What Is an Apartment Clubhouse? [2025]

An apartment clubhouse is a shared community space inside an apartment complex where residents can relax, host events, or use amenities like gyms, pools, and coworking areas. Access is usually limited to residents and their guests, and often secured by key fobs or gated entry.

Beyond recreation, clubhouses create a central hub for connection, convenience, and lifestyle perks. Whether you’re looking for a place to work remotely, host a birthday party, or join a resident-led yoga class, the clubhouse often serves as the community’s living room.

Apartment Clubhouses

Are Clubhouses a Common Amenity in Apartment Complexes?

Yes. Clubhouses are one of the most common apartment amenities, especially in mid- to large-scale communities. These areas often combine multiple amenities under one roof, such as gyms, lounges, or package lockers.

Because they centralize services, clubhouses add convenience for both residents and property managers. Instead of scattered amenities, everything is clustered in one space, encouraging residents to interact and build community ties.

What Amenities Are Typically Found in Apartment Clubhouses?

Amenities vary by property, but common features include:

• Lounges and community kitchens
• Fitness centers and yoga rooms
• Co-working spaces or business centers
• Pools and outdoor grilling areas
• Game rooms or media theaters
• Package pickup lockers

Luxury properties may add saunas, rooftop decks, fire pits, or bike storage. Family-friendly complexes sometimes include playgrounds or indoor activity rooms.

How Do Renters Use Apartment Clubhouses?

How renters use clubhouses depends largely on whether they are taking advantage of shared amenities or renting the space out for private events.

Community Amenities

• Pools, grilling, and sometimes even fishing or ice skating if there’s a pond or lake in your complex
• Secure package collection
• Basketball, tennis, and other sports with members of your community
• Play dates and meet-ups for children in the complex
• Co-working spaces
• Game nights and movie marathons
• Resident-led clubs and events
• Holiday celebrations and community gatherings

Private Events

• Birthday parties and celebrations
• Wedding parties and vow renewal ceremonies
• Family gatherings and reunions
• Study groups and work sessions
• Club meetings and workshops

How Much Does It Cost to Use an Apartment Clubhouse?

Most community amenities associated with the clubhouse, such as the pool, package services, fitness centers, etc., are generally included as part of your monthly rent and do not require an additional fee. Private rentals of the clubhouse, however, will generally require an hourly rental fee and contract. The option to rent may or may not be available to the general public as well, at the same price or at an increased fee.

In some cases, apartment complexes offer residents the opportunity to volunteer at the clubhouse for a small reduction on rent. Common volunteer tasks include things like putting packages away for residents to pick up from the office, monitoring entry to the clubhouse, or closing the clubhouse or other amenities like the pool after hours.

Pros and Cons of Apartments with Clubhouses

While they offer undeniable advantages, potential drawbacks shouldn't be overlooked. Let's weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if a clubhouse is the right fit for you.

What Are the Pros of Apartment Clubhouses?

• Built-in convenience: Gyms, pools, and coworking spaces at your doorstep.
• Community connection: Meet neighbors through events and casual hangouts.
• Event space: Affordable venue for private parties and gatherings.
• Added value: Access to amenities you might otherwise pay extra for.
• Perks: Some complexes offer rent discounts for residents who volunteer with clubhouse duties.

What Are the Cons of Apartment Clubhouses?

• Higher rent: Units in complexes with clubhouses often cost more or have amenity fees.
• Noise potential: Events or gatherings may disturb nearby residents.
• Rules & restrictions: Guest limits and cleanup policies may feel strict.
• Exclusivity issues: Some residents may feel uncomfortable with group activities.
• Maintenance costs: Upkeep is factored into rent, even if you don’t use the amenities.

Clubhouse Etiquette and Rules

Most properties have rules to ensure fair use of the clubhouse. Common guidelines include:

• Guest limits (often 2–3 per resident)
• Quiet hours for noise control
• Reservations required for private events
• Cleanup responsibilities after use
• Restrictions on alcohol or smoking indoors

Ignoring these rules can result in fines or loss of clubhouse access. Following etiquette keeps the space enjoyable for everyone. If you’re considering a new complex, ask management about clubhouse policies before signing a lease.

Let’s Find Your Dream Apartment

A clubhouse can transform apartment living into a more connected, convenient lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a place to work, host events, or just relax, it adds real value to your community.

Looking for an apartment with the right mix of amenities? Use Apartment List’s personalized quiz to match with homes that fit your budget, location, and preferred features, clubhouse included.

FAQs About Apartment Clubhouses

Can non-residents rent an apartment clubhouse?

Some complexes allow outside rentals, but usually at higher fees than residents. Check with property management.

Are pets allowed in the clubhouse?

Policies vary—most clubhouses don’t allow pets indoors, but outdoor events may be pet-friendly.

Do clubhouses actually increase property value?

Yes. Apartments with modern clubhouses and amenities often attract renters faster, helping landlords reduce vacancy rates.

Is a clubhouse the same as a co-living space?

No. A clubhouse is an amenity in a traditional apartment community. Co-living spaces combine housing with shared amenities, events, and sometimes included utilities.