How Much Is Rent in Dallas? 2026 Pricing Breakdown by Neighborhood
Updated March 2026
If you are planning a move to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex this year, the first question on your mind is likely, “How much is rent in Dallas?” It is a fair question, and the answer depends heavily on where you want to live. The DFW area spans dozens of cities and neighborhoods, each with its own personality and price tag. The good news for renters in 2026 is that the market has shifted in your favor. New apartment construction has flooded the metroplex with inventory, vacancy rates have climbed to roughly 10.5%, and the average rent in Dallas Texas has actually dipped compared to last year.
Whether you are searching for a trendy high-rise in Uptown, a historic loft in Deep Ellum, or a spacious garden-style apartment in the family-friendly suburbs of Plano or Frisco, understanding the local market is crucial. The average apartment rent in Dallas varies widely depending on the exact neighborhood, the age of the building, and the amenities included. A luxury unit built in 2025 with a rooftop pool and coworking lounge will cost far more than a well-maintained community from the 1990s just a few blocks away.
As your local Dallas apartment matchmakers since 1997, the team at AOK Apartment Locators has compiled this comprehensive 2026 pricing guide. We will break down the average rent in Dallas neighborhood by neighborhood, compare costs across the metroplex, and share insider tips for finding the best deals. Best of all, our apartment locating service is completely free to you.
Table of Contents
- The Big Picture: Average Rent in Dallas for 2026
- Dallas Neighborhood Rent Breakdown
- North DFW Suburbs: Plano, Frisco, Richardson & More
- West & Central DFW: Las Colinas, Irving & Beyond
- East DFW: Garland, Rockwall & Mesquite
- Complete Rent Comparison Table
- Factors That Affect Your Dallas Rent
- Pro Tips for Finding the Best Apartment Deals
- How an Apartment Locator Can Save You Money
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Big Picture: Average Rent in Dallas for 2026
Before we dive into specific neighborhoods, let us look at the overall market. The average rent in Dallas currently sits at approximately $1,576 per month for an 858-square-foot apartment. That figure is down about 0.5% from the previous year, and the broader DFW metro saw an even steeper 2.5% year-over-year decline in median asking rents. For renters, this means more options, more negotiating power, and more move-in specials than we have seen in years.
Here is a quick look at the citywide average apartment rent in Dallas by unit size:
| Apartment Size | Average Monthly Rent | Average Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,228 | 545 sq. ft. |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 | 721 sq. ft. |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,838 | 1,068 sq. ft. |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,200 | 1,327 sq. ft. |
Keep in mind that these are citywide averages. The largest share of rentals in Dallas (about 44%) falls between $1,001 and $1,500 per month, meaning there are plenty of options available for moderate budgets. At the same time, 58% of Dallas households are renter-occupied, so competition for the best-priced units can still be stiff in popular areas.
Dallas Neighborhood Rent Breakdown
The city of Dallas is a patchwork of distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own unique vibe, lifestyle, and price point. Below is what you can expect to pay in the most popular urban districts where our team helps renters every single day.
Uptown & Victory Park
Uptown is synonymous with luxury, vibrancy, and modern urban living. It is one of the most walkable areas in Dallas, packed with high-end dining, chic boutiques, and lively nightlife along McKinney Avenue and the Katy Trail. Victory Park, just south of Uptown near the American Airlines Center, adds a sports-and-entertainment dimension. Because of its premium location and consistently high demand, Uptown is the most expensive neighborhood in the city for renters.
- Studio: $1,500 – $1,800/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,900 – $2,500/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $2,600 – $3,500/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $2,785/mo
Downtown Dallas & Deep Ellum
If you want to be in the center of the action, Downtown Dallas offers incredible high-rise views, proximity to major employers, and direct DART rail access. Just to the east, Deep Ellum is the city’s premier arts and entertainment district, famous for its colorful murals, live music venues, and historic warehouse-to-loft conversions. New mid-rise apartment communities have sprung up throughout both areas, giving renters a wide range of options from sleek modern towers to character-filled converted spaces.
