Average Rent in Houston, TX & Rent Prices by Neighborhood | Wan Bridge

Average Rent in Houston, TX

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Whether you’re considering moving to Houston, relocating within the city, or simply curious about the cost of living in the Lone Star State, we’ve put together a practical guide that includes everything you need to know about how Houstonians live. We’re covering the average cost of rent in Houston, the most popular neighborhoods, and so much more.

Average Rent in Houston, TX

For anyone thinking about relocating, understanding the average rent in Houston is incredibly useful for budgeting and choosing the right neighborhood. The average rent provides a snapshot of the housing market, offering insights into the economic landscape of the city.

This figure is calculated based on the rents listed across multiple sources and reflects the costs of various types of housing, from compact studios to spacious family homes. By examining average rent, prospective residents can gauge the affordability of different areas, compare Houston’s cost of living to other cities, and make informed decisions about where to live based on their financial comfort and lifestyle preferences. This information is especially valuable for setting realistic expectations and planning for a financially stable life in Houston.

What is the Average Rent in Houston?

In Houston, average rent costs are estimated to be about $1,868.

Keep in mind that there are many Houston rentals that cost more than this, as well as many that cost less. You Houston rent price will depend on many different factors, including the size of your property, community amenities, specific location and neighborhood, and more.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a House in Houston, TX?

Single-family houses for rent in Houston vary considerably, with the market changing by the day. So, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact average cost of renting a house in Houston – because it simply never stays the same.

However, Zillow estimates the median rental home price in Houston to be somewhere around $2,100 per month. This number may seem lower than you would expect, and this is largely because there is such a variety of property types in a city as large and diverse as Houston. So, the cost for a very compact property with 1 or 2 bedrooms impacts the data, as does the rental price for an expansive mansion on a multi-acre property.

What is the Average Apartment/Rental Home Size in Houston?

Even though apartment sizes are shrinking at a national level, apartments in Houston are actually getting larger – which is good news for tenants. Here in Houston, the average apartment is about 923 square feet (more than 4% larger than the national average).

And as it turns out, the old saying that “everything is bigger in Texas” is also true when it comes to the average single-family home size. Houston ranked well for home size, with data showing that residents can enjoy a relatively spacious average of about 1,830 square feet.

Houston, TX Apartment/Home Rent Ranges

Based on recent data provided by Zillow, the average cost of rent in Houston, TX spans an extremely broad spectrum, ranging anywhere from $400 to $35,000 per month. Of course, there are so many factors that impact how much it costs of rent a house in Houston, including specific location, property size and type, and more.

Here’s a closer look at rent prices in Houston based on the specific property type:

  • Median rent for single-family homes in Houston hovers around $2,100.
  • Median rent for Houston apartments and condos is about $1,400.
  • Median rent for townhouses in Houston is around $2,100.

Houston, TX, Occupied Housing Units

Based on information from the Greater Houston Community Foundation, more than 92% of Houston’s 2.5 million housing units were occupied in 2023. For prospective residents, this means that the market can be competitive – rental properties often go quickly, so you’ll want to take action as soon as you see a home you love.

About 60% of occupied housing units were occupied by homeowners, while renters live in the other 40%. Other sources say that the split is actually closer to 50/50 in and around Houston. In the last decade, home ownership has declined, and a growing number of people are opting to rent for many different reasons – including convenience, flexibility, and affordability.

Houston, TX Rent Trends

Over the last couple of years, Houston rent prices have stayed fairly stable. Overall, there has been an increase of about $18 when you look at year-over-year changes in rent costs for single-family homes, apartments, and townhomes. Whereas townhouses and single-family homes decreased slightly in price, apartments increased – so, ultimately it depends on the type of rental property you’re looking for.

Average Rent in Houston, TX by Neighborhood/Suburb

Downtown Houston

Average Rent: $2,177

Downtown Houston pulses with urban energy, featuring top-tier entertainment, dining, and parks within a bustling business hub.

Fourth Ward

Average Rent: $2,256

The Fourth Ward is a historically rich area that melds its cultural heritage with modern amenities and a vibrant community life.

Midtown Houston

Average Rent: $2,128

Midtown Houston offers a youthful and lively atmosphere, renowned for its nightlife, trendy shops, and convenient access to major city attractions.

Neartown – Montrose

Average Rent: $2,172

Neartown – Montrose is celebrated for its eclectic vibe, arts scene, and diverse community, making it a culturally rich and inclusive neighborhood.

Rosharon

Average Rent: $2,656

Rosharon offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle with spacious homes and natural surroundings, just a short drive from downtown Houston.

Katy

Average Rent: $2,320

Katy combines family-friendly suburban living with excellent schools and new amenities, making it ideal for family life and community activities.

Kingwood

Average Rent: $1,373

Kingwood, known as the “Livable Forest,” offers a scenic environment with lush landscapes and strong community engagement.

Pearland

Average Rent: $2,308

Pearland is a dynamic suburb with a mix of urban and suburban qualities, known for its shopping centers, diverse food scene, and excellent schools.

Atascocita

Average Rent: $2,250

Atascocita is a favorite neighborhood for its affordable living, recreational amenities like golf courses and Lake Houston, catering to active families and retirees.

What are the Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Houston?

Kingwood tops the list of affordable areas in Houston with an average rent of $1,373, offering a community-centric lifestyle with plenty of nearby amenities. Other areas like Rosharon and Atascocita also provide good value, combining suburban convenience with family-friendly amenities for those seeking budget-friendly living near Houston.

What are the Most Popular Neighborhoods in Houston?

Houston’s most popular neighborhoods include Midtown Houston, known for its vibrant nightlife and trendy shops, and Neartown – Montrose, celebrated for its diverse community and rich arts scene. Both areas attract residents with their dynamic mix of activities and proximity to central Houston’s amenities. For families, Pearland, Katy, Atascocita, and Kingwood are all popular options, thanks to their affordability, great schools, and more.

How Houston Compares to Other Cities

Compared to the national median, Houston rent is actually more affordable than you might expect, coming in nearly $200 lower. Houston’s average rent is competitive when compared to other large cities in the U.S., offering a more affordable alternative to places like New York City and San Francisco, and is on par with or slightly higher than cities like Dallas and Atlanta. This balance makes Houston an excellent option for anyone looking for urban living without the highest costs.

Find Luxury Homes for Rent in Houston

Are you ready to make the move to Houston, TX? Wan Bridge is proud to offer a diverse range of exceptional houses for rent in Houston, including single-family homes and townhouses that prioritize luxury living. Here, you can find the perfect place to call home.

For more information about our build to rent communities and rental properties, contact Wan Bridge today!

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