I am always fascinated by places that combine natural beauty with a peaceful atmosphere, and Lakes of Eldorado is one of those destinations that instantly captures my attention. Whether I am searching for a relaxing weekend escape, scenic lake views, outdoor adventures, or a welcoming community, this hidden gem offers something special for every visitor.
As I explore everything the area has to offer, I discover beautiful landscapes, recreational activities, and a calm environment that makes every moment memorable. In this guide, I’ll share what makes Lakes of Eldorado worth visiting, what you can expect, and why it continues to attract nature lovers, families, and travelers looking for an unforgettable lakeside experience.
Lakes of Eldorado at a Glance
Lakes of Eldorado is an apartment community located at 1400 Eldorado Parkway, McKinney, TX 75069. The property has approximately 220 apartments in 15 buildings, according to current property data.
The community offers:
- One-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments
- One- and two-bathroom layouts
- Swimming pool
- Fitness center
- Clubhouse
- Playground
- Business center
- Laundry facilities
- Detached garages
- Outdoor spaces
- Pet-friendly housing
- Bark park
- On-site management
- On-site maintenance
- Courtesy patrol
Apartment features include air conditioning, ceiling fans, dishwashers, garbage disposals, microwaves, walk-in closets, patios or balconies, and washer/dryer connections.
The community also identifies itself as income restricted, which makes qualification an especially important part of the rental process.
Where Are the Lakes of Eldorado?
Lakes of Eldorado is located on Eldorado Parkway in McKinney, Texas.
The location provides access to everyday shopping, dining, and other services. The property’s neighborhood information mentions nearby businesses such as Trader Joe’s, Albertsons, Boston’s, and Spoons Café. It also lists Malvern Elementary School, Faubion Middle School, and McKinney High School among nearby schools.
This can be useful for renters who want groceries, restaurants, and other daily necessities within the surrounding area.
Families should independently verify current school attendance boundaries before signing a lease because school assignments can change.
Lakes of Eldorado Apartments and Floor Plans
One of the most important questions for renters is whether the available apartment matches their household size and budget.
The current property listings show several floor plans across one-, two-, and three-bedroom categories. Advertised prices and availability can change frequently.
One-Bedroom Apartments
Lakes of Eldorado currently lists several one-bedroom layouts:
- Vista
- Silver
- Eden
The listed sizes are approximately 576 to 586 square feet.
Current advertised starting pricing is around $1,073 per month, although specific units can have different prices depending on availability and other factors.
A one-bedroom apartment may work well for an individual or couple who prefers a smaller living space and wants to keep housing costs relatively controlled.
Before selecting a unit, consider more than square footage. Closet space, kitchen arrangement, window placement, storage, and the location of the apartment within the community can all affect how comfortable the space feels.
Two-Bedroom Apartments
Two-bedroom options include layouts such as:
- Victoria
- Watergate
- Emerald
The Victoria and Watergate layouts are approximately 749 to 750 square feet and have one bathroom.
The Emerald provides approximately 850 square feet with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Current advertised pricing for Victoria and Watergate starts around $1,279, while Emerald pricing should be confirmed directly because the property’s listing may show it as available by inquiry.
The two-bedroom category is useful for households that need an additional bedroom for:
- A child
- A roommate
- A home office
- Guests
- Storage
- Hobbies
Two-Bedroom, Two-Bath Apartments
The Emerald floor plan deserves special attention because it offers two bathrooms.
For some households, having an additional bathroom can be more valuable than having slightly more living space.
This type of layout may be particularly useful when:
- Two adults share the apartment
- Family members have different schedules
- Guests regularly visit
- A household wants additional bathroom privacy
Compare the total monthly cost against the one-bathroom two-bedroom layouts before making a decision.
Three-Bedroom Apartments
The Valencia is the current three-bedroom floor plan listed for Lakes of Eldorado.
It offers approximately 959 square feet and two bathrooms, with advertised pricing around $1,469 per month at the time of the current listing.
A three-bedroom apartment can provide more flexibility for families or households that need separate bedrooms.