- Studio: $1,200 – $1,500/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,500 – $1,900/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $2,000 – $2,600/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $1,810 (Deep Ellum) to $2,042 (Downtown)
Lower Greenville
Lower Greenville strikes a perfect balance between historical elegance and modern vibrancy. It is a favorite among young professionals who enjoy the eclectic mix of patio bars, local restaurants, and boutique fitness studios. The residential streets feature beautiful historic homes mixed with newer apartment developments, and the proximity to Lakewood and White Rock Lake adds outdoor recreation to the appeal.
- Studio: $1,400 – $1,700/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,200/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $2,200 – $2,800/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $2,240/mo
Bishop Arts District
Located in North Oak Cliff, the Bishop Arts District is celebrated for its small-town feel, independent boutiques, and phenomenal dining scene. It offers a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere compared to Uptown, with a mix of new mid-rise apartments and renovated historic buildings. Rent here is notably lower than in the trendier northern neighborhoods, making it a great value pick for renters who want character and culture without the premium price tag.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,400/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,400 – $1,700/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,800 – $2,300/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $1,684/mo
Medical District & Love Field
These adjacent neighborhoods are rapidly growing hubs on the west side of Dallas. The Medical District is ideal for healthcare professionals wanting a short commute to Parkland, UT Southwestern, or Children’s Medical Center. The Love Field area offers convenient travel access via Dallas Love Field Airport and relatively affordable new construction options just minutes from downtown. Both areas have seen a surge of new apartment development in recent years.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,500/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,400 – $1,800/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,400/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $1,690 (Love Field) to $1,859 (Medical District)
North Dallas
North Dallas is a sprawling area that stretches from the Park Cities border up toward the northern city limits. It is known for its established neighborhoods, strong school options, and proximity to the Galleria Dallas and the North Dallas Tollway business corridor. Rent here offers a solid middle ground between the premium urban core and the outer suburbs.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,400/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,700/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,200/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $1,677/mo
Lake Highlands & Northeast Dallas
For renters seeking affordability without leaving the city limits, Lake Highlands and Northeast Dallas are excellent choices. These areas offer a suburban feel with mature trees, rolling hills, and proximity to White Rock Lake, all while maintaining some of the lowest rent averages within Dallas proper. The Lake Highlands school district is also a major draw for families.
- Studio: $900 – $1,100/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,000 – $1,400/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,800/mo
- Neighborhood Average: $1,212 (Lake Highlands) to $1,300 (Northeast Dallas)
North DFW Suburbs: Plano, Frisco, Richardson & More
The northern suburbs of Dallas are famous for their master-planned communities, top-rated school districts, and massive corporate headquarters from companies like Toyota, Liberty Mutual, and JPMorgan Chase. While rent here can rival some Dallas neighborhoods, you generally get more square footage, resort-style amenities, and newer construction for your money.
Plano & Frisco
Plano and Frisco are economic powerhouses. With the Legacy West development, The Star (home of the Dallas Cowboys headquarters), and Stonebriar Centre, these cities offer urban-style walkable districts alongside traditional suburban living. Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and its rent prices reflect the high demand.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,500/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,800/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,300/mo
- Average Rent: $1,677 (Plano) | $1,749 (Frisco)
Addison & Richardson
Addison is famous for having more restaurants per capita than any other city in Texas, making it a hotspot for foodies and young professionals. The Addison Circle area features walkable mid-rise living with a vibrant town center. Richardson, historically known as the Telecom Corridor, offers a great mix of older, affordable properties and brand-new luxury builds near the CityLine development and UT Dallas campus.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,400/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,700/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,200/mo
- Average Rent: $1,650 (Addison) | $1,676 (Richardson)
Allen
Just north of Plano, Allen provides a slightly quieter suburban experience with fantastic shopping at the Allen Premium Outlets and highly-rated schools in the Allen ISD. It is slightly more affordable than its southern neighbors while still offering modern apartment communities with excellent amenities.
