Welcome to Austin, where the weather’s warmer, the music’s louder, and authentic Texas BBQ runs the restaurant scene. Capital of the Lone Star State, Austin is home to a high-energy music scene, a booming tech industry, and breathtaking natural beauty. Enticing as it sounds, we know it’s no secret that big city living can come with an even bigger price tag.
While finding an apartment close to all the excitement can be expensive, it is possible to work, play, and rent at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list to help you experience Austin's best without breaking the bank.
The five cheapest neighborhoods in Austin in 2025 are:
Georgian Acres
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin: $1,408/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Georgian Acres: $935/month
- Median home value in Georgian Acres: $292,500
Tucked in North Central Austin, Georgian Acres appeals to commuters seeking quick access to Downtown Austin. With a variety of apartment communities and local businesses, this neighborhood offers a cozy suburban experience.
Things to do in Georgian Acres
Georgian Acres is primarily residential, making for a quiet lifestyle. International grocery stores, taco trucks, and locally owned restaurants add flavor to everyday life, and residents enjoy proximity to easygoing bars just a short drive south.
Transportation
Georgian Acres is conveniently situated near I-35 and US-183, giving drivers direct routes to Downtown Austin, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and surrounding suburbs. For non-drivers, CapMetro buses service the area, and the Metro Rail Red Line makes stops nearby.
Heritage Hills
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin: $1,408/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Heritage Hills: $946/month
- Median home value in Heritage Hills: $402,500
Just across I-35 from Georgian Acres, Heritage Hills blends peaceful, tree-lined streets with affordable rental options in an older suburban layout. The neighborhood features mid-century homes, low-rise apartments, and a residential vibe that appeals to both long-term Austinites and newcomers alike.
Things to do in Heritage Hills
Residents enjoy Gus Garcia District Park and the Gus Garcia Recreation Center, a recreation complex that hosts athletics programs for all ages. The Walnut Creek Greenbelt is also nearby and offers a great backdrop for a walk in nature. Residents who enjoy craft brews can head over to Austin Beerworks in Sprinkle Valley for a seasonal IPA and featured food trucks.
Transportation
Heritage Hills benefits from its location between I-35 and US-183, making car commutes easy. The Metro Rail Red Line is accessible from nearby Highland Station, and local bus routes connect the area to downtown, East Austin, and the University of Texas at Austin campus.
Parker Lane
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin: $1,408/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Parker Lane: $994/month
- Median home value in Parker Lane: $321,500
Parker Lane offers an affordable gateway to Central Austin just south of the Colorado River. Its combination of apartment communities and single-family homes for rent makes it a great choice for renters seeking a low-key neighborhood close to downtown.
Things to do in Parker Lane
With Roy G. Guerrero Park right next door, outdoor lovers have access to one of the city’s most scenic spots complete with hiking trails, river access, and open fields for sports and picnics. Foodies will love the plethora of restaurants in the area, and live music venues in the neighborhood make for a fun night out.
Transportation
The CapMetro 20 and 7 bus lines provide direct service to Downtown Austin and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Residents also benefit from proximity to I-35 and SH-71.
North Lamar
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin: $1,408/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in North Lamar: $1,088/month
- Median home value in North Lamar: $297,000
North Lamar is a residential neighborhood in the northern end of Austin that offers a laid-back suburban feel. Its location along I-35 makes it ideal for commuters who work in Downtown Austin or renters who want easy access to the heart of the city.
Things to do in North Lamar
Residents of North Lamar have access to restaurants serving everything from Tex-Mex to authentic Vietnamese pho. The Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is just a short drive away and offers hiking and biking trails. For a day of shopping, residents can head to The Domain, an outdoor mall with retailers like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Dillard’s.
Transportation
CapMetro bus stations along North Lamar Boulevard connect residents to other parts of the city. For drivers, I-35 and North Lamar Boulevard connect residents to downtown.
Garrison Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Austin: $1,408/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Garrison Park: $1,146/month
- Median home value in Garrison Park: $447,000
Garrison Park offers a peaceful, suburban feel in South Austin that appeals to renters looking for affordability and space. With its mixture of ranch homes for rent and modern apartment communities, Garrison Park is a great choice for renters seeking a suburban lifestyle without being too far from the action.
Things to do in Garrison Park
The neighborhood is anchored by its namesake park, a community hub featuring a public pool, sports fields, and plenty of green space for weekend barbecues. Foodies will enjoy local favorites like Leroy and Lewis Barbecue or Cherry Creek Catfish. Spend a weekend at The Yard, an artsy mixed-use development in East Congress that houses restaurants, tap rooms, and a pickleball court.
Transportation
Garrison Park is close to several major roadways like I-35, US-290, and Loop 1, giving residents quick access to downtown and the airport. Several buses run through the area, while cyclists benefit from dedicated bike lanes.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to put down roots, 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 within a price range that works for you.
No matter the 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 September 2025 reports.
This article was originally published on June 21, 2022, by Sarah Catherine Fordham.