However, because the apartment is under 1,000 square feet, renters should look carefully at the actual layout and storage space. A three-bedroom designation does not automatically mean that every room will be large.
Lakes of Eldorado Floor Plan Comparison
Current advertised information can be summarized as follows:
| Floor Plan | Bedrooms | Bathrooms | Approx. Size | Advertised Starting Price |
| Vista | 1 | 1 | 576 sq. ft. | $1,073 |
| Silver | 1 | 1 | 577 sq. ft. | $1,073 |
| Eden | 1 | 1 | 586 sq. ft. | $1,163+ |
| Victoria | 2 | 1 | 749 sq. ft. | $1,279 |
| Watergate | 2 | 1 | 750 sq. ft. | $1,279 |
| Emerald | 2 | 2 | 850 sq. ft. | Contact property |
| Valencia | 3 | 2 | 959 sq. ft. | $1,469 |
Prices and availability are subject to change, so renters should verify the exact apartment and lease terms before applying.
Which Lakes of Eldorado Floor Plan Should You Choose?
The best floor plan depends on how you intend to use the apartment.
Choose a One-Bedroom If
A one-bedroom may be appropriate if you:
- Live alone
- Are part of a couple
- Prefer a compact apartment
- Want fewer rooms to maintain
- Have limited furniture
Choose a Two-Bedroom If
A two-bedroom may make more sense if you need:
- A child’s bedroom
- A guest room
- A home office
- A roommate arrangement
- Additional storage
Choose the Two-Bedroom, Two-Bath Layout If
The second bathroom is important to your household.
The Emerald layout can be especially worth comparing against the one-bathroom two-bedroom options.
Choose a Three-Bedroom If
You need three separate bedrooms and want the largest bedroom count offered by the community.
Families should inspect the exact layout to make sure the room sizes and storage meet their needs.
Lakes of Eldorado Rent and Deposits
Current listings show base rents beginning around $1,073 for one-bedroom apartments, approximately $1,279 for certain two-bedroom layouts, and around $1,469 for the listed three-bedroom Valencia layout.
However, advertised base rent should not automatically be treated as the total monthly housing cost.
Depending on the apartment and household, other expenses can include:
- Electricity
- Pet charges
- Application fees
- Security deposit
- Optional parking or garage costs
- Internet
- Cable
- Other property charges
Third-party listings also warn that advertised base rent may exclude recurring or variable costs.
Security Deposit
Current property information lists security deposits in the range of approximately $200 to $300, depending on the apartment and applicable terms.
Because charges can vary, ask for a complete written move-in cost before paying an application or holding fee.
Are Lakes of Eldorado Income Restricted?
Yes. Lakes of Eldorado is identified as an income-restricted community.
This is one of the most important details for prospective renters.
Income-restricted housing does not mean that anyone can rent an apartment simply because they can afford the advertised price.
Eligibility can depend on factors such as:
- Household income
- Household size
- Applicable program requirements
- Documentation
- Current qualification limits
The property should be contacted directly to determine whether your household qualifies.
Who Should Check Eligibility Before Applying?
You should verify eligibility before applying if your household has:
- Multiple income sources
- Self-employment income
- Variable income
- Social Security income
- Assistance benefits
- A housing voucher
- Multiple adult household members
Having the correct documentation ready can make the process easier.
Does Lakes of Eldorado Accept Section 8?
The property’s official information states that it accepts Section 8 vouchers.
Because voucher procedures and eligibility can depend on the household and applicable housing program, prospective residents should confirm the current process with the leasing office before assuming a voucher will cover a specific apartment.
If you use a voucher, ask:
- Is the specific unit eligible?
- What portion of rent is covered?
- What tenant portion would remain?
- Are there additional fees?
- What documents are required?
- How does the inspection process work?
- What is the expected move-in timeline?
Getting these answers before applying can prevent delays.
Lakes of Eldorado Application Requirements
The application process requires documentation.
Current property information says applicants should bring:
- Identification
- Proof of income
- Four recent check stubs
The listed application fee is approximately $17 for the first applicant and $12 for each additional applicant.
These requirements can change, so confirm the current requirements with the leasing office.
