportation needs have become more complex as people accept different ways of getting around. Reserved parking spaces provide security and convenience that residents value deeply, especially in urban areas. Covered or garage parking adds weather protection and vehicle security.
EV charging infrastructure has shifted from nice-to-have to must-have in many markets. Bike storage facilities protect valuable bicycles while encouraging environmentally friendly transportation. Ride-share pickup zones and designated package delivery areas improve traffic flow while providing convenient, well-lit spaces.
Safety features residents value most
True security comes from layered systems that work together rather than relying on any single feature. 24/7 staff presence creates an immediate sense of security that residents notice and appreciate.
Well-designed lighting throughout the property improves both safety and aesthetics. Emergency communication systems provide quick access to help when needed. Cybersecurity measures protect residents' personal information in our increasingly connected world.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Apartment Community Amenities
What amenities are essential versus luxury?
The line between essential and luxury amenities keeps shifting as renter expectations evolve. Essential amenities cover the basics that make an apartment comfortable and functional: reliable heating and cooling systems, secure building entry, proper lighting, and working plumbing and electrical systems.
Luxury amenities go beyond basic comfort to create lifestyle experiences. Think fitness centers with modern equipment, rooftop lounges with city views, concierge services, and smart home technology. These features help properties command higher rents and keep residents happy enough to renew their leases.
Some amenities have made the jump from luxury to essential over the past decade. High-speed internet was once a premium feature—now it's absolutely required. In-unit laundry and secure package delivery have followed similar paths.
The best apartment community amenities often blur the line between essential and luxury by solving real problems while creating enjoyable experiences.
Are amenities included in rent or charged separately?
Most community amenities come included in your monthly rent, which makes budgeting simpler and allows properties to market that all-inclusive lifestyle experience. However, some amenities do carry separate charges—especially those with limited availability or ongoing operational costs.
Parking typically costs extra, particularly in urban areas where space is premium real estate. Pet amenities usually involve a combination of fees. Premium services like valet parking, concierge assistance, or housekeeping are often optional add-ons with separate pricing.
The key is transparency. Good properties clearly explain what's included in rent versus what costs extra, so you can budget accordingly and avoid surprises.
How do property managers decide which amenities to add?
Property managers juggle multiple factors when deciding which amenities to invest in, starting with what residents actually want and use. Resident surveys and feedback provide the most valuable insights.
Market research reveals what's becoming standard in the local area. Return on investment calculations drive many decisions. Amenities need to pay for themselves through some combination of higher rents, improved occupancy rates, and better resident retention.
Physical space and infrastructure create real limitations. Ongoing operational costs matter just as much as upfront installation expenses. The best apartment community amenities emerge when all these factors align: resident demand meets practical feasibility and financial sense.
Conclusion
The landscape of apartment living has transformed dramatically, and the best apartment community amenities now define what makes a place feel like home. These features have evolved from nice-to-have extras into essential lifestyle components that shape how residents experience their daily lives and connect with their neighbors.
What makes certain amenities truly valuable isn't just their convenience—it's how they solve real problems while bringing people together. Smart technology that eliminates the frustration of lost keys, fitness centers that replace expensive gym memberships, and secure package systems that end delivery anxiety all provide measurable benefits that residents notice every day.
The numbers tell a compelling story about what residents actually want and what they're willing to invest in. When 57% of residents agree to pay more for smart home features and 31% will pay extra for better package solutions, they're making clear statements about which amenities improve their lives in meaningful ways.
At The Ardus Apartments, we've witnessed how thoughtfully chosen amenities create genuine community bonds. Our rooftop lounge becomes the backdrop for sunset gatherings where neighbors become friends, while our on-site coffee shop provides those small daily conveniences that make busy mornings just a little bit easier.
The future promises even more innovation in apartment amenities as technology advances and resident preferences continue evolving. Properties that stay attuned to these changes while focusing on authentic value will continue attracting residents who see their apartment community as more than just a place to sleep.
When you're searching for your next home, consider which amenities align with your lifestyle rather than just looking impressive on paper. Think about the features you'll use regularly, the services that could save you money or time, and the spaces that might help you meet neighbors who share your interests.
More info about Schedule a Tour to find how the right combination of amenities can transform your daily routine while connecting you with a community that shares your values and interests.
The most successful apartment communities understand that amenities aren't just about attracting new residents—they're about creating environments where people genuinely want to stay and build their lives. When done thoughtfully, the best apartment community amenities become the foundation for the kind of community where residents thrive.
