Welcome to Dallas, home of the 80s hit TV show of the same name. While cowboy boots and 10-gallon hats are mostly a thing of the past, many great things remain, such as a booming economy, the globally renowned Dallas Cowboys football team, and fantastic food. It’s no secret big-city living usually comes with an even bigger housing cost, and Dallas is no exception.
While living in the heart of the excitement can be expensive, it is possible to work, play, and rent in town at a reasonable cost. We’ve compiled the list below to help you experience your best life in Dallas without breaking the bank. Let’s explore!
Lochwood

- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas: $1,402/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Lochwood: $855/month
- Median List Price in Lochwood: $607,000
Tucked away in East Dallas, Lochwood is a hidden gem for those seeking both affordability and a strong sense of community. Known for its tree-lined streets and mid-century homes, Lochwood offers peaceful living with easy access to city life. One of Lochwood's biggest draws is its close proximity to White Rock Lake. The neighborhood also features several parks, walking trails, and greenbelts.
Things to do in Lochwood, TX
If kayaking on the lake isn’t your idea of fun, White Rock Lake Park Loop Trail offers a 9.2-mile path for biking, running, or a stroll with scenic water views. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, a 66-acre park, provides a monthly calendar chock full of concerts, special events, and fun classes like candlemaking.
Pleasant Grove

- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas: $1,364/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Pleasant Grove: $1,402/month
- Median List Price in Pleasant Grove: $240,000
Pleasant Grove is a spacious, established neighborhood in southeast Dallas. A predominantly residential area, this neighborhood has everything you need for daily life. You'll find plenty of shopping centers, grocery stores, and local restaurants scattered throughout the neighborhood. One of its standout features is the proximity to the Trinity River Audubon Center, a massive nature preserve with trails for hiking and birdwatching.
Things to do in Pleasant Grove, TX
Pleasant Grove offers plenty of outdoor and community activities, from exploring the scenic trails and bird-watching at the Trinity River Audubon Center to enjoying Crawford Memorial Park’s sports fields, playgrounds, and swimming pool. The area is also known for its local dining scene, featuring Mexican favorites, like the popular huevos rancheros served at Cielito Lindo.
Riverway Estates

- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas: $1,402/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Riverway Estates: $993/month
- Median List Price in Riverway Estates: $240,000
Riverway Estates is a quiet neighborhood located about nine miles east of Downtown Dallas, near the Mesquite, TX border. The neighborhood features a variety of mid-century homes, duplexes, and apartments, offering choices for different lifestyles and budgets.
Things to do in Riverway Estates, TX
One of the major perks of living in Riverway Estates is its proximity to outdoor recreation. You are just minutes away from White Rock Lake, a popular weekend destination. For evening outings after work, explore nearby Samuell-Grand Park, which features trails, sports fields, and the historic Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre, home to Shakespeare Dallas performances. If seeing things on the big screen is more your vibe, the giant AMC Mesquite 30 is just a 10-minute drive away.
Prestonwood

- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas: $1,402/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Prestonwood: $1,128/month
- Median List Price in Prestonwood: $699,000
Prestonwood, located in North Dallas, is a highly sought-after neighborhood. Known for its upscale homes, lush parks, and excellent schools, Prestonwood also boasts a prestigious country club. Several bus routes serve the neighborhood, and it is close to the Dallas North Tollway, providing convenient access to downtown Dallas.
Things to do in Prestonwood, TX
Take in a round of golf at the Prestonwood Country Club, explore the shopping and dining options at the nearby Village on the Parkway, or grab your camera equipment and take a stroll through Bert Fields Park to capture the beautiful scenery. For even more to do, top destinations in the Dallas area are only minutes away.
Oak Cliff

- Average 1-bedroom rent in Dallas: $1,402/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Oak Cliff: $1,298/month
- Median List Price in Oak Cliff: $249,950
Situated southwest of downtown, Oak Cliff is an artsy neighborhood with a rich history and historic architecture. Oak Cliff offers cultural attractions and quaint residential areas. The neighborhood is served by DART bus and light rail services, providing convenient access to downtown Dallas.
Things to do in Oak Cliff, TX
Visit the colorful Bishop Arts District, home to over 60 independent boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries. Enjoy a show at the historic Texas Theatre, walk through Kiest Park, or enjoy biking trails at Oak Cliff Nature Preserve.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you're planning a short-term stay or looking to settle down in Dallas, TX, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search to a price range that works for you.
No matter what your budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on!
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s October 2025 reports