- Studio: $1,100 – $1,400/mo
- 1 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,600/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,100/mo
- Average Rent: $1,626
West & Central DFW: Las Colinas, Irving & Beyond
The western and central suburbs offer incredible convenience, especially if you travel frequently out of DFW International Airport or commute between Dallas and Fort Worth. These areas also tend to provide strong value compared to the northern suburbs.
Irving & Las Colinas
Irving offers a wide range of affordability, but its crown jewel is the master-planned community of Las Colinas. Known for its beautiful canals, upscale dining along Water Street, and major corporate offices (including Exxon Mobil and Kimberly-Clark nearby), Las Colinas commands a premium over the rest of Irving. If you work near DFW Airport or along the 114 corridor, this area is hard to beat.
- 1 Bedroom: $1,200 – $1,500/mo (Irving) | $1,400 – $1,700/mo (Las Colinas)
- 2 Bedroom: $1,500 – $2,000/mo (Irving) | $1,800 – $2,300/mo (Las Colinas)
- Average Rent: $1,485 (Irving) | $1,722 (Las Colinas)
Carrollton & Farmers Branch
These neighboring cities are experiencing a renaissance, particularly around their historic downtown areas and DART Green Line stations. Farmers Branch, one of the oldest settlements in Dallas County, has seen significant new development while maintaining a small-town charm. Carrollton’s diverse dining scene and convenient location along the DART rail make it a favorite for commuters.
- 1 Bedroom: $1,200 – $1,600/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,600 – $2,100/mo
- Average Rent: $1,563 (Carrollton) | $1,528 (Farmers Branch)
Lewisville, Arlington & Euless
If you are looking for more budget-friendly options in the Mid-Cities or near the lakes, these areas are fantastic choices. Lewisville sits along beautiful Lewisville Lake and offers a recreational lifestyle at a moderate price. Arlington, home to AT&T Stadium (Cowboys) and Globe Life Field (Rangers), provides some of the most affordable rent in the metroplex. Euless, nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, rounds out the Mid-Cities with solid value and easy airport access.
- 1 Bedroom: $1,100 – $1,500/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,400 – $2,000/mo
- Average Rent: $1,474 (Lewisville) | $1,328 (Arlington) | $1,468 (Euless)
East DFW: Garland, Rockwall & Mesquite
The eastern suburbs are known for their proximity to Lake Ray Hubbard and generally offer more affordable rent prices compared to the northern and western suburbs, making them excellent options for budget-conscious renters who do not mind a slightly longer commute.
Garland & Mesquite
Both Garland and Mesquite offer a traditional suburban feel with excellent access to I-30, I-635, and the President George Bush Turnpike. Garland’s Firewheel Town Center provides great shopping and dining, while Mesquite, the “Rodeo Capital of Texas,” boasts some of the most affordable average rents in the entire DFW area. If your top priority is keeping housing costs low, Mesquite deserves a serious look.
- 1 Bedroom: $1,000 – $1,500/mo (Garland) | $1,000 – $1,300/mo (Mesquite)
- 2 Bedroom: $1,400 – $1,900/mo (Garland) | $1,300 – $1,700/mo (Mesquite)
- Average Rent: $1,416 (Garland) | $1,241 (Mesquite)
Rockwall
Situated right on Lake Ray Hubbard, Rockwall offers a unique lakeside lifestyle that is hard to find elsewhere in the metroplex. The Harbor district features waterfront dining, entertainment, and stunning lake views. It is a highly desirable, slightly more premium eastern suburb that attracts renters who value outdoor recreation and a tight-knit community feel.
