15 Cities Where the Typical Rent Is Below $1,500 — 3 Are in Texas
Written by
Rafaela Stalbalk Klose
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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As rent prices continue to soar nationwide, finding an affordable place to live has become a priority for many. Although options are limited, some cities still offer manageable rents along with a good quality of life, vibrant job markets and essential amenities.
According to the latest rental report from Realtor.com, there are 15 cities where the median rent falls below $1,500 a month, with several even below $1,300. Here’s a look at these 15 U.S. cities with budget-friendly rents — including three standout locations in Texas.
Also see the salary you need to afford rent in every state.
Oklahoma City
- Median rent: $1,037
Oklahoma City offers affordable rent and a welcoming community, with growing career options. That makes it an ideal spot for professionals seeking opportunity and low living costs.
Columbus, Ohio
- Median rent: $1,217
With moderate rent prices and a robust economy, Columbus offers a mix of affordability and opportunity. The city’s finance, healthcare and education sectors provide a variety of career options, attracting professionals looking for stability and growth within a thriving community.
Cleveland
- Median rent: $1,237
With affordable rent and a broad job market, Cleveland attracts professionals with career options in healthcare, manufacturing, finance, education and tech — all set against a rich cultural backdrop.
Memphis, Tennessee
- Median rent: $1,227
Memphis offers affordable rent along with a lively music scene, a strong healthcare industry and an affordable lifestyle overall. Notable job opportunities in Memphis are in finance, real estate, tourism, technology and agribusiness.
San Antonio
- Median rent: $1,268
With a lively cultural scene, historical sites and a steadily growing job market in healthcare, military, cybersecurity and manufacturing, San Antonio attracts professionals seeking career growth.
Louisville, Kentucky
- Median rent: $1,287
With low rent prices and a stable economy, Louisville offers renters the chance to enjoy Southern hospitality while keeping costs down. Many of the city’s top tech companies offer dynamic work environments. People are moving to the city for job opportunities in logistics and distribution, healthcare, and tech.
Indianapolis
- Median rent: $1,318
Known for its affordable cost of living, Indianapolis attracts renters with job opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing and tourism. The city offers vibrant neighborhoods and excellent public amenities at a low cost.
Detroit
- Median rent: $1,328
Detroit’s affordable rent and booming job market in the automotive, tech, healthcare and creative industries are drawing new talent. With low living costs and plenty of career growth, it’s a go-to spot for ambitious professionals.
Kansas City, Missouri
- Median rent: $1,357
Kansas City stands out for its affordable rent, diverse job market, and burgeoning food and arts scenes, making it a solid option for renters on a budget. Job opportunities in tech, healthcare, logistics and finance are drawing professionals to the city.
St. Louis
- Median rent: $1,361
St. Louis brings together affordable rent and a strong job market in booming fields such as healthcare, biotech, education and tech. With its diverse economy and low costs, the city is a hot spot for professionals looking to thrive without breaking the bank.
Cincinnati
- Median rent: $1,393
Cincinnati’s mix of affordable rent and hot job opportunities in healthcare, finance and manufacturing is pulling in a new wave of professionals. With a strong economy and vibrant culture, it’s a go-to spot for those seeking career growth without the big-city price tag.
Houston
- Median rent: $1,375
With budget-friendly rent and booming industries — like energy, aerospace and tech — Houston is the spot for career-focused professionals.
Dallas
- Median rent: $1,475
Job opportunities in manufacturing, life sciences and transportation are attracting professionals to Dallas. With a strong economy and lower living costs, the city offers a prime balance of affordability and career growth.
Pittsburgh
- Median rent: $1,480
Pittsburgh attracts professionals with affordable rent and expanding opportunities in tech, healthcare and education, making it ideal for career growth.
Las Vegas
- Median rent: $1,493
The city draws professionals with affordable rent and job opportunities in hospitality and entertainment, among others. Its strong tourism industry and lower living costs make it an ideal spot for career growth.
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