Renting an Apartment with Amenities: Is It Worth Paying Extra for a Pool and Gym?

When searching for an apartment, many renters are drawn to buildings that offer luxurious amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, lounges, and coworking spaces. But are these perks worth the higher rent? Whether you're considering an upscale high-rise in Miami, FL, a suburban complex in Dallas, TX, or a modern apartment in Seattle, WA, here’s what you need to consider before paying extra for amenities.

1. The True Cost of Amenities

Apartments with amenities typically come with a higher price tag. The cost is often included in your rent or charged as an additional monthly fee. For example:

• A complex in Los Angeles, CA, may charge an extra $50–$100 per month for access to a rooftop pool and gym.
• In New York City, luxury buildings with high-end amenities can cost hundreds of dollars more per month compared to those without.
• Some apartments in Austin, TX, offer free amenities, but the rent is naturally higher to offset the cost.

Before committing, compare your total housing costs with similar properties that lack these features.

2. Will You Actually Use the Amenities?

Think realistically about how often you’ll take advantage of the amenities:

• If you already have a gym membership and prefer working out elsewhere, paying for an on-site gym may be unnecessary.
• A swimming pool is great in warm climates like Phoenix, AZ, but in places with shorter summers, like Boston, MA, it might not be worth the added cost.
• If you work remotely, a business center or coworking space in the building could be a valuable perk, especially in cities like San Francisco, CA, where coworking memberships can be pricey.

3. Convenience vs. Cost

One of the biggest advantages of on-site amenities is convenience. Having a fitness center just steps from your door can save time and money, and a pool can be a relaxing escape after a long day. However, weigh this against alternative options:

• A public gym membership may cost $30–$60 per month, which might be cheaper than the rent increase for an on-site facility.
• Community pools in cities like Orlando, FL, may provide free or low-cost access, making a private apartment pool less necessary.

4. Impact on Property Value and Rent Stability

Buildings with high-end amenities tend to attract a more competitive rental market. This means:

• Higher rent increases over time, as demand stays strong.
• Better-maintained buildings, since property owners invest in keeping amenities up to date.
• Stricter lease terms, as landlords want to ensure tenants uphold community standards.

In Chicago, IL, for instance, apartments in amenity-rich buildings may have more stable pricing than older complexes without extras.

5. Alternatives to Consider

If you like the idea of amenities but don’t want to pay premium prices, consider:

• Older buildings with fewer but well-maintained amenities – A mid-tier apartment in Denver, CO, may have a smaller gym and no pool but still offer quality living at a lower cost.
• Local memberships – If you rarely use a pool but enjoy occasional access, see if a local recreation center is a more cost-effective option.
• Shared coworking spaces – Instead of paying for a luxury apartment with a business center, joining a coworking space might offer a better work environment.

Conclusion

Paying extra for amenities depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you plan to use the gym regularly, love lounging by the pool, or benefit from on-site conveniences, the added cost may be worth it. However, if these features will go unused, you might be better off choosing a more affordable apartment and seeking alternatives in your city. Before signing a lease, weigh the pros and cons carefully—because in some cases, luxury might just be an unnecessary expense.