Montmartre Retirement Apartments

Pros

• Residents describe Montmartre as quiet and well-maintained.
• They consider it one of the nicest complexes in Columbia, with resort-like landscaping, a crystal-clear pool, and open green space.
• The office manager and maintenance team are responsive and address issues promptly.
• The location is excellent, close to shopping, parks, and outdoor recreation, with easy walking or biking access to nearby amenities.
• Units offer spacious layouts, including large bedrooms and living spaces, with in-unit laundry and pet-friendly policies.
• Security measures such as cameras and no-trespassing signs contribute to residents' sense of safety.
• Rent is reasonable, utilities are low, and owners are amenable to gardening and keeping pets.

Cons

• One reviewer notes thefts from the north-side carport due to spill-over from Ash Street, indicating a security issue.
• The same reviewer describes office manager Nikki and landlord Tom as the rudest people they have ever met, calling them lazy, intrusive, and untruthful.
• They accuse management of ageism toward tenants under 60.
• They claim staff will barge into tenants' residences at will and never do what is asked.
• They state that parking is tight and that neighbors are very close, which is cited as a downside.

Review

Montmartre Apartments in Columbia presents itself as a clean, modern, and meticulously kept community that lives up to its own boast about quiet living. Several residents emphasize how quiet and well-maintained the grounds feel, noting that the property is noticeably free of the odors and clutter that can accompany other complexes nearby. The overall impression is that Montmartre aims for a calm, orderly environment where residents can relax and unwind after busy days.

Inside the homes, there is a strong sense of space and practicality. One reviewer highlights a three-bedroom, two-bath unit that clocks in at about 1,100 square feet, offering ample room for living, storage, and even yoga or study space. The kitchen features plenty of cabinet space and a pantry, with some residents choosing in-unit laundry for convenience or paying a little extra for a washer-dryer setup and a carport. The apartments also accommodate pets - cats are allowed - adding to the appeal for families and animal lovers alike. The combination of large living areas, abundant storage, and the option for an upgraded laundry setup contributes to an impression of comfortable, livable spaces rather than compact, cramped layouts.

The grounds and exterior are repeatedly described as resort-like, driven by well-manicured landscaping, a crystal-clear pool, and generous green space. The architecture and curb appeal are regarded as attractive, with thoughtful exterior design that enhances the overall feel of the community. Residents speak of a quiet, peaceful atmosphere that makes Montmartre feel like a retreat from the outside world. The available outdoor amenities, along with walkable access to nearby parks and trails, paint a picture of a lifestyle that blends relaxed living with opportunities for outdoor activity and exploration.

Security, maintenance, and management emerge as consistently strong points across many reviews. Several residents commend the staff for being responsive, friendly, and professional, with maintenance issues addressed promptly. A major theme is that the office manager and maintenance team are on the premises during standard business hours (8:00 to 5:00, Monday through Friday), with after-hours emergency contact available for urgent needs. There is also a sense of being well looked after by the owner, Tom, who is frequently mentioned in positive terms for his involvement and accessibility. For those who value a well-run, resident-focused management experience, Montmartre appears to deliver.

Walkability and neighborhood convenience are frequently praised as well. The complex's location places residents within easy reach of familiar Columbia destinations, including Gerbes, the ARC, the Farmer's Market, Shelter Gardens, Again Street Park, and other amenities. The proximity to Kiwanis Park and access to the Katy Trail add to the appeal for walkers and cyclists. Those who enjoy being near nature and outdoor spaces can particularly appreciate the easy range of nearby woods and parks, which complements the quiet, laid-back vibe inside the community.

Longer-tenured tenants often speak with enthusiasm about the management and the overall living experience. Reviews emphasize reasonable rent, the owner's openness to garden and pet-friendly policies, and the sense that the team gets to know residents personally and helps whenever maintenance or repairs are needed. One family even notes downsizing into a garden-friendly arrangement with multiple homes they rented through Montmartre, underscoring a flexible and accommodating approach to resident needs. A frequent sentiment is that Montmartre offers one of the best apartment experiences they have had, reinforcing the idea that this community is well-suited for those seeking stability, quiet, and a well-kept home environment.

