Aria is a premier luxury apartment community located at 3200 Southdale Circle in Edina, Minnesota. Positioned in the heart of the vibrant Southdale district, this residence offers a sophisticated blend of modern design, expansive amenities, and a strategic location that provides easy access to the entire Twin Cities metropolitan area. With floor plans ranging from efficient studios starting around $1,480 to expansive three-bedroom homes and direct-entry townhomes reaching over $3,500, Aria caters to a diverse demographic of professionals, downsizers, and families seeking an elevated rental experience.

The Southdale Advantage: Location and Neighborhood

Edina has long been recognized as one of the most prestigious suburbs in Minnesota, and Aria occupies a prime position within this community. Specifically located in the Chowen Avenue neighborhood, the property is a centerpiece of the Southdale area’s ongoing transformation into a walkable, urban-suburban hybrid district.

Residents are within walking distance of the Southdale Center, the nation’s first enclosed shopping mall, which has evolved into a multi-use destination featuring high-end retail, fitness centers like Life Time, and a diverse range of dining options. Beyond shopping, the immediate vicinity includes Southdale Square and the Galleria Edina, offering everything from boutique fashion to gourmet groceries.

For those who prioritize outdoor access, the proximity to Centennial Lakes Park is a significant benefit. This 24-acre park features a 10-acre lake, manicured gardens, and walking paths that are ideal for jogging or evening strolls. Strategically, Aria is situated near major thoroughfares including Highway 62 and Interstate 494, placing downtown Minneapolis and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport within a 15-to-20-minute drive, depending on traffic.

A Detailed Look at Floor Plans and Layouts

Aria stands out in the Edina market due to the sheer variety of its residential offerings. The building is designed with a modern aesthetic that favors open-concept living and natural light.

Studios and Alcoves: Modern Minimalism

The entry-level options at Aria, such as the Ashcroft and Braemar floor plans, prove that compact living does not require a sacrifice in luxury.

  • The Braemar (Studio): At approximately 487 square feet, this layout maximizes utility with an integrated living and sleeping area. It is a popular choice for young professionals who spend significant time working in the city but want a high-end "home base."
  • The Ashcroft (Studio): Slightly larger at 524 square feet, this plan often includes a more defined kitchen area and a private balcony, which is a rare find for studio layouts in the region.

One-Bedroom Residences: Practical Sophistication

One-bedroom units represent the core of the Aria community. Plans like the Arden (789 sq ft) and the Halifax (923 sq ft) are designed for those who need a dedicated workspace or more room for entertaining.

  • The Arden: Features a balanced distribution of space between the bedroom and the living area, complemented by a walk-in closet.
  • The Halifax: This is one of the largest one-bedroom configurations, offering nearly 1,000 square feet of space. It often includes an oversized balcony and enough room for a full dining table, making it feel more like a traditional home than an apartment.

Multi-Bedroom Units and Townhomes: Space Reimagined

For those requiring more space, the two- and three-bedroom units, as well as the unique townhome options, provide a level of square footage comparable to single-family homes in the area.

  • Two-Bedroom Plans (e.g., Zenith, Beard, York): Ranging from 1,122 to 1,307 square feet, these units typically feature two full bathrooms, with the master suite offering a double vanity and a large walk-in shower.
  • Direct-Entry Townhomes: Models like the Rolling Green and Nob Hill offer a distinct living experience. These two-story residences provide private entrances, making them ideal for residents who want the amenities of an apartment building with the privacy of a townhome. These units often exceed 1,800 square feet and include 2.5 bathrooms.

Interior Finishes and Design Philosophy

The aesthetic of Aria is characterized by a "transitional" luxury style—blending contemporary clean lines with warm, classic textures. Based on our analysis of the residential finishes, several key features elevate these units above standard luxury rentals:

  1. Gourmet Kitchens: Unlike many newer developments that utilize electric coil or smooth-top ranges, Aria provides stainless steel gas ranges. This is a critical detail for home cooks who prefer the precision of gas. The kitchens also feature highly crafted cabinetry (available in both dark brown and modern white finishes) and solid granite countertops.
  2. Architectural Volume: Standard ceilings are 9 feet, with many units on the top floors or specific layouts reaching 10 feet. This extra height, combined with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, creates a sense of openness and luxury.
  3. Practical Luxury: Every home includes a full-sized, stacking washer and dryer. Bedrooms are equipped with black-out blinds, an essential feature for light-sensitive sleepers. Furthermore, the building uses extensive sound insulation and solid-core doors to ensure a quiet living environment, addressing one of the most common complaints in multi-family housing.
  4. Modern Connectivity: Fiber optic high-speed internet is pre-installed in units, supporting the needs of remote workers and high-bandwidth households.

Signature Amenities and Building Features

The amenity package at Aria is designed to rival a high-end resort, focusing on three core pillars: relaxation, wellness, and productivity.

The Rooftop Oasis

The crowning jewel of the property is the expansive rooftop terrace. It features a heated swimming pool and an all-season spa, allowing for year-round outdoor enjoyment. The terrace is expertly landscaped and includes:

  • Grilling Stations: Multiple stations equipped with professional-grade grills and shaded pergolas.
  • Social Spaces: Fire pits and lounge seating areas that provide a perfect backdrop for evening gatherings.
  • Recreation: A bocce ball court and a putting green, adding a playful element to the sophisticated environment.

