Average Rent in Houston & Rent Price Trends
Thinking about making a move to Houston? With a robust job market, great eats and entertainment options, and a low cost of living, it's easy to see why H-Town is a popular choice for renters.
Before you pack your bags, figure out your budget by learning about the average rent in Houston.
Average Rent in Houston
- The average rent for a studio apartment in Houston is $820.
- The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Houston is $897.
- The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Houston is $1,068.
- The average rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Houston is $1,253.
Rent Trends: Houston's Rent Growth
Although the drops in rent prices are not as dramatic as cities like San Francisco and Seattle, rents in Houston have still fallen. Rents are down 3.4% in Houston, but may soon be on the rise with newly-remote workers relocating to more affordable cities.
If you are looking to score a great deal on a Houston apartment, now is a great time. Be sure to look out for rent specials in Houston, which have become more prominent since the pandemic.
Rent Trends: Houston's Apartment Inventory by Price
- 26% of Houston apartments cost less than $1,000 per month.
- 61% of Houston apartments cost between $1,000-$1,999 per month.
- 9% of Houston apartments cost between $2,000-$2,999 per month.
- 4% of Houston apartments cost over $3,000 per month.
Rent Trends: Houston Apartment Inventory by Layout
- 2% of apartments in Houston are studio apartments.
- 55% of apartments in Houston are 1-bedroom apartments.
- 38% of apartments in Houston are 2-bedroom apartments.
- 5% of apartments in Houston are 3-bedroom apartments or larger.
Average Rent in Houston Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Average 1-BR Rent | Average 2-BR Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | $1,974 | $3,134 |
| Museum / Medical | $1,842 | $2,723 |
| University Place | $1,804 | $3,068 |
| Montrose | $1,763 | $2,876 |
| Washington Ave | $1,646 | $2,336 |
| Greater Heights | $1,583 | $2,278 |
| Midtown | $1,568 | $2,131 |
| River Oaks / Upper Kirby | $1,453 | $2,269 |
| Uptown | $1,441 | $2,059 |
| MacGregor | $1,416 | $1,882 |
The most expensive neighborhoods in Houston are Downtown ($1,974), Museum District / Medical Center ($1,842), and University Place ($1,804).
The most affordable neighborhoods in Houston are Sharpstown ($705), Westwood ($725) and Gulfton ($840).
How Much Do I Need to Make to live in Houston?
Does your salary allow you to live comfortably in Houston? Using the 30% rule, we can estimate how much you need to make to afford to live in an average-priced Houston apartment.
- If you are renting an average priced studio apartment in Houston, your annual salary should be around $29,520 or higher.
- If you are renting an average priced 1-bedroom apartment in Houston, your annual salary should be around $32,292 or higher.
- If you are renting an average priced 2-bedroom apartment in Houston, your annual salary should be around $38,448 or higher.
Remember, the 30% rule is simply a rule of thumb, and your personal situation will impact how much rent you can afford. Need help finding your ideal rent price? Try using our rent calculator.
Ready to find your dream Houston apartment? Just start our quiz to kick off your apartment hunt!