What to Prepare Before Applying
It is useful to have:
- Government-issued identification
- Recent income documentation
- Recent pay stubs
- Information for every adult applicant
- Pet information if applicable
- Voucher documentation if applicable
- Money available for required application or move-in costs
Being prepared can make the application process more straightforward.
Lakes of Eldorado Utilities and Monthly Costs
Understanding utilities is essential when comparing apartments.
The property’s own FAQ states that water is included, while electricity is the resident’s responsibility.
Other services may also be the resident’s responsibility.
Before signing a lease, ask for a complete list of:
- Included utilities
- Resident-paid utilities
- Utility billing method
- Internet options
- Cable options
- Recurring community charges
- Optional services
Your actual monthly housing cost should be calculated using more than the advertised rent.
For example:
Base rent + electricity + required fees + pet costs + optional services = realistic monthly housing budget
Lakes of Eldorado Pet Policy
Lakes of Eldorado is a pet-friendly community.
The current published policy allows up to two pets per apartment, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds per pet. Breed restrictions may apply.
Current listed pet charges include a security pet deposit and monthly pet rent, although the exact amount can depend on the pet and current policy.
Before moving in with a pet, confirm:
- Maximum number of pets
- Weight limits
- Breed restrictions
- Pet deposit
- Monthly pet rent
- Required documentation
- Rules for common areas
- Bark park rules
The community also advertises a bark park.
Lakes of Eldorado Amenities
Amenities are an important part of the community because they can affect both convenience and lifestyle.
Swimming Pool
The community offers a swimming pool for resident recreation.
Before moving in, ask about:
- Pool hours
- Seasonal operation
- Guest policies
- Maintenance closures
- Rules for children
Fitness Center
The on-site fitness center can provide a convenient place for residents to exercise without needing to travel to an outside gym.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse provides shared community space and may be useful for residents who want a place to gather outside their apartment.
Playground
The property offers a playground, which can be useful for households with children.
Business Center
The business center can be useful for residents who need occasional workspace or access to community business facilities.
Laundry Facilities
Community laundry facilities are available, while apartment listings also advertise full-size washer/dryer connections in the homes. Renters should confirm the exact laundry setup for their chosen unit.
Garages and Parking
The community offers detached garages.
Current property information also indicates that parking is available, while specific parking arrangements and fees should be confirmed with management.
What Are the Apartments Like?
Apartment features listed by the property include:
- Air conditioning
- Ceiling fans
- Dishwasher
- Garbage disposal
- Microwave
- Efficient appliances
- Walk-in closets
- Hardwood floors
- Patio or balcony
- Outdoor storage
- Full-size washer/dryer connections
- Cable-ready features
Not every feature should be assumed to be identical in every apartment.
When touring, ask the leasing team to identify which features are included in the exact unit you are considering.
Are Lakes of Eldorado Good for Families?
Lakes of Eldorado can be worth considering for families who meet the property’s eligibility requirements and need one-, two-, or three-bedroom housing.
Family-oriented features include:
- Three-bedroom apartments
- Two-bedroom apartments
- Playground
- Swimming pool
- Nearby schools
- Nearby shopping
- Pet-friendly policies
The three-bedroom Valencia layout provides two bathrooms, which may be useful for larger households.
Families should still consider apartment size carefully.
A household may prefer a larger two-bedroom apartment over a smaller three-bedroom apartment depending on how much living space is needed.
Lakes of Eldorado for Pet Owners
Pet owners have several factors to consider beyond whether pets are allowed.
The community’s current policy allows up to two pets with a stated maximum weight of 50 pounds per pet.
The availability of a bark park can add convenience for residents with dogs.
However, renters should calculate the full pet-related cost before signing the lease.
For example:
Pet deposit + monthly pet rent + normal pet expenses = total pet housing cost
That can make a noticeable difference over a full lease term.
Lakes of Eldorado Neighborhood
The surrounding location is one of the practical reasons renters may consider the property.
The official community website highlights nearby:
- Grocery stores
- Restaurants
- Schools
- Shopping
- Everyday services
Trader Joe’s and Albertsons are among the nearby grocery options mentioned by the property, while Boston’s and Spoons Café are listed among nearby restaurants.