- 1 Bedroom: $1,300 – $1,600/mo
- 2 Bedroom: $1,700 – $2,100/mo
- Average Rent: $1,646
Complete Rent Comparison Table: All DFW Areas
The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the average rent in Dallas Texas and surrounding suburbs. Use it to quickly identify which areas fit your budget. Click any area name to explore available apartments on our location page.
| Area | 1BR Range | 2BR Range | Average Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uptown | $1,900 – $2,500 | $2,600 – $3,500 | $2,785 |
| Lower Greenville | $1,700 – $2,200 | $2,200 – $2,800 | $2,240 |
| Downtown / Deep Ellum | $1,500 – $1,900 | $2,000 – $2,600 | $1,810 – $2,042 |
| Medical District | $1,500 – $1,800 | $1,900 – $2,400 | $1,859 |
| Frisco | $1,400 – $1,800 | $1,800 – $2,300 | $1,749 |
| Las Colinas | $1,400 – $1,700 | $1,800 – $2,300 | $1,722 |
| Love Field | $1,400 – $1,700 | $1,700 – $2,100 | $1,690 |
| Bishop Arts | $1,400 – $1,700 | $1,800 – $2,300 | $1,684 |
| Plano | $1,300 – $1,700 | $1,700 – $2,200 | $1,677 |
| North Dallas | $1,300 – $1,700 | $1,700 – $2,200 | $1,677 |
| Richardson | $1,300 – $1,700 | $1,700 – $2,200 | $1,676 |
| Addison | $1,300 – $1,600 | $1,700 – $2,100 | $1,650 |
| Rockwall | $1,300 – $1,600 | $1,700 – $2,100 | $1,646 |
| Allen | $1,300 – $1,600 | $1,700 – $2,100 | $1,626 |
| Carrollton | $1,200 – $1,600 | $1,600 – $2,100 | $1,563 |
| Farmers Branch | $1,200 – $1,600 | $1,600 – $2,000 | $1,528 |
| Irving | $1,200 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $2,000 | $1,485 |
| Lewisville | $1,200 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $2,000 | $1,474 |
| Euless | $1,200 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $1,900 | $1,468 |
| Garland | $1,100 – $1,500 | $1,400 – $1,900 | $1,416 |
| Arlington | $1,100 – $1,400 | $1,400 – $1,800 | $1,328 |
| Northeast Dallas | $1,100 – $1,400 | $1,400 – $1,800 | ~$1,300 |
| Mesquite | $1,000 – $1,300 | $1,300 – $1,700 | $1,241 |
| Lake Highlands | $1,000 – $1,300 | $1,300 – $1,700 | $1,212 |
Factors That Affect Your Dallas Rent
When asking how much is rent in Dallas, it is important to understand that two apartments in the same neighborhood can have vastly different prices. Here are the main factors driving those differences.
New Construction vs. Older Properties. A brand-new mid-rise built in 2025 will charge a significant premium over a garden-style property built in the 1990s, even if they sit on the same street. New builds typically feature smart-home technology, quartz countertops, and modern finishes that justify the higher price. However, older properties often offer larger floor plans and more mature landscaping at a fraction of the cost.
Amenities and Common Areas. Properties with resort-style pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, coworking spaces, rooftop lounges, and pet spas will cost more. If you do not plan to use these amenities regularly, choosing a property with fewer bells and whistles is one of the easiest ways to save $100 to $200 per month.
Location and Walkability. In Dallas, you pay a premium to not use your car. Apartments within walking distance of grocery stores, restaurants, and transit stations (like the DART rail) command higher rents than car-dependent communities farther from commercial centers.
Unit Upgrades and Floor Level. Within the same building, upgraded units with stainless steel appliances, hard-surface flooring, and custom backsplashes will cost more than “classic” units with standard finishes. Higher floors with better views also carry a premium, especially in high-rise buildings downtown or in Uptown.
Lease Length and Timing. Shorter leases (month-to-month or 6-month terms) almost always cost more per month than a standard 12- or 13-month lease. Additionally, signing a lease during the slower winter months can result in lower base rent and better concessions.
Pro Tips for Finding the Best Apartment Deals in Dallas
Even in a competitive market, there are proven strategies to find incredible value. Here are the insider tips our team shares with every renter we work with.
Move During the Off-Season. Rent prices in Dallas typically peak during the summer months (June through August) when demand is highest. Prices and concessions are most favorable during the winter months (November through February). If your timeline allows flexibility, a winter move can save you hundreds of dollars over the life of your lease.
