Austin has a rhythm all its own—live music echoing around Sixth Street, food trucks dishing out some of the best tacos in Texas, and a tech boom that refuses to slow down. But with all that energy comes a high cost of living, pushing many to look beyond the city limits for more budget-friendly options. Thankfully, the surrounding suburbs offer affordability without sacrificing charm, outdoor adventure, or easy access to Austin’s attractions. Here’s a closer look at ten of the most affordable Austin suburbs for renters in 2025.
Austin’s housing market at a glance
Austin’s housing costs have climbed in recent years, but several nearby suburbs offer more affordable alternatives. These areas provide a mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and easy access to the city’s music, tech, and food scenes. Before we dive into ten of the top affordable Austin suburbs, here’s a quick look at Austin’s housing prices.
Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin |
$1,201 |
Average 2-bedroom rent in Austin |
$1,353 |
|
$538,000 |
1. Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is where water meets wide-open Texas skies.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,024
- Distance from Austin: 50 miles southwest
- Drive time to Austin: About 1 hour
At $1,024 on average for a 1-bedroom apartment, Canyon Lake is a dream for those who want lakeside living without the sky-high rent. The lake itself is the main attraction, drawing boaters, swimmers, and anglers year-round. The Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country adds a layer of history, with exhibits featuring fossils and dinosaur tracks. Canyon Lake is an oasis for those willing to trade a longer commute for unbeatable scenery.
2. Lockhart
Lockhart isn’t just a town—it’s a pilgrimage site for barbecue lovers.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,096
- Distance from Austin: 33 miles south
- Drive time to Austin: About 35 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,096—up 13% from last year—Lockhart remains an affordable and flavorful option. Kreuz Market is a legendary barbecue joint that’s been serving up smoky perfection for decades. Lockhart State Park is a great spot for hiking, fishing, and hitting the links. It’s a town where good food and a relaxed pace of life go hand in hand.
3. San Marcos
San Marcos is a college town with a strong outdoor culture and an unbeatable location.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,155
- Distance from Austin: 32 miles southwest
- Drive time to Austin: 30–45 minutes
With the average 1-bedroom rent sitting at $1,155, San Marcos is relatively affordable. The San Marcos River is the heart of the town, drawing kayakers, swimmers, and tubers year-round. San Marcos Outlets, one of the largest outlet shopping centers in the country, attracts bargain hunters from across Texas. San Marcos is also home to Texas State University, giving this suburb the added bonus of a classic Texas college town vibe.
4. Manor
Manor is an up-and-coming suburb that is catching attention for its affordability.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,170
- Distance from Austin: 15 miles northeast
- Drive time to Austin: About 20 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,170—down 6% from last year—Manor is a smart pick for budget-conscious renters in Texas. ShadowGlen Golf Club is a scenic, well-kept course for golfers of all levels. East Metropolitan Park is packed with sports fields, fishing areas, and trails. As Austin continues to expand, Manor is quickly becoming a hot spot for those looking for space and savings.
5. Jollyville
Jollyville might not have a big name, but it offers convenience and affordability.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,180
- Distance from Austin: 17 miles north
- Drive time to Austin: About 25 minutes
At $1,180 for a 1-bedroom, Jollyville offers an unbeatable price for a suburb this close to downtown. Balcones District Park provides trails, sports fields, and green space in a city that values outdoor living. Great Hills Park is a local favorite, featuring miles of hiking trails with stunning Hill Country views. Jollyville is for those who want to be near Austin without paying Austin prices.
6. Kyle
Kyle is the kind of place where small-town charm meets rapid suburban growth.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,245
- Distance from Austin: 22 miles south
- Drive time to Austin: About 25 minutes
With 1-bedroom rents averaging $1,245, Kyle is an increasingly attractive option. Lake Kyle Park provides a peaceful setting for fishing and wildlife watching, while Historic Downtown Kyle is a hub for local shops and dining. Kyle is growing fast, but it still holds onto its roots. This can be seen through its many historical homes bumping right up next to brand new townhomes and luxury apartment complexes.
7. Cedar Park
Cedar Park is a fast-growing suburb that keeps things exciting with live music and green spaces.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,251
- Distance from Austin: 22 miles north
- Drive time to Austin: About 30 minutes
With an average rent of $1,251—a drop of 11% from the previous year—Cedar Park is gaining traction as a top choice for anyone looking to lay down roots in an affordable Texas suburb. The H-E-B Center is a major draw, hosting everything from concerts to hockey games. Brushy Creek Lake Park is great for kayaking, hiking, and unwinding in wide-open spaces. Cedar Park is perfect for those who want a little bit of everything with easy access to friends living in Austin.
8. Taylor
Taylor is where life slows down, and Texas charm turns up.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,274
- Distance from Austin: 35 miles northeast
- Drive time to Austin: About 40 minutes
At $1,274 for a 1-bedroom, Taylor remains one of the more affordable options, with steady rental prices. Murphy Park serves as the heart of the community, with a scenic lake, walking trails, and seasonal events. The Moody Museum pays tribute to Texas Governor Dan Moody, offering a glimpse into the state’s history. Taylor is an ideal spot for those looking for a quieter, no-frills lifestyle just outside Austin’s ever-expanding borders.
9. Bastrop
Bastrop is where Texas history meets towering pine trees and riverfront views.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,312
- Distance from Austin: 33 miles southeast
- Drive time to Austin: About 40 minutes
With an average rent of $1,312 for a 1-bedroom apartment, Bastrop offers great value. Bastrop State Park is famous for its loblolly pines, with hiking trails, camping spots, and quiet scenic views. Downtown Bastrop is a step back in time, with brick-lined streets, unique boutiques, and local eateries housed in buildings that have stood for over a century. It’s a town that blends history with outdoor adventure, making it an ideal escape from Austin’s rapid growth.
10. Hutto
Hutto is a small town with a mascot you won’t forget—a giant hippo, visible all over town.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,315
- Distance from Austin: 24 miles northeast
- Drive time to Austin: 25–35 minutes
At $1,315 per month for a 1-bedroom on average, Hutto is one of the best bargains in the Austin area. Old Town Hutto is a charming district lined with unique shops, cozy cafés, and the town’s famous hippo statue. Hutto Lake Park has walking trails and fishing spots, making it a peaceful escape. The town has a friendly, tight-knit feel, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordability with a sense of community.
Find your favorite affordable Austin suburb
The most affordable Austin suburbs offer something for everyone—whether it’s riverfront fun in San Marcos, small-town charm in Lockhart, or lakeside serenity in Canyon Lake. With rental prices fluctuating across the area, these suburbs provide a range of affordable options for those looking to stay close to Austin without breaking the bank. The hardest part? Choosing which one to call home.
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one-bedroom rent was less than Austin’s average rent and under 55 miles from downtown Austin. Average rental data from Austin rental market trends in January, 2025. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
