What is the cheapest city to rent in Texas?

Laredo, TX is the cheapest city to rent in Texas with a 2-bedroom apartment averaging $1,080/month in 2026.

How much can I save renting in Texas's cheapest cities?

By choosing Texas's cheapest city over the state average, you could save $286/month or $3,432/year on rent.

What income do I need to rent in Texas's cheapest cities?

To afford the cheapest 2BR in Texas at $1,080/month, you need approximately $43,200/year based on the 30% of income guideline.

Cheapest Cities to Rent in Texas (2026)

Discover the most affordable cities for renters in Texas. These 7 cities offer the lowest rent prices in the state, perfect for budget-conscious renters.

$1,080

Cheapest 2BR

$1,366

State Average 2BR

$286

Monthly Savings

$3,432

Yearly Savings

Top 7 Cheapest Cities in Texas

Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)

Rank	City	Studio	1 Bed	2 Bed	3 Bed	Income Needed
#1	Laredo, TX	$765	$900	$1,080	$1,395	$43,200/yr
#2	Austin, TX	$885	$891	$1,095	$1,523	$43,800/yr
#3	El Paso, TX	$808	$950	$1,140	$1,473	$45,600/yr
#4	Corpus Christi, TX	$935	$1,100	$1,320	$1,705	$52,800/yr
#5	San Antonio, TX	$1,077	$1,177	$1,426	$1,830	$57,040/yr
#6	Houston, TX	$1,280	$1,323	$1,573	$2,116	$62,920/yr
#7	Dallas, TX	$1,582	$1,648	$1,931	$2,431	$77,240/yr

Why These Texas Cities Are Affordable

Texas consistently ranks as one of the best states for rental affordability relative to wages. The combination of no state income tax and reasonable rents provides significant purchasing power.

Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 88
Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums

Income Requirements

Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Texas's cheapest cities:

#1: Laredo

2BR: $1,080/mo requires $43,200/year

#2: Austin

2BR: $1,095/mo requires $43,800/year

#3: El Paso

2BR: $1,140/mo requires $45,600/year

How Texas's Cheapest Cities Compare

vs State Average

-$286/mo

cheaper than Texas average

vs National Average

-$320/mo

cheaper than US average

Cost of Living Index

Below national average (100)

What to Consider Before Moving

Best For

✓Tech professionals
✓Energy workers
✓Those seeking no income tax
✓Families seeking space

Considerations

•Extreme heat
•Car-dependent
•Some areas have severe weather