Renting in Texas: Your Practical Guide for 2025

Thinking about moving to Texas or just need a new place? The Lone Star State offers plenty of rentals, but the market moves fast. Below you’ll find solid steps to land a good deal, avoid common pitfalls, and stay within the law.

How to Find Affordable Texas Rentals

Start with online portals that let you filter by price, pet policy, and lease length. Set a max rent that fits your budget—most experts suggest spending no more than 30% of your monthly income on rent. In Texas, landlords often ask for three times the rent as your monthly income, so keep that rule in mind when you calculate what you can afford.

Don’t ignore local classifieds, community boards, or word‑of‑mouth referrals. A lot of single‑family homes and duplexes get listed on neighborhood Facebook groups before they hit the big sites. If you’re looking in Austin, Dallas, or Houston, act quickly—good units disappear within days.

When you find a place you like, be ready with a complete rental packet: recent pay stubs, a copy of your credit report, references from previous landlords, and a short cover letter that explains why you’re a reliable tenant. Having everything prepared can shave days off the approval process.

Know Your Rights as a Texas Tenant

Texas has no statewide rent‑control, which means landlords can raise rent whenever they want, as long as they give proper notice (usually 30 days). However, they can’t raise rent during a fixed‑term lease unless the lease says otherwise.

Security deposits are capped at one month’s rent. The landlord must return the deposit within 30 days after you move out, minus any documented damages. If you’re on a month‑to‑month lease, either side can end the agreement with a 30‑day written notice.

Landlords must give reasonable notice—usually 24‑hour written notice—before entering your unit, unless there’s an emergency. If a landlord repeatedly violates this rule, you can file a complaint with local housing authorities.

When signing a lease, watch for hidden fees. Some landlords charge application fees, pet fees, or “move‑in” fees. Ask for a written breakdown so you know exactly what you’re paying.

Finally, if you’re a student or a new grad, many Texas campuses have off‑campus housing offices that post vetted listings. Those listings often come with built‑in tenant protections, which can be a safer bet if you’re unfamiliar with the market.

By following these steps—budget wisely, act fast, and understand your rights—you’ll be well on your way to a smooth renting experience in Texas. Happy house hunting!