Choosing your next apartment is more than picking a floor plan and signing a lease — it’s about choosing a home that fits your lifestyle. One of the biggest factors influencing your decision are the amenities that the community offers. But with so many modern features available — from rooftop lounges to dog parks — how do you know which amenities are actually important to you?

Here’s a breakdown to help you prioritize the amenities that matter most based on your lifestyle.

Social & Community Spaces
Clubhouses, rooftop lounges, and game rooms: Perfect for hosting friends or meeting neighbors.
Outdoor grills and fire pits: Great for weekend cookouts or summer evenings.
Community events: From wine tastings to movie nights, some properties offer built-in social calendars.

Ask yourself: Do I enjoy meeting new people and an overall sense of community where I live?

Health & Wellness
On-site fitness center: Convenient and cost-effective, especially if you want to save on a gym membership. Bonus tip – think about what hours the fitness center is open and whether that fits into your schedule.
Bike racks: Love to ride a bike but don’t want to have to store it in your apartment home? Check if your community offers bike racks to store your bike. 
Pickleball courts: It’s the fastest-growing sport in America, and if you’re a Pickleball enthusiast, having courts at home allows you to play more frequently!

Ask yourself: Will I actually use these amenities regularly, or are they just a nice-to-have?

Convenience & Everyday Life
In-unit washer and dryer: Often at the top of most renters’ wish lists, with good reason.
Package lockers or room: Especially important if you order online often to ensure your packages are delivered safely.
Covered parking or garages: Useful to protect your vehicle from harsh weather and can act as extra storage space.
Business Center or Co-Working Space: Save time and money if you regularly need quiet workspaces or conference rooms.
Starbucks Coffee Bar: Are you an avid coffee drinker? You could save money each day by going to your complimentary Starbucks Coffee Bar.

Ask yourself: Which conveniences will make daily life smoother and save me time?

Pet-Friendly Features
Dog parks: These allow your dog to have room to run and socialize with your neighbor’s pets, making their life more fulfilled.
Treats in the clubhouse:A small but thoughtful touch that shows pets are truly welcome — and appreciated!
Pet-friendly events: Fun, community-building activities that let pets and their owners socialize and enjoy the space together.

Ask yourself: Is this truly a pet-welcoming community, or just pet-permitting?

Final Tips for Choosing Amenities That Matter

• Make a list of your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
• Tour in person to see if the amenities are well-maintained and actually used by residents.
• Consider your lifestyle today and 1–2 years from now — don’t pay for features you won’t use.

Your Apartment, Your Lifestyle
Apartment amenities should make your life better. Focus on the features that genuinely enhance your routines, bring you joy, or save you time. By knowing what matters most to you, you’ll find a community that doesn’t just look great on paper — it feels like home.