Not every review is uniformly glowing, and one particularly negative perspective stands out as a cautionary note. A former resident describes a deeply troubling experience with the office manager, Nikki, and the owner, Tom. According to this account, they were described as rude, ageist toward residents under 60, intrusive in privacy, and untruthful in their dealings. The reviewer portrays interactions as abusive and disrespectful, with constant accusations of laziness and misbehavior, culminating in a strong admonition to avoid renting from this management team. While this stance is stark and sharply critical, it appears to be a singular, highly negative experience within a broader landscape of generally favorable remarks.

Taken together, the collection of reviews portrays Montmartre Apartments as a quiet, clean, and well-maintained community that delivers comfortable living spaces, strong grounds, and reliable on-site management in many cases. The property seems particularly attractive to residents who value peace, openness, and a strong sense of community, plus the convenience of a walkable location and accessible amenities. While a minority voice describes a very negative experience with specific staff members, the prevailing narrative from most residents is one of satisfaction, with long-term tenants willingly affirming the quality of the living environment, the beauty of the grounds, and the attentiveness of the management and maintenance teams. For those prioritizing quiet, space, and a thoughtful, well-kept place to call home, Montmartre Apartments presents a compelling option in the Columbia area.

This area of Columbia, Missouri offers a variety of amenities and services that cater to the needs of seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment. With several parks nearby, such as Stephens Lake Park and Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary, residents can enjoy spending time outdoors in nature. There are also numerous healthcare facilities in close proximity, including physicians' offices like Family Practice Inquiries Network Consortium and Missouri Digestive Health Center, as well as pharmacies like Walmart Pharmacy and CVS Pharmacy. For dining options, there are popular chain restaurants like Olive Garden and Chick-Fil-A, along with cafes such as Panera Bread and Starbucks. Additionally, there are hospitals like University Of Mo Health System and Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital located within a short distance for any medical needs. Overall, this area provides a peaceful and convenient setting for senior living in Columbia.

Parks

• Stephens Lake Park (0.5 miles)
• Boone Play Park (0.9 miles)
• Douglas Pool (1.5 miles)
• Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary (1.5 miles)
• Twin Lakes Recreation Area (2.2 miles)
• Twin Lakes Dog Park (2.2 miles)
• Capen Park (2.8 miles)

Physicians

• Family Practice Inquiries Network Consortium (0.5 miles)
• Missouri Digestive Health Center (1.1 miles)
• Restoration Eye Care (1.1 miles)
• Columbia Back & Neck Pain Clinic (1.3 miles)
• Missouri Radiology Imaging Center (1.3 miles)
• Daniel Forensic Psychiatric Services (1.3 miles)
• Restoration Eye Care (1.5 miles)

Restaurants

• Andy's Frozen Custard (0.5 miles)
• Olive Garden (0.6 miles)
• Chipotle Mexican Grill (0.6 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (0.6 miles)
• McDonald's (0.6 miles)
• Jazz A Louisiana Kitchen (0.8 miles)
• Taco Bell (0.8 miles)

Pharmacies

• Walmart Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
• Target Pharmacy (1 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
• Schnucks (1.3 miles)
• Walgreens (1.5 miles)
• Kilgore's Medical Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
• Kilgore's Medical Pharmacy (1.8 miles)

Cafes

• Panera Bread (1 miles)
• Starbucks (1 miles)
• Papa's Cat Cafe (1.5 miles)
• JJ’s Cafe (1.8 miles)
• Lakota Coffee Company (1.9 miles)
• Starbucks (2.1 miles)

Hospitals

• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic (1.3 miles)
• University Of Mo Health System (2.2 miles)
• Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital (2.2 miles)
• University Hospital Medical RCRDS Columbia (2.2 miles)
• St Helena Hospitals (2.3 miles)
• Student Health Center (2.3 miles)
• University of Missouri Orthopedic Center (2.4 miles)

Transportation

• Avis Rent A Car (1.5 miles)

Places of Worship

• Forum Boulevard Christian Church (3.3 miles)