The property’s listed nearby schools include Malvern Elementary, Faubion Middle School, and McKinney High School.
For anyone commuting to work, however, it is better to test the route at the actual time you expect to travel rather than relying only on a map estimate.
What Do Residents Say About the Lakes of Eldorado?
Online reviews provide useful clues, but they should be treated as individual experiences rather than a guarantee of what every resident will experience.
RentCafe currently shows a 3.5/5 rating from 12 reviews, with category ratings covering areas such as location, parking, amenities, maintenance, staff, value, and noise.
Recent reviews include positive comments about staff and location, while other reviews raise concerns about pricing or amenity access.
This suggests that prospective renters should not rely on the overall rating alone.
Instead, look for patterns involving the things that matter most to you:
- Maintenance response
- Staff communication
- Parking
- Noise
- Cleanliness
- Amenities
- Rent changes
- Overall value
The best way to evaluate the community is to combine online reviews with an in-person tour.
Are Lakes of Eldorado Good for Remote Workers?
Remote workers should look beyond the apartment’s advertised features.
Potentially useful features include:
- Business center
- Patio or balcony
- Walk-in closets
- Air conditioning
- Washer/dryer connections
But your actual apartment should be evaluated for:
- Internet availability
- Cell signal
- Noise
- Natural light
- Available outlets
- Space for a desk
- Temperature control
If you work from home every day, ask whether the apartment can comfortably accommodate a dedicated workspace.
Pros of Lakes of Eldorado
Income-Restricted Housing
The community is identified as income restricted, which may make it relevant to households searching specifically for qualifying affordable housing.
Multiple Bedroom Options
One-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments provide choices for different household sizes.
Useful Community Amenities
The pool, fitness center, clubhouse, playground, business center, and outdoor areas provide several on-site conveniences.
Pet Friendly
The community allows qualifying residents to have up to two pets within the stated restrictions.
Convenient McKinney Location
Shopping, restaurants, and schools are located in the surrounding area.
On-Site Management and Maintenance
On-site services can make it easier to report and address property-related issues.
Things to Consider Before Renting
Income Qualification
Not every household will automatically qualify.
Apartment Size
Some floor plans are relatively compact, so inspect the actual layout.
Electricity Costs
Residents are responsible for electricity, meaning the advertised rent is not necessarily your complete monthly housing expense.
Pet Costs
Pet deposits and monthly pet rent can add to the cost.
Parking
Confirm parking rules, permits, and garage pricing before moving in.
Availability
A floor plan shown online today may not be available when you are ready to move.
Reviews
Online reviews are mixed, so an in-person tour is valuable.
What to Check During Your Apartment Tour
A tour should involve more than looking at the kitchen and living room.
Check:
- Water pressure
- Air conditioning
- Windows
- Doors and locks
- Appliances
- Cabinet condition
- Flooring
- Bathroom fixtures
- Closet space
- Storage
- Internet signal
- Cell reception
- Noise levels
- Parking availability
- Exterior lighting
- Laundry facilities
- Pool area
- Playground
- Fitness center
If possible, visit at a time similar to when you normally expect to be home.
This can help you get a better impression of traffic, parking, and noise.
Questions to Ask Before Signing a Lease
Before signing, ask the leasing office:
- What is the exact rent for my apartment?
- What is the total security deposit?
- Which utilities are included?
- What utilities will I pay separately?
- Are there mandatory monthly fees?
- Are there current move-in specials?
- What are the pet fees?
- Are there breed restrictions?
- How many vehicles are allowed?
- Is parking assigned?
- Are detached garages available?
- What is the lease term?
- What happens when the lease expires?
- What are the renewal terms?
- What documents are required?
- What are the income limits?
- Is my voucher accepted for this unit?
- What maintenance services are provided?
- What are the pool and amenity rules?
- When exactly can I move in?
Getting these answers in writing can make the rental process easier and reduce misunderstandings.
Who Should Consider Lakes of Eldorado?
