Average Rent in Dallas, TX: $1,931/mo
Fair market rent data for Dallas, TX based on 2026 HUD FMR data. The average 2-bedroom rent is $1,931/mo.
2026 Fair Market Rent
Dallas, TX Metro Area
About Rent Prices in Dallas, TX
Dallas-Fort Worth offers affordable housing relative to wages, with no state income tax boosting residents' purchasing power. The metro area continues to attract corporate relocations and job seekers, keeping the rental market active but generally affordable.
The fair market rent (FMR) in Dallas, TX represents the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental housing. This data is published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is used for various housing programs including Section 8 vouchers. As of 2026, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $1,931 per month.
Rent by Apartment Size in Dallas, TX
The Dallas Rental Market
Dallas's rental market offers good value with competitive pricing and modern apartment complexes. The DFW metroplex has extensive options from urban high-rises to suburban garden apartments. Landlords require standard income and credit qualifications. Many properties offer move-in specials and competitive amenity packages.
Neighborhoods in Dallas
Uptown, Knox-Henderson, and Oak Lawn offer walkable urban living at premium prices. Deep Ellum attracts creative types at moderate costs. Bishop Arts District and Lower Greenville provide trendy options. More affordable areas include Richardson, Garland, and Irving. Suburban areas like Frisco and Plano offer family-friendly options.
Renter's Guide to Dallas
Consider your commute - DFW traffic can be significant. DART rail provides transit options in some areas. Many complexes include washer/dryer connections or in-unit machines. Pet-friendly housing is widely available. Most leases are 12 months with standard 60-day notice periods.
Cost of Living Considerations
Dallas benefits from no state income tax, stretching your dollars further. Utilities are moderate year-round. Car ownership is essential as public transit has limited coverage. Food and entertainment costs are reasonable, with numerous free outdoor activities available.
Rental Market Trends in Dallas
Understanding recent trends helps renters time their apartment search effectively. The Dallas, TXrental market has been influenced by population migration patterns, remote work adoption, and local economic conditions. Seasonal variations typically show higher demand and prices in summer months when families prefer to move, while winter often brings more negotiating power for renters.
New apartment construction in Dallas affects supply and pricing dynamics. Areas experiencing significant development may see rent stabilization or decreases as more units come to market, while established neighborhoods with limited new construction tend to see steady price appreciation. Monitoring vacancy rates provides insight into market tightness - rates below 5% typically indicate a competitive market favoring landlords.
What Affects Rent Prices in Dallas?
- Location: Proximity to downtown, employment centers, and desirable neighborhoods significantly impacts rent. In Dallas, location can create 30-50% price variations.
- Building Quality: Newer buildings with modern amenities command premium rents. Expect to pay 15-25% more for properties built within the last 5 years.
- Transportation: Access to public transit or major highways affects desirability and rent prices. Properties within walking distance of transit often command 10-20% premiums.
- Local Economy: Job market strength and major employer presence drive rental demand. Dallas's primary employment sectors directly influence neighborhood pricing.
- Schools: Family-oriented renters pay premiums for quality school districts. Top-rated school zones can add 20-30% to comparable properties.
- Safety: Crime rates and neighborhood safety influence pricing significantly. Low-crime neighborhoods typically command meaningful premiums.
- Amenities: In-unit laundry, parking, pools, fitness centers, and other building amenities can add $100-300+ monthly to base rent.
Tips for Renting in Dallas
- •Timing: Start your search 4-6 weeks before your desired move-in date for best selection
- •Documentation: Have pay stubs, tax returns, ID, and references ready to act quickly on good units
- •Negotiation: In slower markets, negotiate move-in specials, reduced deposits, or free parking
- •Hidden Costs: Ask about utilities, parking fees, pet deposits, and application fees upfront
- •Lease Terms: Understand rent increase policies, notice requirements, and subletting rules
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas, TX Rent
What is the average rent in Dallas, TX?
The average 2-bedroom apartment rent in Dallas, TX is $1,931 per month based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Actual market rents may vary based on neighborhood, amenities, and building type. Studios average $1,582/month while 3-bedroom units average $2,431/month.
Is Dallas affordable for renters?
Affordability depends on your income and lifestyle. Financial experts recommend spending no more than 30% of gross income on housing. To comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at $1,931/month in Dallas, you would need an annual income of approximately $77,240. More affordable neighborhoods exist in outer areas of the metro.
What documentation do I need to rent in Dallas?
Most landlords require: proof of income (pay stubs or tax returns showing 2.5-3x monthly rent), government-issued photo ID, credit report authorization, rental history with references, and employment verification. Some competitive markets may require additional documentation or a guarantor if income requirements aren't met.
What is Fair Market Rent (FMR)?
Fair Market Rent is determined by HUD and represents the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental units. It's used to calculate housing assistance payments and set rent ceilings for subsidized housing programs. Actual market rents may be higher or lower depending on specific neighborhoods and property conditions.
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