Independence Realty Trust (IRT) 8-K Other Events

Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We have issued our report dated March 13, 2015 with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule included in the Annual Report of Trade Street Residential, Inc. on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the Registration Statements of Independence Realty Trust, Inc. on Form S-3 (FileNo. 333-196033) and Form S-8 (File No. 333-191612).

/s/ Grant Thornton LLP

Miami, Florida

June 11, 2015