Lakes of Eldorado may be worth considering if you are looking for:
- Income-restricted housing
- One-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments
- Pet-friendly housing
- An apartment with a pool
- On-site fitness facilities
- A playground
- Nearby shopping and restaurants
- A McKinney location
- A community with several shared amenities
It may be less suitable for someone who specifically wants a very large apartment, luxury-style finishes, or a completely fee-free rental arrangement.
How to Compare Lakes of Eldorado With Other McKinney Apartments
Do not compare apartments based only on monthly rent.
Instead, compare:
| Category | What to Look At |
| Rent | Base monthly rent |
| Size | Square footage |
| Bedrooms | Number of rooms |
| Bathrooms | One or two |
| Utilities | Included vs. resident paid |
| Deposit | Upfront cost |
| Pets | Fees and restrictions |
| Parking | Availability and cost |
| Amenities | Pool, gym, playground, etc. |
| Eligibility | Income requirements |
| Location | Work, schools, shopping |
| Reviews | Common resident experiences |
| Lease | Length and renewal terms |
A slightly higher advertised rent can sometimes represent better overall value if the apartment provides more space or lower additional costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is rent at Lakes of Eldorado?
Current advertised base rents start at approximately $1,073 for one-bedroom apartments, $1,279 for certain two-bedroom layouts, and $1,469 for the listed three-bedroom floor plan. Prices and availability can change.
Is Lakes of Eldorado income restricted?
Yes. The property is identified as an income-restricted apartment community. Prospective residents should verify current eligibility requirements with management.
Do Lakes of Eldorado accept Section 8?
The property’s information states that Section 8 vouchers are accepted. Voucher holders should confirm the current process and whether their specific unit qualifies before applying.
How many bedrooms are available at Lakes of Eldorado?
The property currently offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans.
What is the largest Lakes of Eldorado apartment?
The listed Valencia three-bedroom floor plan is approximately 959 square feet and includes two bathrooms.
Are Lakes of Eldorado pet friendly?
Yes. The current policy permits up to two pets per apartment, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds per pet. Breed restrictions may apply.
What utilities are included at Lakes of Eldorado?
The property’s FAQ states that water is included and electricity is the resident’s responsibility. Confirm all current utility arrangements before signing a lease.
How much is the security deposit?
Current published information lists deposits generally ranging from $200 to $300, depending on the apartment and applicable terms.
What documents are needed to apply?
Current property information says applicants should bring identification, proof of income, and four recent check stubs. Application fees are also listed for applicants.
Where are the lakes of Eldorado located?
Lakes of Eldorado is located at 1400 Eldorado Parkway, McKinney, Texas 75069.
Does the Lakes of Eldorado have a swimming pool?
Yes. A swimming pool is one of the community amenities.
Does Lakes of Eldorado have a fitness center?
Yes. The property lists an on-site fitness center.
Is parking available at Lakes of Eldorado?
Yes. Parking is available, and detached garages are also offered. Renters should confirm current parking rules and any applicable charges.
Are there three-bedroom apartments at Lakes of Eldorado?
Yes. The Valencia floor plan is a three-bedroom, two-bath apartment of approximately 959 square feet.
Are the Lakes of Eldorado a good place to live?
It can be a suitable option for renters who meet the income requirements and want a McKinney apartment with multiple floor-plan choices, community amenities, pet-friendly policies, and access to nearby shopping and restaurants. A personal tour is the best way to judge whether a specific unit meets your needs.
Final Thoughts
Lakes of Eldorado is an apartment community at 1400 Eldorado Parkway in McKinney, Texas, offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans along with amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, clubhouse, playground, business center, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly features.
Current advertised base rents begin around $1,073 for one-bedroom apartments, with two-bedroom options starting around $1,279 and the listed three-bedroom option around $1,469. These prices are subject to change based on availability and apartment-specific terms.
For many prospective residents, however, the most important consideration is not simply rent. Lakes of Eldorado is income restricted, so applicants should determine whether they meet the applicable requirements before applying.
The smartest approach is to compare the exact floor plan, total monthly costs, utilities, pet expenses, parking, eligibility requirements, and community amenities.
If those factors fit your household, Lakes of Eldorado can be a practical apartment option to investigate in McKinney