Glass skyscrapers gleaming under the Texas sun, highways stretching endlessly in every direction, and a skyline that signals ambition, there’s no doubt about it, Dallas is an iconic city. But for those looking to escape the ever-rising cost of city living, the surrounding suburbs offer a more affordable way to stay close to the action. Whether you want small-town charm, lakeside tranquility, or entertainment right in your backyard, the most affordable Dallas suburbs deliver.
Dallas’s housing market at a glance
Dallas’s housing costs can add up quickly, but several nearby suburbs provide more budget-friendly alternatives. These areas offer a mix of small-town charm, outdoor spaces, and easy access to the city. Before we dive into the best affordable Dallas suburbs, here’s a quick look at Dallas’s housing prices.
Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas |
$1,460 |
Average 2-bedroom rent in Dallas |
$1,935 |
|
$426,000 |
1. Mesquite
Mesquite is where Texas tradition meets modern convenience, a place where cowboy culture is alive and well.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,077
- Distance from Dallas: 14 miles east
- Drive time to Dallas: About 20 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,077, Mesquite is one of the most affordable Dallas suburbs. The Mesquite Championship Rodeo draws crowds from all over, keeping the city’s Western spirit strong. Town East Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the area, ensures you don’t have to go far for retail therapy. Mesquite strikes a balance between the past and the present, offering a taste of classic Texas alongside suburban ease.
2. Arlington
Arlington is for those who want the thrill of big attractions without the big-city price tag.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,214
- Distance from Dallas: 21 miles west
- Drive time to Dallas: About 30 minutes
At $1,214 for a 1-bedroom, Arlington is a steal considering its entertainment-packed landscape. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, dominates the skyline, while Six Flags Over Texas provides roller coaster thrills for adrenaline seekers. There’s never a dull moment in Arlington, but for those who prefer a quieter pace, the city’s many parks and green spaces are a welcome retreat.
3. Garland
Garland is where nature lovers and suburbanites find common ground.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,267
- Distance from Dallas: 17 miles northeast
- Drive time to Dallas: About 25 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,267, Garland gives you space without sacrificing convenience. Lake Ray Hubbard is a local gem, with boating, fishing, and stunning sunset views. Spring Creek Forest Preserve provides miles of scenic trails, perfect for weekend hikes. Garland isn’t just a suburb, it’s a place where the great outdoors feels like part of your backyard.
4. Red Oak
Red Oak is for those who want a little more space and a lot more quiet.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,270
- Distance from Dallas: 20 miles south
- Drive time to Dallas: About 30 minutes
With a 1-bedroom averaging $1,270, Red Oak delivers affordability with a touch of Texas charm. From historic ranch-style homes to brand-new townhomes, Red Oak is full of options. Watkins Park is a go-to for family picnics and morning jogs on scenic summer days. The town moves at a slower pace, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the constant buzz of Dallas without losing access to it.
5. Denton
Denton is where creativity, academia, and affordability intersect.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,280
- Distance from Dallas: 39 miles north
- Drive time to Dallas: About 45 minutes
At $1,280 for a 1-bedroom apartment, rent in Denton is reasonable. The University of North Texas fuels a steady stream of live music, arts and events. Beyond that, it solidifies Denton’s status as one of the best Texas college towns. Denton Square, the heart of downtown, is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and some of the best barbecue joints around, including the legendary Rooster’s Roadhouse. Denton has a personality all its own—artsy, youthful, and just the right amount of quirky.
6. Fort Worth
Fort Worth may be a city in its own right, but it’s an excellent alternative for those seeking affordability near Dallas.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,327
- Distance from Dallas: 32 miles west
- Drive time to Dallas: About 40 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,327, Fort Worth offers a mix of cowboy charm and cultural sophistication. The Fort Worth Stockyards are a living tribute to Texas’ cattle-driving past, complete with daily longhorn cattle drives. The Kimbell Art Museum brings a world-class art scene to the city. Fort Worth has its own identity—laid-back, welcoming, and proud of its Western roots.
7. Euless
Euless sits in the perfect spot—right between Dallas and Fort Worth.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,330
- Distance from Dallas: 20 miles northwest
- Drive time to Dallas: About 25 minutes
At $1,330 on average for a 1-bedroom, Euless is an affordable choice with plenty to offer. Texas Star Golf Course provides a scenic escape, while McCormick Park is a favorite for runners and dog walkers alike. Euless feels like a well-kept secret—a quiet, convenient suburb with access to friends living in Dallas cities without the traffic headaches.
8. Grand Prairie
Grand Prairie is where affordability meets family-friendly entertainment.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,394
- Distance from Dallas: 15 miles west
- Drive time to Dallas: About 20 minutes
With an average rent of $1,394 for a 1-bedroom, it’s hard to beat the value in Grand Prairie. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is a year-round oasis of slides and lazy rivers, perfect for kids (or kids at heart). The Texas Trust CU Theatre hosts big-name concerts and live shows, making it a go-to spot for entertainment. Grand Prairie is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice fun to save money.
9. Irving
Irving is a suburb that feels like an extension of Dallas—without the sky-high rents.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,416
- Distance from Dallas: 12 miles west
- Drive time to Dallas: About 20 minutes
At $1,416 on average for a 1-bedroom, Irving is an affordable option for those who want a city feel without the city chaos. The Irving Arts Center showcases a rotating collection of visual and performing arts, while the Toyota Music Factory is a hotspot for concerts and nightlife. Irving is a diverse, dynamic suburb that has something for everyone.
10. Allen
Allen is a well-rounded suburb that combines pristine nature with stellar shopping and dining.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,426
- Distance from Dallas: 26 miles north
- Drive time to Dallas: About 35 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,426, Allen’s housing costs are slightly higher than some of the other affordable Dallas suburbs on this list, but it delivers on quality of life. Allen Premium Outlets offer everything from designer brands to everyday staples, drawing shoppers from all over. Celebration Park is a community favorite, with playgrounds, walking trails, and even splash pads for hot Texas summers. Allen is a suburb with a little bit of everything, wrapped up in a tight-knit community feel.
Find the best affordable Dallas suburb for you
The most affordable Dallas suburbs offer an impressive range of options, from the lakeside escapes of Garland to the classic Texas college town charm of Denton. Whether you’re looking for high-energy entertainment in Arlington, a historic feel in Fort Worth, or a quiet retreat in Red Oak, there’s a place here to match your budget and your lifestyle. The challenge isn’t finding a great suburb—it’s deciding which one feels the most like home.
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one-bedroom rent was less than Dallas’s average rent and under 40 miles from downtown Dallas. Average rental data from Dallas rental market trends in January, 2025. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