Wellness and Fitness Capabilities

The fitness center at Aria is more than just a room with a few treadmills. It is a fully equipped gym with a range of weight and cardio machines that rival commercial fitness clubs. Additionally, there is a separate group fitness studio designed for yoga or floor exercises. For post-workout recovery, residents have access to an all-season sauna.

Community and Remote Work Infrastructure

Aria has adapted to the modern work-from-home trend by providing robust co-working spaces. These areas offer a professional environment outside the individual apartment units. For social gatherings, the entertainment suite is a standout feature, boasting a private dining area, a living room, and a chef-quality kitchen that can be reserved for private events.

The building is also exceptionally pet-friendly. Beyond just allowing cats and dogs, Aria provides a dedicated pet spa for grooming and a private pet play area, ensuring that four-legged residents are as comfortable as their owners.

Resident Feedback and Management Performance

When evaluating a luxury property, the quality of management is as important as the physical building. Aria is professionally managed by the Doran Group, a prominent name in Twin Cities real estate.

Overall, the community holds a strong reputation, often highlighted for its architectural beauty and the friendliness of its on-site staff. Long-term residents frequently commend the leasing and concierge team for their attentiveness and for fostering a sense of community through organized resident events. The security measures and maintenance of the common areas, including the gym and pool, generally receive high marks for cleanliness and functionality.

However, as with any large community, there are nuances to consider. Some residents have pointed out that the luxury price tag comes with high expectations for service. There have been isolated reports regarding the strictness of lease-breaking policies and the consistency of communication from the upper management. Prospective renters are encouraged to review the lease terms carefully, particularly regarding pet fees and administrative costs, to ensure full transparency before signing.

Pricing, Fees, and Practical Leasing Information

Understanding the total cost of occupancy is vital for any prospective renter at Aria.

Rent Estimates

  • Studios/Alcoves: $1,480 – $1,600+
  • One-Bedrooms: $1,799 – $2,100+
  • Two-Bedrooms: $2,299 – $2,700+
  • Three-Bedrooms/Townhomes: $3,300 – $3,500+

Note: Pricing is subject to market fluctuations and specific unit availability.

Standard Fees and Deposits

When applying for an apartment at Aria, applicants should expect the following standard costs:

  • Application Fee: Approximately $75 per applicant.
  • Administrative Fee: A one-time fee of roughly $200 due at move-in.
  • Security Deposit: Typically ranges based on credit history but often starts at a standard flat rate.
  • Parking: Reserved indoor parking is available. In a climate like Minnesota, heated indoor parking is highly recommended and usually carries an additional monthly fee.
  • Pet Policy: Aria welcomes both cats and dogs. Expect a one-time pet fee (around $350) and a monthly pet rent per animal.

Current Incentives

The management team frequently offers "Move-in Specials." These often include "one month free" on select 12-month leases or gift card incentives for specific floor plans. It is always advisable to ask the leasing office about current promotions during your tour.

Conclusion: Is Aria Edina the Right Move?

Aria Apartments represents the pinnacle of Edina’s modern rental market. It is an ideal choice for individuals who value a walkable lifestyle, high-end interior finishes, and a robust suite of amenities. While the pricing is at the higher end of the regional spectrum, the value proposition lies in the "lifestyle" aspect—the ability to swim on a rooftop in July, walk to a world-class steakhouse in five minutes, and return to a quiet, well-insulated home.

If you are looking for a community that feels more like a boutique hotel than a standard apartment block, Aria should be at the top of your list. However, for those on a stricter budget or those who do not require extensive amenities, other properties further from the Southdale core might offer better purely financial value.

Summary of Key Features

  • Location: 3200 Southdale Circle, Edina, MN. Highly walkable to Southdale Center and Galleria.
  • Unit Types: Diverse range including studios, 1-3 bedroom apartments, and multi-story townhomes.
  • Interior Highlights: Gas ranges, granite countertops, 9-10ft ceilings, and fiber optic internet.
  • Primary Amenities: Rooftop pool/spa, professional fitness center, pet spa, and co-working spaces.
  • Management: Award-winning design and on-site professional management by Doran Group.
  • Price Point: Premium/Luxury tier for the Edina market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the pet policy at Aria Edina? Aria is a pet-friendly community that allows both cats and dogs. There are some breed restrictions, and a one-time pet fee and monthly pet rent apply. The property also features a pet spa and a dedicated play area.

Does Aria offer short-term leases? Typically, Aria focuses on standard 12-month to 13-month lease terms. Occasionally, different lease lengths may be available depending on current occupancy rates, but short-term or month-to-month leases are generally not the standard offering.

Is parking included in the rent? Parking is generally not included in the base rent. Aria offers reserved indoor heated parking stalls, which are highly coveted during Minnesota winters. These stalls are available for an additional monthly fee.

Are there any utilities included? In most cases, residents are responsible for electricity, water, gas, and internet. Because the units feature gas ranges and individual climate control, utilities are metered based on individual usage.

How do I schedule a tour? You can contact the leasing office via their official website or by phone. They offer both in-person tours and virtual tours for those relocating from out of state.

What makes Aria different from other luxury apartments in Edina? The combination of gas ranges, superior sound insulation (solid-core doors), and the unique direct-entry townhomes sets Aria apart. Its location right on the Southdale Circle also offers a higher level of immediate walkability compared to properties located further north or west in Edina.