Ask About Look-and-Lease Specials. Many Dallas apartment communities offer incentives like “One Month Free” or waived application and admin fees if you apply within 24 to 48 hours of your initial tour. These concessions can reduce your effective monthly rent by $100 or more. Always ask the leasing office what specials are currently available, and do not be afraid to negotiate.
Consider Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods. While Uptown and Lower Greenville are fantastic, looking just a few minutes away in the Medical District, Love Field, or Bishop Arts can yield the same quality of apartment for significantly less money. These areas are rapidly developing and offer excellent long-term value.
Look at Properties Built Between 2015 and 2020. These communities are new enough to have modern finishes and amenities but old enough that they are no longer commanding “brand-new” premiums. They often represent the sweet spot of quality and value in the Dallas market.
Use a Free Apartment Locator. This is the single best piece of advice we can offer. A professional apartment locator has access to real-time pricing, unadvertised specials, and relationships with leasing teams across the metroplex. The service costs you nothing, and it can save you both time and money.
How an Apartment Locator Can Save You Money
Navigating the Dallas rental market alone can be exhausting. Between scrolling through hundreds of listings, calling leasing offices, scheduling tours, and comparing prices, the process can take weeks. That is exactly why using an apartment locator is the smartest move you can make.
At AOK Apartment Locators, our service is 100% free to you. The apartment communities pay us out of their marketing budget, so there is never a fee or hidden cost on your end. Here is what we bring to the table:
- Real-Time Market Knowledge: We monitor the Dallas market daily and know exactly which buildings are offering the best move-in specials, which properties are lowering their rates to fill vacancies, and which neighborhoods offer the best value for your specific budget.
- Custom Apartment Lists: We take your criteria (budget, location, pet needs, commute, must-have amenities) and build a personalized list of properties that match your exact needs, saving you hours of research.
- Access to Unadvertised Deals: Many of the best specials never make it to public listing sites. Our relationships with property managers across DFW give us access to exclusive concessions and pricing.
- Expert Guidance: From understanding lease terms to navigating credit requirements, our team has been helping great people find great places since 1997.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Dallas Apartment?
Stop stressing over rent prices and let the local experts do the heavy lifting. Whether you need a luxury Uptown high-rise or a budget-friendly suburban gem, we will match you with the right apartment at the right price.
Call us today at (972) 818-3456 or start your free search online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas Rent
As of early 2026, the average rent in Dallas Texas is approximately $1,576 per month for all apartment sizes. Studio apartments average around $1,228, one-bedroom apartments average $1,400, two-bedroom apartments average $1,838, and three-bedroom apartments average $2,200 per month.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dallas is $1,400 per month, though this varies significantly by neighborhood. Luxury areas like Uptown average $1,900 to $2,500, while more affordable suburbs like Mesquite and Arlington range from $1,000 to $1,400.
Yes, Dallas-Fort Worth rent prices have seen a slight decrease in 2026. The median asking rent in the DFW metro area experienced a roughly 2.5% decline year-over-year, and vacancy rates have risen to approximately 10.5%. This makes it a renter-friendly market with more room to negotiate concessions and lower rates.
Some of the most affordable areas in the Dallas metroplex include Mesquite (average $1,241), Lake Highlands (average $1,212), Arlington (average $1,328), Garland (average $1,416), and Northeast Dallas.
Uptown Dallas is the most expensive neighborhood for renters, with an average rent of $2,785 per month. Other premium areas include Lower Greenville at $2,240 and Downtown Dallas at $2,042.
Generally, yes. Suburbs like Mesquite ($1,241), Arlington ($1,328), and Garland ($1,416) offer significantly lower average rents than urban Dallas neighborhoods. However, some premium suburbs like Frisco ($1,749) and Las Colinas ($1,722) can rival or exceed the citywide average.
An apartment locator like AOK Apartment Locators provides a 100% free service to renters. We have access to unadvertised move-in specials, know which properties are offering concessions, and can match you with apartments that fit your exact budget and preferences. Learn how it works or call us at (972) 818-3456.