Finding a place to live in San Antonio usually feels like a choice between "overpriced glass box downtown" or "house in the suburbs with a soul-crushing commute." But then there’s the South Side. Specifically, Rosemont at University Park.
If you’ve been scouring the internet for affordable housing that doesn't feel like a compromise, you’ve probably seen this name pop up. Honestly, the "University Park" bit of the name is a little fancy for what is essentially a solid, budget-conscious community right off I-410. It isn’t the Ritz, but it isn't trying to be.
It’s located at 102 Emerald Ash, San Antonio, TX 78221. You might also see it referred to as "Southgate on Emerald" in some recent listings—don't let that trip you up. It’s the same spot. It’s a massive complex with about 252 units spread across 11 buildings.
What Living at Rosemont at University Park Is Actually Like
People move here for one reason: value. In a world where one-bedroom apartments are starting to touch $1,500 in some parts of the city, Rosemont is a bit of a breath of fresh air for your bank account.
The floor plans are actually pretty huge. We’re talking:
- One-bedroom units around 750 square feet.
- Two-bedroom units (2 bath!) hitting 950 square feet.
- Three-bedroom units at a whopping 1,100 square feet.
If you’ve ever lived in a "modern" studio where you can touch your fridge from your bed, you’ll appreciate the 9-foot ceilings and separate dining areas here. Plus, every unit has a balcony or patio. That sounds like a minor detail until you realize how much you need a spot for a dead plant and a chair to watch the San Antonio sunset.
The "Affordable" Catch
Here is the part most SEO-optimized fluff pieces won't tell you. Rosemont at University Park is an income-restricted community. This means you can't just walk in with a six-figure salary and grab a cheap unit. It’s designed for individuals and families who fall within specific tax credit income guidelines.
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Usually, this means your household income has to be below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). If you’re a full-time student, you might be out of luck unless you meet very specific exceptions (like being a single parent or part of a job training program). It’s basically the government's way of making sure the people who actually need lower rent are the ones getting it.
The Neighborhood Vibe
Is it walkable? Kinda. Not really.
You’re in the 78221 ZIP code. You're going to need a car. The walk score is pretty low (about 37/100), but the location is weirdly convenient if you work anywhere near the South Side or need to get on I-410 or I-37 quickly.
For food, you've got the staples. Whataburger is less than half a mile away (standard Texas law). If you want something better, Ruben’s Homemade Tamales is right down the road on Rigsby. If you haven't been there, you're doing San Antonio wrong.
Perks and Quarks
The complex has the standard "apartment starter pack":
- A shimmering swimming pool (which is great in July).
- A fitness center (small, but functional).
- A computer lab and business center.
- A playground for the kids.
One thing that actually stands out? They do planned social activities. This is a big deal for building a community where you actually know your neighbors' names instead of just recognizing their cars.
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What the Reviews Don't Always Tell You
Let’s be real. Management at large affordable housing complexes is often hit or miss. At Rosemont at University Park, you’ll see reviews ranging from "best place ever" to "why won't they fix my sink?"
Recent ownership changes and partnerships with groups like Opportunity Home San Antonio (formerly SAHA) have brought some much-needed rehabilitation efforts to the property. In 2021, a massive project was launched to rehab this complex along with others like Rosemont at Bethel Place. This meant new roofs, interior upgrades, and better energy efficiency.
So, if you’re looking at older reviews from five years ago, take them with a grain of salt. The "new" version of the property is significantly better maintained than the 2010s version.
The Financial Reality of Renting Here
As of 2026, rent prices in San Antonio are still climbing, but Rosemont stays anchored.
- One-beds typically start around $999.
- Three-beds often stay under $1,300.
Compare that to "market rate" apartments, and you’re saving $300 to $500 a month. That’s car payment money. That's "actually having a savings account" money.
How to Actually Get In
Don't just show up and expect to sign a lease. Because it's a tax credit property, the paperwork is a nightmare. Be prepared to show:
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- At least three months of pay stubs.
- Tax returns.
- Bank statements.
- Proof of every cent of income you have.
They are very strict because they have to be to keep their tax status. If you're organized, the process is fine. If you're "I keep my receipts in a shoebox" type of person, you're going to have a bad time.
Actionable Steps for Future Residents
If you’re serious about moving to Rosemont at University Park, stop scrolling and do these three things:
1. Call, don't email. Affordable housing offices are notoriously busy. Emails get lost in the void. Pick up the phone or, better yet, walk into the leasing office at 102 Emerald Ash.
2. Check your AMI.
Before you get your heart set on a three-bedroom, look up the current San Antonio income limits for 2026. If you make $70k a year as a single person, you won't qualify. Save yourself the trip.
3. Ask about the "waitlist."
Units this size at these prices don't stay empty. Most of the time, there’s a waitlist. Ask how long it is and if there’s a fee to be on it.
Living at Rosemont at University Park isn't about luxury—it's about stability. It's a place where you can have a 1,100-square-foot home without spending 60% of your paycheck on rent. In today's economy, that’s a win.