As the city continues to grow, finding the cheapest neighborhoods in Houston remains a top priority for renters looking to balance cost and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time renter, or just looking to grow your savings, exploring apartments in Houston can help you find a community that fits your lifestyle and budget.
In this Rent. article, we’ll explore some of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Houston, complete with neighborhood highlights and key details to help you find your perfect home.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Houston and what you can expect to pay for a one-bedroom apartment in each area.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-bedroom rent |
| Greater Greenspoint | $871 |
| Eastside | $892 |
| Spring Branch West | $914 |
| Brays Oaks | $939 |
| Northcliffe | $952 |
| North Houston | $961 |
| Southeast Houston | $969 |
| Greenspoint | $971 |
| Clear Lake | $977 |
| Southwest Houston | $984 |
| Briar Forest | $993 |
| South Belt – Ellington | $1,024 |
1. Greater Greenspoint
Average 1-bedroom rent: $871 | YoY change: 0%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,089 | YoY change: -20%
Neighborhood highlights: Business-friendly area, major transit connections
Greater Greenspoint is known for its affordability and easy access to I-45 and Beltway 8. Located near George Bush Intercontinental Airport, it’s an ideal spot for frequent travelers or those working in logistics. Many apartments in Greater Greenspoint feature spacious layouts, pools, and fitness centers, all at budget-friendly prices.
2. Eastside
Average 1-bedroom rent: $892 | YoY change: -3%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $986 | YoY change: -39%
Neighborhood highlights: Industrial charm, proximity to Port of Houston, emerging food scene
Eastside has an industrial charm mixed with growing residential appeal. Just minutes from downtown Houston, this neighborhood is perfect for renters who want short commutes without paying downtown prices. Apartments often come with skyline views and are close to local parks and cafes.
3. Spring Branch West
Average 1-bedroom rent: $914 | YoY change: -13%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,210 | YoY change: -13%
Neighborhood highlights: Close to Memorial City Mall, easy highway access, local dining options
Spring Branch West is a quiet, friendly neighborhood on the city’s west side. It’s close to Memorial City Mall and has plenty of affordable rental options. Apartments in Spring Branch West regularly include green spaces, community pools, and roomy floor plans.
4. Brays Oaks
Average 1-bedroom rent: $939 | YoY change: 8%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,180 | YoY change: 9%
Neighborhood highlights: Access to Brays Bayou trails, diverse food scene, convenient shopping
Brays Oaks sits southwest of downtown and is conveniently located near U.S. 59 and Beltway 8. The neighborhood has a mix of older, well-kept apartments and newer builds. Renters here also have easy access to local parks and trails, such as the Brays Bayou Greenway.
5. Northcliffe
Average 1-bedroom rent: $952 | YoY change: 7%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,302 | YoY change: 7%
Neighborhood highlights: Quiet suburban streets, local parks, nearby retail centers
Northcliffe is a quiet suburban neighborhood tucked away in northwest Houston. The area has a peaceful atmosphere and offers a slower pace compared to the city’s busier districts. Residents enjoy easy access to nearby retail hubs, including the Willowbrook Mall, as well as dining spots ranging from casual chain restaurants to local family-owned eateries.
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6. North Houston
Average 1-bedroom rent: $961 | YoY change: 7%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,256 | YoY change: 0%
Neighborhood highlights: Access to Beltway 8, several business parks
North Houston remains one of the city’s most affordable neighborhoods in Houston. With quick access to major highways, it’s easy to commute to other parts of Houston. Many apartments here offer amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and pet-friendly spaces.
7. Southeast Houston
Average 1-bedroom rent: $969 | YoY change: -14%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,160 | YoY change: -12%
Neighborhood highlights: Proximity to Hobby Airport, local dining spots, growing residential areas
Southeast Houston has a mix of affordability and convenience, with easy access to I-45 and the Loop. The neighborhood is home to a variety of apartment communities, many featuring spacious layouts and updated amenities. Its proximity to Hobby Airport and local parks makes it an appealing choice for renters seeking practicality and value.
8. Greenspoint
Average 1-bedroom rent: $971 | YoY change: -1%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,238 | YoY change: -5%
Neighborhood highlights: Easy access to major highways and business hubs
Greenspoint is known for its great location near Beltway 8 and I-45. The area is close to major employers and shopping centers, making it ideal for commuters. Residents love the nearby Thomas R. Wussow Park which features walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Additionally, the neighborhood has ongoing redevelopment efforts aimed at improving infrastructure, safety, and community resources, making it an increasingly appealing option for renters.
9. Clear Lake
Average 1-bedroom rent: $977 | YoY change: -9%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,259 | YoY change: -5%
Neighborhood highlights: Scenic lakeside views, NASA Space Center nearby, great outdoor recreation
Located near NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Clear Lake combines affordability with waterfront charm. The neighborhood features a mix of older, well-maintained apartments and newer developments. Renters enjoy access to walking trails, marinas, and plenty of dining options along the water like Tommy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar.
10. Southwest Houston
Average 1-bedroom rent: $984 | YoY change: -1%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,258 | YoY change: 0%
Neighborhood highlights: Cultural diversity, great food scene, convenient shopping centers
Besides its quick access to U.S. 59 and Beltway 8, Southwest Houston stands out for its amazing food scene. The neighborhood has countless international restaurants with cuisines ranging from Vietnamese pho to authentic Mexican tacos. The area is also home to popular shopping destinations, including PlazAmericas and Meyerland Plaza, providing everything from boutique finds to big-name retailers.
11. Briar Forest
Average 1-bedroom rent: $993 | YoY change: 9%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,253 | YoY change: 1%
Neighborhood highlights: Access to Terry Hershey Park, tree-lined streets, diverse dining options
Briar Forest is located on Houston’s west side. The neighborhood is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts because of its proximity to the Energy Corridor and Terry Hershey Park. Its tree-lined streets and well-maintained walking trails provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
12. South Belt – Ellington
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,024 | YoY change: 5%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,285 | YoY change: -2%
Neighborhood highlights: Proximity to Ellington Airport, easy access to I-45, suburban atmosphere
South Belt – Ellington offers affordable living in a quieter part of the city. Located near I-45 and Beltway 8, the area provides easy access to both downtown and the coast. The neighborhood has a friendly feel, with several parks and green spaces, including El Franco Lee Park, which features walking trails, fishing ponds, and sports fields.
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed on Houston’s Rental Market Trends on Rent.com. Average rental data and annual change data from Rent.com during January 2025.
