After years of steady growth, Houston rent prices have cooled in 2025. That gives renters more options and negotiating room than they had during the tightest market cycles. If you are weighing a move to Houston or deciding whether to renew your lease, our latest rent trends offer a clearer picture.
This article breaks down what Houston affordability looks like today. We cover current prices, how Houston compares with the national median, why rents fell, which neighborhoods tend to be more budget friendly, and specific steps renters can take to save money or strengthen their negotiating position.
Current rent prices in Houston
According to Zumper’s August 2025 National Rent Report, Houston’s median rents are:
- One-bedroom: $1,230, down 1.6% year-over-year.
- Two-bedroom: $1,480, down 3.9% year-over-year.
These declines show a modest cooling in Houston’s rental market.
How Houston compares to the national rates
For context, Zumper’s August 2025 national medians are:
- One-bedroom national median: $1,517, down 1.1% year-over-year.
- Two-bedroom national median: $1,897, down 0.9% year-over-year.
Comparisons:
- A one-bedroom in Houston costs $287 less than the national median.
- A two-bedroom in Houston costs $417 less than the national median.
That means Houston sits below national medians, offering clear cost advantages for renters who prioritize budget over proximity, especially when compared to the highest-cost coastal metros.
Why Houston rents are declining
Local and national factors drive Houston’s rent declines:
- Increased supply: Developers added new apartment stock in several submarkets, which eased competition.
- Moderating demand: Hiring and migration patterns softened compared to the earlier boom years, reducing immediate rental pressure.
- Shifting renter preferences: Some renters trade down or move to nearby suburbs for lower costs or larger units.
Together, these trends give renters more leverage when negotiating renewals or signing new leases.
How much do you need to earn to live in Houston?
A common affordability rule recommends spending no more than 30% of gross income on rent. Based on current medians:
- To afford a one-bedroom at $1,230, you should earn about $49,200 per year.
- To afford a two-bedroom at $1,480, the household income should be about $59,200 per year.
Remember to account for utilities, transportation, groceries, and other living expenses. Those costs vary with lifestyle, household size, and neighborhood.
Which Houston neighborhoods have the cheapest rents?
Neighborhood pricing varies widely across Houston. If you want the most affordable options, consider neighborhoods that sit outside the highest demand corridors or that include older inventory:
- Gulfton offers many budget friendly units and easy access to the Galleria and West Loop.
- Sharpstown has lower rents and established single family neighborhoods.
- East End and Second Ward provide value with improving dining and transit options.
- Alief delivers suburban pricing with straightforward access to central Houston.
Prices vary street by street, and new developments can change affordability quickly. Use local listings to compare recent rents for similar units before you commit.
Does Houston have rent control?
No. Texas does not have statewide rent control. Landlords set rents based on market conditions, building costs, and local competition. In a softer market, landlords may offer concessions to retain tenants, but legal caps on increases do not typically apply.
How much are utilities in Houston?
Utilities add meaningfully to monthly housing costs. Typical ranges in Houston:
- Utilities: Expect about $120 to $220 per month, depending on apartment size and whether cooling runs heavily in summer.
- Electricity: Usually the largest variable due to air conditioning needs in Houston’s hot months.
- Bundled utilities: Some units include water or trash, which can simplify monthly budgeting.
Always confirm which utilities the landlord includes before signing a lease.
Practical tips to rent smarter in Houston
Here are concrete steps renters can take right now:
- Use local rent data. Reference Zumper’s August 2025 medians and comparable listings in your building or block when negotiating.
- Negotiate in person when possible. Face-to-face conversations make it harder to say no and let you present documents and context directly.
- Bring proof and comparables. Have recent listings, your payment history, references from prior landlords, and a credit snapshot ready.
- Ask for concessions. If a landlord will not lower the monthly rent, request a free month, waived fees, or included parking.
- Time your move. Vacancy and concessions often increase in fall and winter, according to Zumper research.
- Consider roommates. Splitting a two-bedroom or a single family rental can drastically reduce per person costs.
- Evaluate total cost. Compare commute, utilities, parking, and amenity fees, not just the base rent.
FAQs about Houston affordability
Is Houston affordable in 2025?
Yes. Houston’s median one-bedroom rent is $1,230, down 1.6% year-over-year, and the median two-bedroom is $1,480, down 3.9% year-over-year, according to Zumper’s August 2025 data. Those declines give renters more options and negotiating power.
How much do you need to make to live in Houston?
Using the 30% income guideline, you’d need about $49,200 per year for a one-bedroom at $1,230, and about $59,200 per year for a two-bedroom at $1,480. Add utilities and other living costs to your budget for a full picture.
Which neighborhoods in Houston have the cheapest rents?
Neighborhoods like Gulfton, Sharpstown, East End, and Alief often provide the lowest monthly rents while still offering access to city amenities and transit options.
Does Houston have rent control?
No. Texas does not have statewide rent control. Rents follow market dynamics, so soft markets can lead to concessions, but legal caps on increases are rare.
How much are utilities in Houston?
Expect utilities to range from $120 to $220 per month, with electricity as the largest variable during hot months. Confirm with landlords which utilities they include.
Is Houston cheaper than other big cities?
Yes. Houston’s median rents sit below national medians, so renters often find it more affordable than many coastal and high cost markets. Your total cost will vary by neighborhood and personal expenses.
Conclusion
Houston affordability improved modestly in 2025 as one-bedroom and two-bedroom rents declined. Those changes create more options for renters and increase leverage when negotiating renewals or new leases. Use up-to-date local data, compare similar units, and time your search strategically to maximize savings.
Start your search on Zumper to see current Houston listings.
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