As the city continues to grow, finding the cheapest neighborhoods in Dallas remains a top priority for renters looking to balance cost and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time renter, or just looking to increase your savings, exploring apartments in Dallas can help you find a community that fits your lifestyle and budget.
In this Rent. article, we’ll explore some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Dallas, complete with neighborhood highlights and key details to help you find your perfect home.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Dallas and what you can expect to pay for a one-bedroom apartment in each area.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-bedroom rent |
| Pleasant Grove | $850 |
| Vickery Meadows | $982 |
| Southeast Dallas | $993 |
| Highland Hills | $1,017 |
| Casa View | $1,049 |
| Lake Highlands | $1,050 |
| Bachman-Northwest Highway | $1,058 |
| Northeast Dallas | $1,105 |
1. Pleasant Grove
Average 1-bedroom rent: $850 | YoY change: N/A
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,315 | YoY change: 32%
Neighborhood highlights: Expansive parks, local taquerias, suburban feel
Pleasant Grove is one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Dallas. The neighborhood has a strong local feel, with hidden gem restaurants like Tacos La Banqueta serving up some of the best street tacos in the city. It’s a short drive to major shopping centers along Buckner Boulevard. It’s also near Crawford Memorial Park which has trails and open green space for outdoor time. While it’s more car-friendly, there are DART bus routes that make commuting to downtown manageable.
2. Vickery Meadows
Average 1-bedroom rent: $982 | YoY change: -1%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,422 | YoY change: 5%
Neighborhood highlights: Diverse food scene, proximity to NorthPark Mall, major transit access
Vickery Meadows is a renter-friendly area in Dallas with a mix of budget-friendly apartments and townhomes. It’s also one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city. The area has an international food scene that includes everything from Ethiopian spots to authentic Thai restaurants. You’re right next to NorthPark Center, one of the best shopping malls in Dallas, and close to White Rock Lake for weekend bike rides or kayaking.
3. Southeast Dallas
Average 1-bedroom rent: $993 | YoY change: 3%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,301 | YoY change: 18%
Neighborhood highlights: Large green spaces, easy freeway access, community markets
Southeast Dallas is mostly residential, with older homes and apartment communities that offer more space for the price. You’re close to the Trinity River Audubon Center which is one of the best nature spots in the city. While public transit is limited, major roads like Interstate 45 make commuting easy. If you’re looking for a quiet, affordable place with access to green space, Southeast Dallas is worth considering.
4. Highland Hills
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,017 | YoY change: -12%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,162 | YoY change: -11%
Neighborhood highlights: Scenic parks, quiet streets, convenient commuting routes
Highland Hills is a lesser-known but affordable neighborhood in southern Dallas. It’s home to Paul Quinn College and it’s close to the UNT Dallas campus as well. The neighborhood has a quieter, more suburban feel, with local parks and open spaces offering a break from city life. Most residents rely on cars, but DART bus routes run through the area, making trips to downtown possible.
5. Casa View
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,049 | YoY change: -15%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,255 | YoY change: -13%
Neighborhood highlights: Mid-century charm, vintage shops, easy access to White Rock Lake
Casa View has a mid-century feel, with older homes and small apartment complexes. However, it’s been seeing a slow revival in recent years. You’re near White Rock Lake, which is perfect for biking, kayaking, or just relaxing outdoors. While it’s mostly a car-friendly area, major roads like Ferguson Road and Garland Road make it easy to get to other parts of the city. If you want an affordable rental with a bit of character, Casa View is worth a look.
6. Lake Highlands
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,050 | YoY change: -7%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,414 | YoY change: -8%
Neighborhood highlights: Access to White Rock Trail, local breweries, strong biking culture
Lake Highlands is one of the best neighborhoods in Dallas for renters who don’t want to sacrifice green space or convenience. It’s right next to White Rock Lake, which means easy access to trails and parks. The neighborhood has a mix of older apartment complexes, duplexes, and rental homes, giving renters a variety of options. There are plenty of local spots to check out, like Resident Taqueria for inventive tacos or Vector Brewing for craft beer.
7. Bachman-Northwest Highway
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,058 | YoY change: -16%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,525 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Close to Bachman Lake, easy DART access, mix of shopping and dining
Bachman-Northwest Highway is a neighborhood that’s surprisingly well-connected. It’s close to Dallas Love Field Airport, making it a great spot for frequent travelers or airline employees. Additionally, the DART Green Line runs through the area making public transit a viable option. The neighborhood is home to Bachman Lake Park, a great place for jogging, picnicking, or watching small planes take off from Love Field. You’ll also find lots of local restaurants, from classic Tex-Mex spots to some of the best Vietnamese food in the city.
8. Northeast Dallas
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,105 | YoY change: -9%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,545 | YoY change: -7%
Neighborhood highlights: Eclectic dining, walkable areas, close to Greenville Avenue nightlife
Northeast Dallas is a large area with everything from budget-friendly apartments to townhomes and duplexes. It’s close to major shopping areas like Town East Mall and has plenty of grocery stores, making everyday errands convenient. One of the highlights is Flag Pole Hill Park, which has great trails and picnic spots, plus an incredible view of White Rock Lake. While most people rely on cars, the area has several DART bus routes that connect to the rail system.
Methodology: All neighborhoods listed are based on Dallas’ Rental Market Trends on Rent.com. Average rental data and annual change data are sourced from February 2025.
